Have you asked the question: When Should I Replace My Flat Roof? We look at how to decide if you require roof repair or roof replacement.
When should I replace my flat roof?
A common flat roofing material is EDPM, which generally lasts up to 20 years, with an upper limit of around 25 years, whereas some materials such as felt may have lifespans around two years.
There are various materials that flat roofs can be made of, and therefore it is good to know the expected lifetime of a room, as when it comes, it is generally better to replace the flat roof than repair.
It is also beneficial to inspect the roof yourself for any visible damage, as this may also be an indicator that work may need to be done. It is of note that most roofing contractors will inspect a roof to decide whether to repair or replace it.
Such as if extensive damage has been accrued, then repairs could be never-ending, as well as this professionals can conduct complete surveys of a roof. It is also essential to know if the flat roof came with a guarantee of some sort, as if it hasn't met the criteria specified, then frequently there will be something given back from the installer.
Do I need to Replacement or Repair my flat roof?
If the age of the roof is the concern, and you are close to the end of the expected lifespan of a flat roof, then it will most often be better to replace the roof as opposed to repairing it.
When a flat roof is older, problems can occur repeatedly, and repairs would be frequent, which would continually incur costs. Therefore, roof replacements can be a more cost-effective solution in some scenarios instead of roof repair.
Another indicator that a flat roof needs inspection is if the property's energy bills increased consistently without an associated reason.
If a roof is too old or in some way damaged, it will become less efficient as an insulator; as such, the cost of keeping the temperature within a house consistent will increase. If this is the case, then it depends on the situation as to whether replacement or repairing is a better option.
It will generally be the case that if there is a small, singular area, it can be repaired, whereas a more structural issue or something that happened due to the roof's age, then a replacement can be more effective. This is a case-by-case scenario.
Roof leaks need a hasty response, as at first, they may not be a big issue.
However, being left rampant may cause structural problems or damage to other areas of a property. If reacted to quickly, however, it is common for this to be easily repaired, which helps keep costs low.
If you notice leaks or potential water damage, there are some things you can do yourself to help prevent further damage before a professional is called.
A benefit of a flat roof is that damage can often be accessible than some alternatives; this means that damage can often be physically seen. Semi-regular checking can be an excellent way to prevent any damage or issues from getting worse, as measures can be put in place quickly.
It is also possible for a professional inspection of a roof, especially if you don't feel comfortable ascertaining yourself, especially for factors such as weather damage.
Is my Roof Damaged?
Damaged flashing can be detrimental to a flat roof system, as it can cause weather and moisture damage to built up over time. However, it is also something that can be relatively quickly and easily fixed when caught early.
Flashing refers to a thin metal installed to direct water away from certain areas, such as chimneys. Therefore, it can help prevent leaks or water damage.
Having damage to the flashing can lead to those aspects incurring damage over time, leading to costly repairs or even replacements. With flat roofs, there is potential for blistering, bubbling and cracking. These can result from exposure to the sun or high temperatures and may indicate a need to replace the roof membrane.
However, if the damage is in an isolated spot, a repair may solve the problem. Pooling water is one of the signs that a flat roof likely needs repairing. This is because flat roofs, despite the name, are not purely flat to prevent standing water.
Pooling water can happen because of materials warping, whether through age or damage. This water can accumulate and seep into the roofing system, leading to it needing to be replaced. Hence a distinction sometimes made is whether a roof is functionally flat or a pitched roof.
If there were previously extreme weather conditions such as a storm, it is essential to inspect the roof when it is safe to do so. If the damage extends across the roof, such as tears and punctures, it may need replacing, as it can be the most cost-effective option. However, if the damage is sparse or in a single area, a repair may be viable.
Are you looking for a flat roof specialist in Andover, Basingstoke or Winchester? If you find yourself in need of a replacement flat roof, don't hesitate to contact Flat Roofers Basingstoke today! We have staff on hand to answer any questions you might have.