Depending on the type of material your flat roof is made of, it could last for 25 or even 50+ years. That’s a pretty long time, but eventually, you’re going to need a flat roof replacement.
Many homeowners wonder whether they need a replacement or can get by with repairs. Below, find a few common flat roof problems and warning signs that your roof is on its last leg.
Need flat roof replacement in Flagstaff, AZ? Contact Polaris Roofing Systems at (928) 699-4840.
Cracks in the Roof’s Coating
If your flat roof has a white coating to repel UV rays, you must watch it closely. This coating is prone to cracking, and if left unchecked, these cracks can seriously hurt your roof’s integrity.
Small cracks may not seem like a big deal, but you must address them before they get any bigger. Fail to do this, and you could be on the hook for a full flat roof replacement.
Visible Rips and Tears
Flat roofs are always under pressure, and that pressure can cause the seams to rip and tear. If you ignore the damage for too long, your roof may begin to leak. At this point, the damage is likely so severe that you’ll need a full replacement.
Ceiling Water Spots and Bulging
Water damage to your ceiling is not something to take lightly. It indicates that moisture is somehow getting into your home. If you’ve been neglecting maintenance, roof damage is the likely culprit.
You should also watch out for bulging spots in the ceiling. They contain built-up water, and you must drain them quickly if spotted. Your ceiling could collapse if you don’t drain the bulge promptly.
Pooling Water
Pooling water is more of a yellow flag than a red one. A bit of standing water is normal for flat roofs because they have no slope. Good flat roofing systems have some kind of drainage to remove the water so it doesn’t sit for too long.
Trouble arises if water stands on your roof for weeks, months, or longer. Standing water can cause moss and algae, which can degrade the roof’s materials to the point of collapse. Flat roofs leak when water stands for too long as well.
If you spot water with algae growing on your roof, the water has been standing for too long. You may need to call us for a flat roof replacement.
Bubbling and Blistering
Bubbles and blisters develop when the adhesive used for your roof fails. These bubbles develop as a result of poor insulation or ventilation. A shoddy installation job can cause bubbles to pop up, too.
If you’ve got bubbles and blisters covering the entire roof, you’ll probably need a full replacement.
Types of Flat Roof Materials
If you need a flat roof replacement, you might feel overwhelmed by your options for materials. The most popular flat roofing materials include the following:
- Modified bitumen: This asphalt material is mixed with rubber or plastic for better durability.
- Built-up: A built-up roof (BUR) consists of several layers of asphalt and felt or fiberglass.
- PVC: PVC roofing is made of synthetic plastic. It’s prized for its UV resistance and durability.
- Green roofing: A great pick if you’re craving a rooftop garden. Green roofs layer soil and plants on top of a membrane to give your home a unique look.
- Metal: Metal roofs are more low-slope than they are totally flat. Homeowners love them because they can last for up to 50 years.
Get a Quote for Flat Roof Replacement Now
If you recognize any of the above warning signs, it may be time for a flat roof replacement. Our locally owned company has proudly served Flagstaff for many years, so you can trust that we’ll get your roof replacement done right.
Call Polaris Roofing Systems today at (928) 699-4840. We’re more than happy to answer all your roofing questions and provide you with a quote.
