Flat Roof Leaking Problems

And on occasion a hard driving rain with whipping wind will cause roof vents to leak water.

Flat roof leaking problems.

Metal flashing that runs alongside a wall loosens up or the caulking gives and a major leak starts. But some roof air vents sit fairly flat to the roof with a mushroom style hood and unprotected sides. Leaks and moisture another common problem with flat roofs is leaks. Just like any roof a flat roof will develop leaks but since it s flat the water doesn t have anywhere to go but straight down.

Leaks and moisture probably the most common problems with flat roofs leaks and lingering moisture are issues that can be dealt with effectively as long as you stay on top of them. It is the first place to troubleshoot for leaks on a roof. All roof systems performance is compromised when new equipment and penetrations are added to an existing roof unless proper precautions are taken. The problem with finding a leak in a flat roof that sets it apart from finding one in a sloped roof is that the water can run in any direction.

In addition to leaks this can cause premature problems with the roof membrane and may void the guarantee limit traffic and conduct cursory inspections after tradespeople have been on the roof. However in my own experience the problems with leaking flat roofs are usually as a result of either poor workmanship installing the roof membrane poor maintenance by the building owner or as a result of age. But even if you have to pay it s better than finding leaks after the damage is done. If your ceiling has a plastic vapor barrier between the drywall and the attic insulation push the insulation aside and look for flow stains on the plastic often water runs to openings in the vapor barrier such as at ceiling light fixtures.

Flat roofs aren t actually flat. Flat roofs are known as being problematic with many suffering leaks. It s a good idea to inspect your roof regularly. So all you need to do is simply follow it up to its source.

But you can avoid the bulk of these problems with regular maintenance. Roof leveling can resolve minor drainage issues but more serious issues of ponding require changes to the underlying roof structure itself. First of all we should clear up a common misconception. Flashing is the number one cause of leaks on flat roofs.

Many contractors offer free inspections. Take a screwdriver or flat bar and see if the caulking that seals the top of the metal flashing is still holding. Some roof leaks are tough to locate. With a traditional sloped roof a leak can be found quite easily as water will flow in a downward motion.

Sometimes the water shows up at a ceiling spot distant from the leak. Here are a few of the most common and easy to recognize signs of roof problems. But since it s a flat roof the water doesn t have anywhere to go but straight down.