Flat roofs come with many advantages over pitched roofs:
Easier to access for maintenance thus easy to repair and durable.
The ability to be converted into a green roof or usable area.
Usable utility space for example air con units, hot water storage ect.
Flat roofs also come with their own set of problems, some of which can occur when systems are installed incorrectly or when the types of materials used are inadequate. Others arise over time when your system reaches the end of its lifespan. In this blog we will be going over some of the common signs that we look for during a site inspection that may indicate an immanent need to replace your roofing system.
Excessive Water Ponding or Pooling
Water "ponding" or "pooling" arises when there is no substantial fall in a substrate or inadequate drainage thus not allowing water to escape, this issue causes water to pool or pond on top of the installed membrane, hence the term water ponding.
Large and prolonged pools of water (generally sitting for longer then 48 hours after rainfall) can cause a plethora of issues to your structure. Frequent scenes experienced regularly by our team include deterioration to the system caused by the sitting water, increase in mosquitoes due to stagnant water, vegetation growth which can potentially penetrate the system and sagging structures caused by larger and heavier pools of water.
If left untreated a bad case of water pooling can substantially shorten the life of your structure and can lead to some very expensive repairs. The good news is our team can easily identify structural causes of water pooling and address the issue using techniques such as screed and material build ups as well as drainage installation.
Rips, Tears and damaged seams
Over long periods of time a waterproofing system can naturally weather and deteriorate, the type of
membrane used and the environmental climate are big factors in this process.
Sheet membranes may rip or tear due to damage caused by unexpected or careless traffic, unchecked growth of fauna and flora and even unaccounted structural movement due to natural occurrences and excessive thermal expansion.
Liquid membranes can be more prone to cracks appearing in the substrate years after application whilst also vulnerable to suffer damage in similar ways to sheet membranes.
The best way to ensure long jeopardy of your system is by ensuring your waterproofing system is professionally designed and installed by a licensed waterproofer to Australian standards and that critical factors such as movement joints and membrane types are factored into the design. Routine inspections, cleaning and maintenance of your system are also important factors in ensuring your system remains watertight way past its warranty.
Deteriorated Flashings and Terminations
Flashings and terminations are essentially the protection to the end or "termination" of your membrane and act as a shield in preventing the elements entering your system via rain, wind and
other extreme weathers.
Over time flashings can deteriorate and become loose, sealants used in these areas can require reapplication, especially in older systems. Yearly inspections should occur to these areas and if the maintenance is not addressed the damage tends to progress due to the elements working their way through the system seal and making matters worse.
Problems with flashings can be exacerbated due to poor decision making in the selection of your system termination by unqualified and inexperienced waterproofers, particularly in sheet membranes, a termination done incorrectly or impractically can wipe years off of your systems life span.
If you see this type of damage in your old system its probably time to give us a call!
Is It Time To Give Us a Call?
If you have a leaky roof or notice any of the issues described above don't hesitate to give us a call, some newer systems may be salvageable if you act fast. Keep in mind that most problems are avoidable with proper design and professionally installed systems coupled with regular inspections.
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