Flat roofs are a popular choice for many properties. However, knowing how to correctly maintain them is vital to ensure they stand the test of time. Not to mention, this can also prevent you from needing to fork out for repairs down the line. In this blog, we share our top tips to help you keep your flat roof in excellent condition.
1. Regular Inspections
Inspect your flat roof at least twice a year, ideally in spring and autumn. Look for signs of wear and tear, such as cracks, blisters, or pooling water. Spotting issues early can prevent them from escalating into more significant problems.
2. Keep Your Flat Roof Clean
Debris such as leaves, branches, and dirt can easily accumulate on flat roofs. Unfortunately, if they’re left, this can lead to blocked drains and even cause water pooling. So, be sure to regularly sweep or clear away debris. This can help maintain proper water flow and prevent damage to the roof membrane.
3. Schedule Professional Maintenance
While regular DIY maintenance is important, having a professional roofer inspect your flat roof can uncover hidden issues. At Mark Watts & Sons, we are experts at inspecting and maintaining roofs of any kind. What’s more, with 40 years of experience, we can provide expert repairs and have the ability to address problems effectively. Please get in touch with us today to schedule an appointment.
4. Check & Maintain Drainage
Flat roofs rely heavily on having an effective drainage system to channel water away. For this reason, it’s important to inspect your drains, gutters, and downpipes regularly to ensure they are free from blockages. You can also consider installing leaf guards to reduce the chances of clogs occurring.
5. Don’t Let Water Pool On A Flat Roof
If left to accumulate, pools and puddles of water can be detrimental to your flat roof. This is because they can weaken the roof structure and cause leaks. To make matters worse, this can damage the safety and integrity of your home. So, should you notice water is pooling on your roof, be sure to address it promptly and contact a professional to carry out an inspection.
6. Inspect Flashings & Seals
Flashings and seals around vents, chimneys, and skylights are vulnerable points on a flat roof. Therefore, you should check they are intact and securely attached bi-monthly to prevent water infiltration. You should also reapply sealant or replace damaged flashings as needed.
7. Remove Moss & Plant Growth
Should you notice any moss or plant growth on your flat roof, be sure to remove it fast. This is because plants can damage the membrane and obstruct proper drainage. If plants continue to sprout, applying a roof-safe moss killer can help to prevent them growing back.
Contact Us For Flat Roof Repair & Installation
In addition to repairing and replacing flat roofs, we also offer a professional inspection service to ensure your roof is in tip top condition. If you’d like to find out more, please contact our experienced team today. We look forward to hearing from you.