How Do Businesses Prevent Leaks When The Roof Is Flat?

Having a flat-roofed building can be a major advantage for some businesses. The lack of pitch means that there is more space on the roof, which can be used for storage, solar panels, or other purposes. However, flat roofs also come with their own unique set of problems, one of which is leaks. There are a few things businesses can do to prevent this, and we're going to talk about them here.

Water Collection

Leaks in flat roofs are often caused by ponding water, which is when water pooled on the roof doesn't have anywhere to go. This can happen after a heavy rainstorm, and if the water isn't removed quickly enough, it can seep through cracks or gaps in the roofing material and cause leaks inside the building. To prevent this, businesses should make sure that their flat roofs are equipped with proper drainage systems. This could involve installing gutters and downspouts to help move water off the roof, or it could mean creating a slope in the roof so that water will run off of it more easily. Protecting the building as well as the contents of your business is of utmost importance, so entrusting a commercial roofing specialist with this is highly recommended. They'll know the best methods and products to use for your building and climate.

Routine Inspections

Preventing leaks in flat roofs is made manageable through routine inspections for damage or wear. This is especially important after severe weather, as high winds or hail can damage roofing material and create openings for leaks. Businesses should also be sure to repair any damage they find as soon as possible to prevent further problems. Snow and ice can also cause issues on flat roofs, so it's important to remove them as quickly as possible to reduce the risk of leaks. This is critical if your structure is wood construction and has suffered leaks previously, which may have compromised it. The weight of ice and snow could cause a potential collapse, so keep those inspections up-to-date.

Sunshine and Greenroofs

Finally, businesses can also take steps to protect their flat roofs from the sun. ultraviolet rays can cause the roofing material to degrade over time, making it more susceptible to leaks. Applying a reflective coating to the roof can help reflect some of the sun's rays and keep the material in better condition for longer. And, speaking of special applications, did you know that some flat-roofed buildings have what's called a greenroof? This is when vegetation is planted on the roof to provide insulation and help with water drainage. Not only does it look great, but it can also help reduce your business's energy costs.

As you can see, there are a few different ways businesses can prevent leaks in flat-roofed buildings. By taking some simple precautions and being a little innovative, you can preserve your business' flat roof and avoid costly repairs down the road.