On the face of it a flat roof should be easier to maintain than a pitched one. By its very nature it is easier to get at and easier to work on. That tempts some homeowners to handle the upkeep themselves, so here are some tips for anyone inclined to do so.
General care for flat roofs
Know what is underneath
Flat roofs can be weaker than they look, and what lies beneath the surface matters. A concrete slab will keep you from falling through the ceiling. A timber frame may not carry your weight.
Do not use the roof for storage
Some people and small businesses store things on a flat roof. Avoid it unless you know how much load the structure can take. The air-conditioning units you see from hotel windows were installed by professionals, and other buildings may be built very differently.
Identify the surface material
The surface may be felt, bitumen with gravel, or fibreglass. If it is corrugated or translucent, check whether the material is durable or only looks good. The material decides how much load the roof can take and which sealant or repair product to use.
On older properties the roof may be corrugated iron. You can recognise it by the sound of the rain. It is predictable, but it is old and cheap, so think about replacing it. Our flat roofing service covers replacement as well as repair.
Stop water pooling
A flat roof should be even, with no dips, but sloped slightly so water runs to a gutter and downpipe. Standing water adds weight, raises the risk of leaks and collects dirt.
Repair splits and cracks straight away
Even a small opening lets rain in, and that can cause staining and rot inside the house. If you find one, book a roof repair before it gets worse.
Check where the roof meets the house
Sealants at this junction can shrink, or may have been poorly applied in the first place. It is a common weak point.
Look for bubbles
A sound flat roof lies flat against its base. A bubble means there is an air pocket and the covering has not bonded properly. That leaves an unsupported area which can be damaged by weight or, depending on the material, cracked as it shrinks in the sun.
Get it looked at professionally
The most important maintenance step is a professional inspection that picks up existing problems and ones that are developing. DIY work can be satisfying, but it can also lead to long-term issues. To talk about your flat roof, contact H Roofing.