Flat roofs don’t shed water as quickly as pitched roofs—and they don’t shed snow at all. This makes them more susceptible to leaks. In fact, many insurers are averse to ensuring flat roof properties due to concerns over their durability.
This doesn’t mean that flat roofs can’t last as long as other roof types. If you maintain your roof properly and regularly, it can certainly stand the test of time without the need for frequent repairs. Here are some valuable flat roof maintenance tips to get you started.
Conduct Regular Inspections
You should make a habit of inspecting your flat roof every few months for the following signs of damage:
- Holes
- Blisters
- Tears
- Rust and pitting if it’s a metal roof
- Loose seam if it’s an asphalt-roll roof
- Flashing edges (ensure water can’t seep in under it.)
Cut Overhanging Tree Branches
Trim all overhanging tree branches, allowing 1-meter clearance. This helps to protect your flat roof from blockage and damage from fallen leaves and branches.
While you’re at it, don’t forget to remove any unwanted growth on the roof itself. It’s worth noting that the presence of vegetation or moss on your roof normally indicates waterlogging on the roof, which will eventually result in internal leakage.
Invest in Reflective Roofing
If you decide to replace your flat roof, it’s advisable to go for a reflective roof product. This is especially important if you in live a warm-climate region.
Reflective roofing products can lower roof surface temperatures by as much as 100°F. This can consequently reduce your cooling bills by as much as 50 percent.
Carry Out Roof Repairs
Once you’re done inspecting your roof, you should take note of defects and any affected areas. Then consult a professional roofing contractor experienced in flat roof repair in Toronto for the equipment and materials you’ll need to carry out the repairs effectively.
You want to carry out all repairs at once to avoid climbing up and down the ladder over and over again or repeated walking across the somewhat weakened roof.
Ensure Your Flat Roof
We’ve seen that many insurance providers avoid insuring flat roof properties. These providers consider flats roofs to be an insurance risk as they’re believed to make a property more susceptible to weather damage.
Besides, flat roots are also demanding when it comes to maintenance. Insurers also think that they are an easy target for thieves as they are easier to access.
This doesn’t mean that you can’t insure your home. You can take advantage of specialist insurance providers to cover your flat roof home and have peace of mind that you won’t incur huge expenses when your home gets damaged.
In Conclusion
Flat roofs require more attention than pitched roofs, but they could be your best option depending on your situation. In that case, you should implement these flat roof maintenance tips to ensure your roof survives as long as possible before replacement is necessary.
