Why you should inspect your flat roof in the winter
Inspecting your flat roof in the winter is important because it allows you to identify any potential issues with the roof before the weather gets too cold. Ice and snow can cause damage to a flat roof, so it‘s important to identify any weak spots or areas of concern before the winter weather sets in. Additionally, inspecting your flat roof in the winter allows you to spot any potential leaks that could cause further damage in the spring and summer months.
Flat roofs can suffer from a variety of damage in the winter months, such as:
- Ice Dams: Ice dams form when the snow melts on the roof, then refreezes at the roof’s edge, preventing additional snow and water from running off. This can lead to water pooling up and causing damage to the roof.
- Cracks: Cold temperatures can cause cracks in the roof membrane, leading to water intrusion and damage to the roof.
- Clogged Drains: Drains can become clogged with debris or snow and ice, causing water to pool up on the roof and eventually cause damage.
- Debris Buildup: Wind and snow can carry debris to the roof, leading to a buildup of materials on the roof that can cause damage to the roof membrane. 5. Expansion & Contraction: The roof membrane can expand and contract in cold temperatures, leading to seams and flashing becoming loose and allowing water to intrude.
ICE DAMS
In the winter, flat roofs can suffer from damage due to ice dams, cracks, clogged drains, debris buildup, and expansion and contraction of the roof membrane. Ice dams can cause water to pool up and cause damage to the roof, while cracks can allow water to intrude and cause damage. Clogged drains can also cause water to pool on the roof, while debris buildup, expansion, and contraction can lead to the loosening of seams and flashing and allow water to intrude. These potential problems should be monitored and addressed to avoid further damage to the roof.
CRACKS
Several things, including extreme temperature fluctuations, poor installation, improper maintenance, drainage, and debris accumulation, can cause cracks in a flat roof during the winter. Extreme temperature fluctuations can cause the roof to expand and contract, leading to cracks. Poor installation can lead to uneven stress distribution and cause cracks. Improper maintenance can lead to the buildup of debris, which can hold moisture and cause the roof to deteriorate over time. Improper drainage can cause water to accumulate in areas, leading to cracks and other damage.
CLOGGED DRAINS
Clogged drains on a flat roof can be caused by various things, including debris and leave blocking the drain, ice and snow buildup, and improper drainage design. Poorly maintained gutters can also lead to clogged drains, as can a buildup of dirt, leaves, and other debris that accumulates over the winter months.
DEBRIS BUILDUP
Debris buildup on a flat roof in the winter is often caused by melting snow and ice, which can collect in gutters and on the roof itself. Leaves and other debris accumulated during the fall can also be blown onto the roof and contribute to the buildup. If the flat roof is not regularly maintained, the buildup can cause water to pool on the roof, leading to leaking and other damage.
Why Hire A & L Flat Roof Repair for Your Flat Roof Inspection?
We have over 25 years of experience providing flat roof inspections, maintenance, and repair to both commercial buildings and residential homes. Reach out to us today for a FREE flat roof services estimate on 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.
