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Why Do Flat Roofs Leak?

April 7, 2022

For many commercial and industrial buildings, flat roofs are a popular choice. They are typically less expensive to install than pitched roofs and can offer more useable space on the top of the building.

However, flat roofs have a reputation for being prone to leaking – but why is this? Let us explore some of the main reasons why flat roofs leak and how you can prevent them in this blog post.

In this blog post, you'll learn about:

  • What are flat roofs
  • Materials used for it
  • Why flat roofs leak
  • How to prevent leaks
  • What to do if roofs start leaking

Let's start with what are flat roofs?

What Are Flat Roofs

A flat roof is a type of roofing where the level of the roof is horizontal or nearly horizontal. It's different from the more common pitched roofs, which have an inclined surface.

Flat roofs are popular in commercial and industrial buildings as they offer more useable space on the top of the building.

Materials Used in Flat Roofs

There are a variety of materials that you can use for flat roofs, including asphalt, metal, rubber, and PVC. With its relatively low price and ease of installation, asphalt is the most commonly used material for flat roofs.

Asphalt roofs, however, are less durable and more prone to leaks than other roofing options. Metal roofs are more expensive than asphalt but are much more durable and have a longer lifespan.

Rubber roofs are also quite durable but can be susceptible to punctures and tears. PVC roofs are one of the most expensive options but are also the most durable and have a very long lifespan.

Why Flat Roofs Leak

One of the main reasons that flat roofs leak is that they are not properly installed. A poorly installed roof can cause problems with drainage and allow water to seep inside. Another reason that flat roofs leak is that they are not maintained properly.

If you do not regularly check your roof and ensure that it is free of debris, it can start to develop leaks. Finally, weather can also play a factor in why flat roofs leak.

If there is a severe storm or heavy rain, the water can easily seep into the cracks and crevices of the roof, causing leaks.

How to Prevent Flat Roofs Leak

There are a few things you can do to prevent your flat roof from leaking.

  • Make sure that it is installed correctly by a professional roofing contractor.
  • Ensure that your roof is regularly inspected and cleaned of any debris.
  • Be prepared for severe weather by ensuring that your roof is in good condition and there aren't any cracks or holes from which water can enter.

What to Do If Roofs Start Leaking

If your flat roof starts leaking, it is important to act quickly. As a starting point, determine the source of the leak and repair it if possible. If you are unable to repair the leak yourself, contact a professional roofing contractor.

They will be able to assess the damage and make the necessary repairs. In some cases, the entire roof will need to be replaced. However, if caught early enough, a professional can usually repair a leaking flat roof without too much hassle.

Conclusion

Basically, flat roofs leak due to improper installation, lack of maintenance, and weather conditions.

You can prevent leaks by making sure your roof is installed correctly and by regularly inspecting and cleaning it. If your roof does start leaking, try to determine the source of the leak and repair it if possible.

To get more information and a free quote for your leaking roof, contact us at (410) 844-3111 or email us at info@tqrmaryland.com.

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