Flat Roof Leaking Problems

First of all we should clear up a common misconception.

Flat roof leaking problems.

Sometimes the water shows up at a ceiling spot distant from the leak. 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. So all you need to do is simply follow it up to its source. It is the first place to troubleshoot for leaks on a roof.

A leak in a flat roof can lead to eventual collapse and tons of property damage if you re not careful. Here are a few of the most common and easy to recognize signs of roof problems. Metal flashing that runs alongside a wall loosens up or the caulking gives and a major leak starts. Flat roofs are known as being problematic with many suffering leaks.

But since it s a flat roof the water doesn t have anywhere to go but straight down. Take a screwdriver or flat bar and see if the caulking that seals the top of the metal flashing is still holding. A small leak can go undetected for years causing huge damage before you notice anything. Leaks and moisture another common problem with flat roofs is leaks.

Many contractors offer free inspections. But even if you have to pay it s better than finding leaks after the damage is done. And on occasion a hard driving rain with whipping wind will cause roof vents to leak water. 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. All roof systems performance is compromised when new equipment and penetrations are added to an existing roof unless proper precautions are taken. 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. But you can avoid the bulk of these problems with regular maintenance.

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. Flashing is the number one cause of leaks on flat roofs. 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.

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. But some roof air vents sit fairly flat to the roof with a mushroom style hood and unprotected sides. If your roof vent leaks during heavy rain the rain may be blowing up under the hood and into the vent.