Why is My Chicago Commercial Roof Leaking Around the Scupper?

If you're noticing leaks inside your Chicago commercial building, especially concentrated near the edges or walls where water is supposed to drain, a primary suspect is often the scupper. Scuppers are crucial drainage points on flat roofs, designed to direct rainwater off the roof and prevent ponding. However, they are also one of the most vulnerable areas for leaks on a commercial flat roof.

Leaks around scuppers typically occur due to:

Openings in the Membrane: The most common issue is when the roofing membrane, whether it's TPO, modified bitumen, or EPDM, pulls away, cracks, or develops openings right around the scupper's edges. This creates a direct pathway for water to seep into your building.

Failed Flashing or Seals: The flashing materials or sealants connecting the scupper to the roof membrane can deteriorate over time due to UV exposure, extreme Chicago weather (freeze-thaw cycles), or poor initial installation.

Water Ponding: If the roof doesn't have proper slope or the scupper gets clogged, water can pond around it, putting constant pressure on even small imperfections and forcing its way through.

Any of these issues can lead to significant interior water damage, saturated insulation, and potential structural problems for your commercial property.

At Anchor Point Roofing, we specialize in expert commercial roofing services and Chicago roof repairs. We understand that properly functioning drainage is paramount to a leak-free flat roof. When you contact us about leaks near a scupper:

Our experienced team will conduct a thorough inspection to accurately diagnose the cause of the leak, assessing the condition of the scupper, its flashing, and the surrounding membrane.

We then meticulously remove any damaged or open membrane sections around the scupper.

We'll prepare the area to ensure it's clean, dry, and ready for a robust new seal.

Finally, we will install new membrane that seamlessly matches your existing commercial flat roof system, whether it's TPO, granulated, or smooth modified bitumen membrane. Our goal is to create a durable, watertight seal that effectively channels water away from your building. For smooth modified bitumen, we also apply a protective aluminum coating for enhanced durability and UV resistance.

Don't let scupper-related leaks compromise your Chicago commercial property. Anchor Point Roofing provides reliable, long-lasting Chicago roof repairs to protect your investment. Contact us today for a professional inspection and expert service.

Location: Chicago, IL