Three Common Causes of Leaks in Your Flat Roof: Insights from a Roofing and Tuckpointing Contractor in Roscoe Village, Chicago

Flat roofs are quite common in commercial buildings. But in recent years, Roscoe Village homeowners who are looking for elegant and space-saving roofing solutions have found this roofing option appealing. Flat roofs provide space for an HVAC system, and their easy accessibility makes repair and maintenance work simple. However, one of the main drawbacks to flat roofs is that they are prone to leaks, which can result in expensive repairs.

To help you avoid issues with your flat roof, this roofing and tuckpointing contractor in Roscoe Village, Chicago is going to explain the three most common causes of leaks in flat roofs.

Pooling Water

Pooling is probably the most severe threat to a flat roof. The National Roofing Contractors Association defines pooling as any water that remains on the roof for more than 48 hours after rainfall. Ideally, the roof should have a slight incline — this makes it easier for water to make its way to the drains.

Remember that even well-designed flat roofs might experience pooling problems in the future. The longer water is allowed to stay on your roof, the more likely it may cause damaging leaks. With that said, it’s important to have your local roofing and tuckpointing contractor in Roscoe Village, Chicago inspect your flat roof regularly for any signs of standing water.

Pooling is common around drains clogged with debris. Similarly, other parts of the drainage system, including gutters, downspouts, and thru-wall scuppers, could be the source of the problem. Pooling is also more likely to occur around large rooftop units such as HVAC appliances because their weight deforms the structure of the underlying roofing supports.

Pooling is a serious roofing problem, even if it has not yet resulted in a leak. This is attributable to the fact that the excess weight of the water will only exacerbate the problem over time. Roof leveling compounds can help correct dips and indents and restore the flatness required for optimal drainage, assuming the problem is minor. However, more severe pooling may necessitate a roof replacement.

Damaged Membrane

Traditionally, most flat roofs were made from a built-up roof system, also known as a BUR. Multiple layers of materials, including reinforcing fabric, bitumen (asphalt), and aggregate (such as stone or gravel), are used to construct this roofing system. While effective, installing a built-up roof system is time-consuming and labor-intensive.

Membrane roofing is becoming a more common option nowadays. This roofing system is constructed from a thin, single-ply membrane, which is commonly made of synthetic rubber, thermoplastics like PVC, or modified bitumen. Membrane roofing is less expensive and easier to install due to its simplicity. This type of roofing also offers a high level of protection.

However, membrane roofing is no less susceptible to damage over time. Cracks and punctures are common problems that can allow water to enter the fragile insulation below the membrane. As this insulation becomes more waterlogged, more devious leaks will form. As such, it’s recommended that you have your roofing membrane regularly inspected for damage by a reputable roofing and tuckpointing contractor in Roscoe Village, Chicago.

Roof Penetrating Structures 

Flat roofs have a common thread with pitched shingle roofs — they are more susceptible to leaks anywhere a structure rises through the roof’s surface. Roof vents, gas lines, and other architectural features are examples of such structures.

You can ask a reputable Roscoe Village roofing and tuckpointing contractor to install vent pipe flashing or rain collars to protect these structures against leaks. However, water will still find a way to get through these defenses. Therefore, every roof inspection should include a thorough examination of all roof penetrating structures.

Looking for the Top-Rated Roofing and Tuckpointing Contractor in Roscoe Village, Chicago?

Are you dealing with leaks in your flat roof? If so, Expert Super Seal Roofing & Tuckpointing is here to help. As the top-rated roofing and tuckpointing contractor in Roscoe Village, Chicago, our crews know how to effectively identity and repair any leaks that have formed in your flat roof.

Contact us today at (773) 993-5668 to schedule an appointment.