Flat roofs have been an obvious choice on commercial buildings for years. Today, flat roofs are preferred by many homeowners for their residential properties as well. The popularity of these roofing systems has constantly been increasing. If you want to have a flat roof installed on your home or business, you must know that a flat roof requires good care. To ensure that your flat roof system continues to function at a high level, you need to do proper flat roof repair and maintenance.
We know that not many people have a good understanding about what it takes to maintain their flat roof systems. This is why we put together a list of 7 do’s and don’ts that can go a long way in protecting your roof.
Do’s
Clean Your Roof
A roof that is cleaned regularly lasts much longer than a roof that is neglected for long periods. Keep your roof clear of any debris. This includes plants that may be growing near your home, as well as any bird or rodent nests. All of these can cause damage to the surface of your roof over time by trapping in moisture, or even providing food sources for insects that could infest the roof structure. Use a broom or leaf blower to remove leaves and other debris from the surface of your flat roof and then clean it.
Do not use a pressure washer to clean your flat roof. Pressure washing will cause damage to your roof, and can lead to expensive roof repairs now and in the future.
Inspect Your Roof
Simply cleaning your roof will not be enough; you need to thoroughly inspect your flat roof structure. A roof inspection is a process that involves checking the roof and the surrounding areas, such as gutters, chimneys, flashing, etc., to assess their condition. This helps to detect signs of roof damage, and determine if you roof needs repairs or to be replaced.
Generally, it is best to have your roof inspected at least once a year, and possibly more if you have experienced a severe storm in your area.
Work With A Professional
Your roof is not just a decoration for your house. It is an integral part of the structure that keeps you and your family safe from rain, snow, wind, or any other weather conditions that can damage the house. If you don’t maintain your roof properly, it could lead to serious problems like leaks in the roof, which may cause structural damage to your home.
It’s best to have a professional roofing company perform all flat roof repair and maintenance. Roofing contractors will be able to identify any potential issues before they become major problems, so that there are no surprises when it comes time for roof repairs or a complete replacement.
Don’ts
Walk On The Roof
Flat roofs are not built in a way that you should walk on them. Walking can build pressure on these roofs and make them vulnerable to more damage. This is why you should let only a professional on your roof for flat roof repair. If you have to walk on your roof, make sure to wear sturdy boots and be careful about where you step—the edges of the roof are usually the weakest points, and this is where most damage occurs when people walk on them.
Let The Trees Hang On Your Roof
Anything surrounding your home or business can play a crucial role in your flat roof’s lifespan. One of the primary causes of roof damage is the trees around your home. If part of the tree falls onto your roof, it can lead to major roof repairs or even a complete roof replacement. This is why you should keep the surrounding trees trimmed. This can be a difficult process, but it’s important because if they’re too close to your roof, they can cause damage as they grow or when storms come through.
Ignore leaks
It’s always better to fix a small leak before it leads to more roof damage. Even the smallest leak can cause damage to your roof and the structure of your home, which may require more extensive repairs. Small leaks can also lead to mold growth in your attic space.
If you do have a leak in your flat roof, don’t wait for it to get worse—instead, call a professional flat roofer immediately and schedule an appointment for them to come out and fix it.
Need Help With Roofing Services?
If you have questions about your roof, or need your roof repaired, it is always best to call a professional roofing company. If you are constantly scrolling through websites, searching ‘flat roof repair near me’ or ‘best contractors near me,’ then there is no reason to continue searching. Champion Exteriors’ highly capable team can help you. We are the company you should call if you require top-notch flat roof repair services. Our team has over 87 years of experience in the roofing industry, and when you work with us you are assured top-quality workmanship as well as materials.
Contact Champion Exteriors at (609) 845-3576 to get in touch with our team of experts today.