How to Maintain Your Flat Roof

Flat roofs have a unique appeal, and they can be stunning in a modern home, contributing to a sleek, sophisticated look. They are also popular with those who enjoy relaxing with friends and family outdoors; these roofs can easily facilitate an outdoor lounge or a gorgeous rooftop garden. When it comes to maintenance, however, a flat roof can be a challenge.

Why Flat Roof Maintenance Matters

It’s essential to keep up with routine maintenance of your flat roof, because this type of roof is susceptible to damage than its sloped counterparts. Flat roofs are more exposed to UV rays than sloped roofs, and they don’t shed water as easily.  UV rays and extreme temperatures can cause roof materials to deteriorate. Excess water does that too, but it also adds weight to the roof, putting stress on the framework of the house, which can negatively impact its structural integrity. Fortunately, with the right maintenance, you can keep your flat roof in top condition and even increase its lifespan.

Maintaining a Flat Roof: Flat Roof Maintenance Tips

There are certain things you can do to maintain your roof on your own, and other maintenance chores that are better left to the professionals. As a homeowner, prioritize keeping the roof clean, removing fallen branches, piles of leaves, and other debris regularly. Any debris building up on your roof can cause stress by adding weight, and it can also clog the roof’s drainage system, leading to “ponding”, a buildup of water on the roof. Ponding can encourage algae growth, lead to deterioration of the roof’s membrane, and reduce the roof’s lifespan. While you are cleaning the roof, look for standing water or any signs of leaks or clogs. Keep your gutters and downspouts clean, too, to prevent water from backing up onto the roof. Check the flashing, too, to make sure it’s not damaged or worn. It’s also wise to enlist the help of a roofing professional, who can help maintain your flat roof in the following ways:

• Seasonal Inspections: Yes, you should be regularly inspecting your roof, but an extra pair of eyes is helpful, especially when those eyes belong to an expert. At least twice a year, and more often if a heavy storm hits, have a roofing contractor give your roof a solid onceover. This is a good way to detect potential problems early, before they become major issues.
• Checking flashing: This should be done regularly, and really, as often as possible. The flashing, the metal or rubber around vents and other leak-prone areas, is your roof’s first line of defense. When it’s damaged or comes loose, your home is at risk of water damage.
• Repairing Minor Issues: When problems like cracks, punctures, leaks, or other types of wear are found during an inspection, your roofing contractor can
• Recoating: A flat roof should be recoated every two years, to make it more durable and increase its lifespan, reducing the risk of leaks and other types of damage. Having this professionally done can ensure that the job is done correctly.

Signs You Need Flat Roof Repair

If your roof has begun to leak, you know it needs repair. However, there are more subtle signs, too. If your flashing is damaged, it requires prompt repair, to prevent water damage. If there are water spots on your ceilings, or, worse, mold inside your home, these are clear indications that your roof needs to be repaired.

When to Consider Flat Roof Replacement

Even with the best maintenance, roofs wear out eventually. So, how do you know when your flat roof needs to be replaced? Typically, flat roofs last anywhere from 10 to 30 years. If your roof is reaching the upper end of that range, replacing it is probably a good idea. If your roof has sustained significant damage, it’s best to replace it instead of continually repairing it. In the long run, this is a good investment, particularly because a new roof will be more energy efficient and is likely to be easier to maintain.

Trust the Flat Roof Contractors at ANC Roofing for Residential Flat Roof Maintenance or Repair

No matter the slope of your roof, ANC Roofing, Inc has the expertise to offer you the very highest quality roof maintenance, repair, or replacement. For 40 years, we’ve been serving the Greater Orlando and coastal areas, offering prompt service, accurate diagnosis, clear explanations of the available options, and fair prices, making us the best value in Central Florida. The service we would expect for our own homes is what we strive to deliver to each of our customers, and that’s earned us a reputation for professional installation, quality materials, and exceptional customer service. Our highly-skilled team uses state of the art tools to handle every roofing need, large or small, our industry-best warranties are the longest of any company in Central Florida, and our energy efficient roofing options that save our customers money. Whenever you need roofing services of any kind, reach out to us through our website for more information about all we have to offer.