Flat Roof Repairs In Dublin

Regardless of the quality of the roof, the difference between a roof that lasts long and one that wears out quickly is maintenance. Roofing experts advice that flat roof repairs and maintenance be carried out at least once annually. This allows for early detection and correction of any defect with the roof.

Roofs are either pitched/ sloped or flat. Owing to the design difference, mode of repair might be slightly different but follow a similar procedure:

• Diagnosis of the problem.
• Recommendation and cost estimation.

Before we delve deeper and see what flat roof repairs entails, let’s have a look at some problems frequently observed on flat roofs:

Leakages

This is perhaps is the most common problem. After it rains, the flat design of the roof allows for some water to pool on the roof. Unless this water is drained away, it will slowly penetrate through the weak points of the membrane and get into the house.

At construction, it will be prudent to work with your roofer on some structural adjustment of the roof to allow good water drainage to avert this menace.

Foot damage

Unlike the sloping roof that is obviously dangerous, the flatness of the flat roof makes it attractive point floor exploration. This frequent and at times careless walks damage the membrane. Punctures result which unless promptly sealed will be sources of future leakages.

Shrinkage

It’s not uncommon for the membrane to shrink and pull off. This compromises the integrity of the entire roof and appropriate repairs should be conducted.

Flat Roof Repairs

Inspection

Inspection involves a thorough observation of the roof with an aim of picking out any defect.

While it is always recommended to have the expert do this, it does not hurt developing that curious eye. It will be of help one day when you notice a problem and call in a roofer for repair. After all, it’s your house.

Remember the problems we cited that come with flat roofs? Be on the look-out for a sign of any leakage, shrinkage or foot damaged points. The latter two are easily observable on the roof.

Leakage however may not be easy to ascertain by just looking at the top. You may need to check some vital signs inside the house. Dark patches on the ceiling board, peeling paints, spots at the fireplace and moisture on the walls is a sure confirmation of a leakage.

Moreover, carefully inspect the flashing and seams. As you walk about, look for any signs of damage. Cracks and punctures are damages that would need attention. Check the roof attachment point to the chimney or roof window.

Also check out for ageing signs i.e. the membrane wearing out. Microorganisms like molds and lichens can be dangerous. Over time they compromise the integrity of the roof, therefore the presence of masses is an issue of concern.

The presence of ponds of water should not be taken lightly.

Correct inspection sets the stage for proper flat roof repairs.

Diagnosis

The findings during observation inform the diagnosis. While observation can be done by an amateur too, diagnosis should be left to a qualified roofer.

The roofer goes to great detail to find out what the problem really is. It may not be as it seems, so they try dig out the problem further. This not only to curb damage but also preempt any future damage.

It may entail taking a second closer look or enquiring from the home dwellers of their experience. The roofer inevitably falls back to his training and experience to unravel other deeper issues.

Recommendation and cost estimation

The culmination of the diagnosis is recommendation. The roofer suggests the corrective measures that can be employed to rectify the damages. This alongside a cost estimate.

The extent of damage informs a lot at this stage. If it is just a slight problem, a simple solution is given and it will cost less to fix.

Severe damages will call for intense repair procedures which of course will cost more.

Repair

Repair turns the recommendation into a reality. After understanding the diagnosis and the recommendation of the roofer, you get someone fix the issue.

As always advised, it is important to get someone with the prerequisite skill do the repair. We understand there are many guide books, magazines and DIY videos on YouTube that encourage you to do the repairs yourself.

Actuality, it may not be easy as they portray it. You will come to realize it when you are stuck on the roof with a more damaged roof.

That not mean you cannot fix simple roofing anomalies. You know best.

The repair method will be determined by the severity of the damage. Flat roof repairs may range from simple realignment, membrane replacement, sealing off a crack to high intensity repairs that entail a complete roof replacement.