Regular maintenance is the key to preserving the reliability of any flat roofing system. You should get your roof inspected regularly, usually 2 times a year. The top should be inspected bi-yearly: before and after the winter season. A professional should do the detailed inspection. You should do a monthly self-inspection and know how to spot roofing issues. Flat roofs are pretty reliable, but still, they can get damaged by weather conditions and several things. Spotting the issue quickly can save some money on flat roof repairs.
Here are a few things that you can check while self-inspection
Standing/Ponding Water
Standing/Ponding water is unwanted water on the flat roof that does not evaporate within 2 days. Ponding water accelerates the aging of many materials. Ponding water produces algae and enhances the power of already intense UV rays that are harmful to roof membranes. If there is a standing water issue, you should contact your roofing contractor to check the problem. Leaving the problem for a longer time can lead to much bigger problems.
Blistering
If you self-inspect your flat roof, look for areas that look like they’ve begun to blister. Blistering occurs when asphalt shingles lose their adhesion, creating pockets that result in an uneven roof surface. It is caused by the liquid that gets trapped in your roof membrane. If you neglect the issue, you are compromising the effectiveness of the flat roofing system. In the long run, it can cause roof leaks and other water damage issues to the roof.
Cracking
There are many reasons for cracking in the roofing system. Your building might be more vulnerable to direct sunlight and the effects of UV rays. It can also be possible because of poor quality material used. If you leave your roof to bear the weight of snow for a long time, it can also be the cause of material cracking. It’s always better to fix this issue as soon as possible to avoid roof leaks.
Snow Build-ups
Snow build-ups are a common problem for flat roofing systems. If you leave these buildups for a long time, the weight of excess snow can cause problems with the roofing system, or a complete roof collapse is possible. If the snow melts on the roof and there is no way for water to drain, then you can face the ponding water issue. The best way is to hire professionals to clean the snow from the roof regularly. Don’t try to do it yourself if you don’t have previous experience, as it can be risky and cause serious injuries. There are things best left to the professionals.
Loose bolts
These are minimal but hard-to-spot issues that could become a severe problem for your flat roofing system. They anchor the flat roof on commercial or residential buildings; if they are loose or missing, your roof is prone to wind damage. For different types of flat roofs, there are specific blots/fasteners that the manufacturer recommends. Always follow manufacturer instructions to avoid any problems during warranty claims.
In conclusion, the best was a property manager to maintain your roofing system to do regular checks and maintenance, and if you spot a problem, get it fixed as soon as possible. If you have any questions, you can ask your roofing contractor during the inspection.