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Chicago Commercial Flat Roof: Feeling Squishy? Water Trapped Under Membrane!

July 31, 2025

Chicago Commercial Flat Roof: Feeling Squishy? Water Trapped Under Membrane!

That unsettling squishy feeling underfoot on your Chicago commercial flat roof is a major red flag. It almost certainly indicates that water has become trapped beneath the roofing membrane. This isn't just a minor inconvenience; it's a serious issue that can lead to significant damage to your commercial property.

How does water get trapped? Often, it's a result of:

Leaks: Even small breaches in the membrane, seams, or flashings can allow water to seep in.

Poor Drainage: Insufficient slope or clogged drains can lead to ponding water that eventually finds its way under the surface.

Condensation: In some cases, temperature differences can cause condensation to form beneath the membrane.

Once trapped, this water can cause a host of problems, including:

Insulation Damage: Wet insulation loses its R-value, leading to higher energy bills.

Membrane Degradation: Trapped moisture can accelerate the breakdown of the roofing membrane.

Mold and Mildew Growth: The damp, dark environment is ideal for unhealthy microbial growth.

Structural Weakening: Prolonged exposure to moisture can rot the roof deck and compromise the building's structural integrity.

At Anchor Point Roofing, we specialize in addressing these critical commercial roofing issues in Chicago. Our process for dealing with trapped water under the membrane is designed for effective and lasting repair:

Careful Assessment: We thoroughly inspect your roof to pinpoint the areas with trapped water and identify the likely source of the moisture intrusion.

Strategic Membrane Cut: In the affected areas, we will carefully cut the existing membrane to drain the trapped water completely.

Drying and Preparation: We ensure the underlying layers are properly dried before proceeding.

New Membrane Installation: We then install new membrane sections that will seamlessly match the existing roofing system, whether it's smooth modified bitumen, granulated modified bitumen, or TPO. Our goal is to create a watertight and durable repair that prevents future water intrusion.

Don't let trapped water compromise the integrity of your Chicago commercial flat roof. Contact Anchor Point Roofing today for expert commercial roofing solutions and Chicago roof repair.

Location: Chicago, IL

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