Despite its aesthetic appeal and energy efficiency, a flat roof is like any other feature of your property - you have to maintain and take care of it properly. Otherwise, small problems can turn into larger issues that cost a lot of money.
If you want to protect your flat roof, T&G Roofing is here to guide you. With these tips, you can extend the lifespan of your roof and protect it from everyday wear and tear.
Tips for Maintaining and Protecting Your Flat Roof
Inspect and Clean Your Gutters Regularly
Your flat roof system should have at least one drain. Windswept debris can block drains and cause pooling or ponding, no matter the time of year.
About once a year, remove any leaves, twigs, or branches to ensure water can easily flow away instead of staying on the roof.
Seal Your Roof with a Waterproof Coating
Every flat roof needs some type of waterproof coating - especially if it’s prone to poor drainage. To avoid mold or leaks, you should choose a waterproof sealant that protects your roof.
However, it can be complicated to apply a sealant. You should clean the roof to remove any debris or dirt, so it doesn’t mix with the sealant. The roof should also be dry before you apply anything.
Additionally, you may want to hire a professional to apply the waterproof coating to ensure it’s applied properly.
Don’t Stand on the Roof
Even if you have a flat roof, you should always be cautious when standing or walking on it. By standing on the roof, you could potentially damage the material and cause splitting or leaking, and put yourself in danger.
If you need to clean or maintain your roof, contact a professional with experience in flat roof maintenance.
Schedule Regular Roof Inspections
Small problems can have huge consequences if you have a flat roof. Typically, roofing professionals recommend frequent roofing inspections - preferably once in the summer, and once in the winter.
Take Care of Cracks Immediately
While some cracks are inevitable, always repair small fissures and cracks right away. You should look for cracks around any raised ridges, which appear on flat roofs due to water exposure.
If your roof has any large cracks, immediately enlist the help of a roofing professional.
Prune Surrounding Foliage
Some buildings are positioned close to trees and other types of foliage, which increases the likelihood of debris falling on the roof when wind or thunderstorms strike.
You should make sure surrounding trees are cut and trimmed to lower the number of times you need to remove leaves or twigs.
When you cut trees or foliage, aim for at least a one-meter clearance. By doing this, you can prevent the risk of larger branches falling on the roof or causing major damage.
Contact the Flat Roof Experts
Are you in need of a flat roof repair or replacement? At T&G Roofing, we take pride in our high-quality work and experienced team of roofers. For more information, schedule your consultation today!