If you are the maintenance manager of a commercial building that has an EPDM rubber flat roof installed, you may find yourself with the dilemma of having quite a few roofing problems. What you may not know is that the lack of frequent flat roof inspections has contributed to your problem.
With proper installation and maintenance, many EPDM rubber flat roofs could last up to 50 years. Consequently, they have become an increasingly popular flat roofing option for commercial buildings throughout Oakland and Macomb counties. EPDM is a single-ply flat roofing system that is a long-term solution due to its energy-efficient properties. It’s a durable rubber membrane that is also regularly used on low-slop industrial/commercial buildings. However, even with its durability, there is still the chance that your flat roof may develop leaks if not properly maintained. Routine flat roof inspections can save you a significant amount of money by reducing leaks and extending the life of your flat roof.
Flat roof inspectors will recommend a visual inspection at least once every year depending on the condition and the amount of traffic your flat roof gets. It’s easy to find a hole, rip, or, a puncture in the EPDM membrane. It’s also easy to spot leaks by looking for areas in the membrane that appear soft. If you have low areas or even wrinkles in the membrane, it’s a giveaway that your EPDM rubber flat roof needs to be repaired. A qualified flat roof inspector will inspect the flat roofing system including flashings, gutters, and drains.
When A & L Flat Roof Repair is hired to perform an EPDM flat roof inspection we look at:
- Membrane Surface – We are looking for cracks, tears, or holes that allow water into your roofing system and cause damage and mold
- Seams – Seams are where the EPDM rubber is connected to form the surface of your roof. We find seams to be the most common area to fail on a flat roof.
- Protrusions and Roof Add-Ons – Many times, commercial flat roofs have pipes, skylights, or other projections from the roof. These areas are common weak spots in a flat roof that could allow water to leak in
- Water/Drainage – If there is evidence of pooling/ponding water, that is a possible sign that the drainage system on your flat roof is not working properly.
When a flat roof inspection is thoroughly performed, current problems can be found that will possibly prevent future new issues from occurring.
If you are the maintenance manager of your commercial building and have never performed a commercial flat roof inspection on your building, it’s essential you do so as soon as possible to determine the existing condition of your flat roofing system.
At A & L Flat Roof Repair not only do we provide EPDM Flat Roof inspections, but we also repair them. We have over 25 years of experience providing flat roof repair to both commercial buildings and residential homes. Contact us today for more information about our commercial/industrial flat roofing services. We can be reached at 586-777-1477. We service all communities of Oakland, Macomb, Lapeer, Wayne, and Genesee counties.
