With the Autumn and Winter months on their way, it’s important to recognise a leak in your flat roof and even more important to understand what steps to take if a leak occurs. For homeowners in storm-prone areas, neglect of your flat roof could lead to leaks that require prompt attention. In this guide we will look at how to identify a leak, and the various different methods used to repair them.

How To Identify A Leak In Your Flat Roof

If you suspect that you may have a Leaky Flat Roof, prompt inspection and identification of the leak is vital. To effectively identify a leak, follow these guidelines:

• Before beginning your inspection, await a dry spell of up to 72 hours. Climbing up onto your roof during cooler temperatures may enhance visibility of any leak source.
• If you have any doubts about carrying out the inspection yourself, whether it be due to the climb up onto the roof, always prioritise safety and do not hesitate to contact a professional.
• If you see any steam during your examination, this may be an indication of heat escaping from a breach in your roof.
• Dirt Rings or Water Stains could reveal previous water pooling locations, which are often responsible for leaks.
• To make it easier to pinpoint the area of the leak, irrigate the suspected area with a hosepipe and observe if water appears inside.

Keep these points in my mind when inspecting your roof:

• The Common Causes of Roof Damage: look for things such as a slits, punctures, or degraded seals, which could all lead to leaks.
• If the area you irrigated with the hosepipe does not reveal a leak, attempt the irrigation again in various locations until the leak is located.
• Have a look! Whilst inspecting your roof, survey for any other potential issues that may cause future leaks.

By following these steps you can often detect the exact point of a leaky flat roof without the need for extensive professional intervention. However, keep in mind, that if the flat roof repair is beyond your skillset, enlisting a skilled roofer is always recommended to ensure a lasting resolution.

How To Fix Leakages In Flat Roofs

Resolving A Leaking Felt Roof:

Leaks and divisions in felt roofs can typically be fixed by using a dual layer of flat roof sealant after ensuring the area in question is clean and completely dry. For significant damage, we would recommend adding new layer of torch-on roofing felt, but if you’re not certified to work with open flames, it is important to seek help from a qualified professional.

Fixing Splits in Fibreglass Roofs:

Known for their longevity and visual appeal, Glass Reinforced Polyester (GRP) Roof’s are perfect options for your property, but what do you do if you have to mend a split? Buy a good-quality Fibreglass Repair Kit, then prepare the area in question with sandpaper and acetone. Follow the kit’s instructions to apply chopped strand matting and finish off with a top layer. When resolving flashing problems, always make sure to ensure matching colours for a seamless finish.

Patch an EPDM Roof:

Being a durable choice for Flat Roofs, Ethylene Propylene Diene Monomer, or EPDM, is a cost-effective and eco-friendly choice for your property. And patching one isn’t difficult. You can use EPDM sealant for small tears, but larger holes may require a more lasting approach. Once you have cleansed the area, apply an EPDM-specific primer and then fix the area with self-adhesive flashing tape, making sure to work from the centre outwards. Using a roller can help ensure it’s firmly in place, capped with edge sealant for added assurance.

Cracks in Concrete Roofs:

You can apply a bitumen primer followed by a waterproof sealant or paint for a temporary fix for a crack in a concrete roof. For larger cracks, bonding a new layer of roofing felt is optimal, torch-on if the crack’s size warrants it. Remember, working with an open-flame requires proper insurance.

Sealing An Asphalt Roof:

Remember to examine your asphalt roof for blisters and ruptures. For a quick solution post-cleaning, we recommend using a self-adhesive bitumen flashing tape. For more extensive damage, consider using a torch-on roofing felt for a more resilient option. This technique also applies to multiple cracks or blisters grouped together. Ensure you, or the person conducting the repair, are insured to manage open flames.

When Should I Seek Expert Help For A Leaky Roof?

The complexities of a flat roof leak repair should not be underestimated, but we understand that the thought of tackling rooftop repairs on your own might seem appealing. Here’s when you might consider contacting an expert to help:

• Accurate Diagnosis: An understanding of what you are looking at is crucial when determining the exact cause of the leakage. Roofing experts have the expertise to identify and effectively solve complex roofing issues.
• Working at Heights: It’s paramount to not underestimate the risk it takes when doing any sort of roofing work, particularly when it involves heights. Roofing experts are trained and equipped to deal with these safely.
• Cost-Effectiveness: Contacting a roofing expert may save you from future, more expensive repairs arising from potential misdiagnosis or improper fixes.
• Quality of Repairs: When you hire a roofing expert, the repair they carry out will be guaranteed to meet certain standards, ensuring longevity and reliability.

How Do I Maintain My Flat Roof?

Looking after your flat roof is crucial to prevent water ingress and damage. Here’s some tips on extending your flat roof’s lifespan:

• Regular Checks: Inspect your roof regularly to spot potential cracks or blisters that could lead to water damage.
• Quick Repairs: Have you found damp timbers or pooling water? Act fast to seal the area, then seek a long-term solution.
• Seek An Expert: Have you noticed sagging, mould, or condensation? We’d advise consulting with a reliable roofer.
• Avoid Structural Damage: It’s important to remove any debris, such as leaves or fallen tree branches which can lead to structural damage.
• Keep An Eye On Installations: Pay close attention to skylights, roofing vents and pipes as poor detailing around these features can allow water ingress.
• Prepare For Every Season: Before any extreme weather occurs, ensure low spots that accumulate water are addressed to prevent ponding water.

Remember that effective maintenance goes a long way in preserving your roof’s structural integrity, saving you potential high expenses down the line. Should you find any serious issues, don’t hesitate to get in touch with an expert roofer such as South Hams Roofing Supplies. Please get in touch with us for a free quotation.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

What Are The Common Causes Of Leaky Flat Roofs?

Many different factors can lead to the deterioration of a flat roof, causing it to leak:

• Cracks or the breakdown of roofing materials could be due to age-related wear and tear.
• Water can seep in if flashings are failing or have been poorly installed.
• Pooling and subsequent damage can be caused by the accumulation of debris or water.
• If any structural movement in the roof covering happens, it may cause splits or fractures.