There are many buildings with flat roofs in Wilson County, especially commercial properties and industrial facilities. This type of roof has become very popular due to the fact it is not only aesthetically attractive, but also easier to maintain than other types of roof like sloped roofs . However, like anything else, flat roofs require regular and careful maintenance and, when their lifespan has reached the end or when having suffered a severe damage, a whole replacement.
It is crucial to timely recognize the moment to perform a flat roof replacement and, therefore, prevent more serious damage. But…how can you recognize the right time to do it? Let’s check out the most common signs of deterioration especially given Wilson County’s weather and, even more important, how to face them.
Water Leaks
The most common and scary sign of alarm, although sometimes can be small and easy to repair, in other cases can be bigger and very frequent and when that’s the case, is probably because the roofing system is failing. This problem can be very common especially in humid zones with occasional heavy rainfalls like Wilson County.
It is also important to keep in mind that, although leaks start being very small, they can also increase causing mold growth and water stains on ceilings and walls and, when they’re not timely fixed, serious structural damage, affecting not only the flat roof, but also the building.
When the leaks appear in different areas of the flat roof the most advisable thing to do is a whole replacement. You can also opt for patching up the spots but that won’t be a long-lasting solution.
Pooling Water or Ponding
Flat roofs usually have a slight pitch to drain the rainwater but, over time, this drainage system can fail causing water pooling, also known as ponding. This is another usual issue in Wilson County due to the seasonal rainfalls and thunderstorms.
If you see that, after a rainfall or a storm, the remaining water in your flat roof doesn’t drain after 48 hours, you probably have a drainage problem. Remember that a long exposure to remaining water can seriously damage the membrane besides causing leaks and structural problems for the roof so this issue needs to be addressed as soon as possible.
Blistering or Bubbling
This is another signal that the end of your flat roof’s lifespan is very near. This issue is usually caused by moisture or trapped air between the layers and the membrane. In zones that have specially hot summers and high humidity levels, like Wilson County, this issue can be very common and also serious causing the roof expanding and contracting according to temperature changes.
Small blisters can be repaired with no problem but too much bubbling in your flat roof’s surface is a sign of a more serious damage. If your blisters have not been properly checked during maintenance, there is a serious risk for them to break and let the water in, infiltrating the roof and causing leaks and structural damage.
Cracks
Flat roofs’ membranes can have cracks for aging, weather prolonged exposure or structural damage. When the flat roof freezes and then thaws before freezing again during winter in some zones like Wilson County the roof’s membrane expands and contracts which causes the cracks.
This is one of the most serious issues a flat roof can face since it creates an entry point for rainwater, causing infiltration and, when not timely detected and addressed, serious structural damage for the building. Don’t even think of repairing: it is time to replace the whole flat roof.
Membrane Damage
The membrane is a critical element of a flat roof since it is the barrier that protects the building from external elements, especially weather elements like rain and wind. The most common types of roofing membranes are:
– EPDM (rubber)
– PVC (Polyvinyl chloride)
– TPO (Thermoplastic Olefin)
Despite the type of membrane you have,it is natural that over time it gets deteriorated by wear and weather and natural elements like UV radiation. In zones with extreme weather conditions, like Wilson County, this degradation process can be faster and more intense. If you see any sign of wear or deterioration in your flat roof’s membrane, it is better and more cost-effective to replace it than repair it.
Sagging
This is another warning sign that you must address as soon as possible since it usually indicates that the integrity of the roof is compromised. It is usually caused by water accumulation, rotting roof decking or poor-quality support beams. Heavy rain and high humidity levels in zones like Wilson County can make the moisture damage the roof structure making the sagging problem even worse.
Sagging roofs not only increase the leak risk but also implies a serious safety risk. A sagged roof can collapse at any moment jeopardizing occupants life and integrity. When this sign appears, the best that you can do is ask for professional help to replace your flat roof.
Increasing Energy Bills
Have you recently seen an increase in your energy bill? Well, whether you believe it or not, it is also a sign that it is time to replace your flat roof. When a flat roof is well-maintained and properly insulated it efficiently regulates indoor temperatures and, therefore, reduces the need of heating or cooling. But while the roof ages, its insulation capability decreases causing it to get too hot during summer and too cold during winter.
Given the extreme weather conditions experienced in Wilson County during summer and winter, this can be very problematic.
Modern flat roofing materials come with insulation properties which optimize energy efficiency and help to reduce your cooling and heating costs
Aging
This is another critical factor for a flat roof. Usually the lifespan of a roof goes between 15 and 30 years when using right and prime-quality materials – keep in mind that installation can make a significant difference – although under some weather conditions like heat, humidity and usual rains, like in Wilson County, the wear process can start earlier than expected and be faster.
Even if there are no signs of damage, the best thing you can do when your roof has reached the end of its lifespan is opt for a whole replacement. Older roofs are prone to leaks, cracks and other problems that can imply expensive repairs in the future.
The Wilson County climate makes it essential to be very aware of your flat roof in order to timely identify the wear and damage signs. Is your flat roof having frequent leaks, cracks and membrane damage? You probably need to replace it as soon as you can to avoid more serious damage and ensure your building’s safety.
Do you live in Wilson County and have noticed any of these signs on your flat roof? We are the solution you’re looking for! In Advanced Building and Roofing we provide the best maintenance, repair, installation and replacement services in the area. We’ll be more than happy to give you a quote and all the advice that you need and, if you approve, we’ll perform the repair or replacement your flat roof needs in the quickest and most efficient possible way. Don’te hesitate to call us and get your quote now!
