Flat roofing systems rely on expert installation to perform properly and not develop costly leaks. This is not a job for DIYers or the maintenance crew. The latest versions of flat roofing work well if they are installed to manufacturer’s specifications. There is no room for cutting corners or delaying maintenance. When a flat roof on a commercial building develops leaks, merchandise can be ruined and valued tenants can move out. This is costly to the building owner.
Problems With Flat Roofs
Flat roofing in Omaha can be found in commercial buildings, apartment buildings, and even homes. Flat roofs do not have the steep pitch that other roofs have so there has to be a system to drain rainfall off the roofs. Many “flat roofs” do have a pitch to help drain water to drainage openings and pipes on one side of the building. If these drainage mechanisms get plugged, the water backs up and sits on the roofing where it can degrade the materials and lead to leaks.
Other buildings have flat roofs with drainage on more than one side. Flat and level are important. If the roof has dips and valleys, water will collect and cause damage. How do these problems happen? Poor construction, poor work applying the roofing system, or time and wear all contribute to this serious problem. Some flat roofs are too accessible to unauthorized people climbing on them to party or hang out. People walking on a flat roof will lead to damage and uneven surfaces.
When the building owner chooses to have multiple layers of roofing build up instead of removing the old material to re-roof a building, the weight can be a factor in destabilizing a building. The old material’s defects and wear can be telegraphed to the new roof causing it to fail. Flat roofs need maintenance and inspections to keep them viable for longer periods of time. Some flat roofs require a dressing to be applied every year.
New Flat Roofs
If the building owner wants their building to be protected and have no roof leaks, they must replace aging roofs. Flat roofs take a lot of punishment and suffer from sun and water damage. When they are replaced, it is important to use professional flat roofing in Omaha contractors. Finding a roofing contractor with a large enough crew to handle large commercial building roofs is important. Contact Lastime Exteriors for Roofing information.