When you own any sort of property, it is a big responsibility. Any property owner will tell you that the undeniable truth is that just when it feels like everything is going smoothly, something will inevitably break down and require repairs.

The secret to avoiding this? Being proactive in your maintenance efforts! One of the best places to practice having a regular maintenance routine is on your flat roof. Why? Here are just a few reasons:

• Avoid expensive repairs 💸
• Improve energy efficiency ⚡
• Catch potential problems quickly 👓
• Avoid water damage to your entire building 💧

Today, we’ll be talking all about flat roof maintenance and what makes it so important. After all, many property owners are used to sloped roofs, which can look and function very differently. We’ll help you identify signs of damage and learn about the expected lifespan of your roof.

Ready to get started? Let’s dive in!

5 TYPES OF FLAT ROOFS

Before you learn how to properly maintain your roof, it is important to understand exactly what your roof IS.

Different roofing styles come with individual pros and cons, as well as varying life spans. Knowing what style of flat roof you have will help you to tailor your maintenance to the needs of your roof.

Today, we’ll be learning about the five main types of flat roofing systems and the benefits and challenges that come with each one.

SIGNS YOU NEED A ROOF REPAIR

• Your Roof Is Relatively New – While the life expectancy of a roof will vary widely depending on the materials chosen if a roof is still within its expected lifespan, it is a good candidate for roof repairs.
• Minor Damage – Things like dents, cracks, or missing shingles can indicate a larger problem. However, if the roof deck is intact and this is a one-off issue caused by extreme weather, you will likely be able to repair just the damaged area.
• Small Leaks – Roof leaks can indicate a large problem, but often they can be traced back to a specific area and issue that can be solved with a simple repair.

SIGNS YOU NEED A ROOF REPLACEMENT

• Reoccurring Roof Leaks – While a single roof leak may not be cause for major concern, if roof leaks are a reoccurring problem in your life, you may need a new roof.
• Damaged Roof Deck – A roof deck is the foundational layer of your roof. When it becomes damaged from water damage, not only can it no longer effectively protect your home, but it also becomes at risk of collapse.
• Age – All roofs have a life expectancy that changes depending on the materials that you choose. If you are dealing with roofing issues and your roof is on the older side, it may be time to think about a roof replacement.

ROOF LIFE EXPECTANCY BY MATERIAL

ASPHALT SHINGLES

We’re going to take a guess and say that your roof has asphalt shingles on it. Or if it doesn’t, then you’ve lived in a home that does at some point in your life. Asphalt shingles are the most popular roofing material on the market and are known for their affordability and versatility.

Despite all that, they also have one of the shortest lifespans on this list. On average, asphalt shingles only last for 15-20 years.

1) POOLING WATER

By far, the most common indicator of a problem with your flat roofing system is pooling water. Of course, it’s natural to experience some pooling after a large rainstorm or as snow is melting. However, if you are finding the same puddles there 24 hours later, you may want to contact your local contractor. This could be a sign that something is wrong with your roof and that it is holding on to moisture.

2) RIPS OR TEARS

While it may sound obvious if you are finding rips, tears, or punctures in your roof membrane, it is time to call in the pros. In some cases, you may be able to repair this with a simple patch, but severe damage may call for a full roof replacement.

3) ROOF LEAKS

Is your ceiling leaking? You’re likely looking at a problem with your flat roof. It can be difficult to identify the source of a flat roof leak, so we always recommend calling in a professional to do a thorough examination of your roof.

4) DAMAGED FLASHING

Roof flashing is an important part of any roof. Made of thin sheets of metal, it is designed to offer extra protection to areas of your roof that are vulnerable to water damage. Therefore, when the flashing is damaged, your entire building is at risk of water exposure.

Flashing damage can present in several different ways. Older flashing can sometimes rust and corrode. Other times, you may simply notice that the flashing has become detached. Either way, it is crucial that you replace your flashing as soon as possible in order to protect the health of your roof.

GET THE PROFESSIONAL HELP YOU NEED!

Not sure where to start when it comes to roof maintenance? Let Anchor Point Roofing point you in the right direction! As local roofing experts, we can help you select a flat roofing material that is right for you and assist you in learning how to properly care for it. Contact us today to receive a free quote for your roofing project!