What are the most common issues with flat commercial roofs?
There are several reasons that flat commercial roofs are usually used for industrial buildings, the main one being that a sloped roof would require a ridiculously high peak, due to the size of the premises.
Whilst flat commercial roofs are the most sensible option for large commercial properties, they do frequently experience problems.
In this blog, we’ll discuss the most common issues with flat commercial roofs, along with the best ways to improve their life expectancy.
Leaking flat commercial roofs
There can be many reasons for leaks on flat commercial roofs. These include:
- Poorly installed roof membranes
- Poorly installed flashing
- Punctures due to impact or people walking on the roof
- Lack of maintenance (e.g. blocked gutters)
- Damage to fascias and soffits
The best solution to a leaking flat commercial roof is to contact experienced commercial roofing contractors for a site survey. Here at NWIR, we can perform Electronic Leak Detection, which uses state-of-the-art technology to detect and locate leaks in flat commercial roofs with an accuracy of millimetres.
Lack of regular commercial roof maintenance
As we all know, prevention is better than cure. Failing to have your commercial roof inspected and maintained regularly by a commercial roofing contractor means that minor problems can quickly turn into larger and more expensive ones.
Ponding water on flat commercial roofs
‘Ponding water’ is water that sits on your roof for an extended period. It occurs because flat commercial roofs do not drain water as efficiently as their pitched counterparts.
Whilst ponding water is not an immediate threat to your commercial building, if it is allowed to persist, the membrane of your roof will gradually be worn away.
Over time, ponding water can lead to leaks, ultimately compromising the structural integrity of your building.
Flat commercial roof punctures
Punctures are a common problem with flat commercial roofs. Foot traffic by tradespeople, impact from debris and equipment on the roof can all easily cause punctures.
No one should ever set foot on your roof unless they are properly trained to do so. Contact expert commercial roofing contractors, such as ourselves at NWIR, for any roofing work to avoid punctures in your roof’s membrane.
Erosion of flat commercial roofs
Surface erosion and blistering are common problems with flat commercial roofs. Whilst minor blisters on your roof can sometimes be left, if larger ones are not repaired swiftly, they may lead to bigger issues.
Get in touch with experienced commercial roofing contractors
If you are experiencing any of the problems listed above with your flat commercial roof, they should be addressed as soon as possible.
NWIR are leading commercial roofing contractors with over 100 years of experience in maintaining, repairing, and replacing flat commercial roofs.
Give us a call today on 0800 046 1500 or send us a message using our online contact form and we’ll get back to you as soon as possible.