Few things are more frustrating than when you’re faced with flat roof repairs in Texas. Because of how they’re designed, flat roofs are prone to several issues that slanted roofs are not. Whether you’re worried about flat roof repair for your home or business, you’ve come to the right place. We’ll delve into some of the most common flat roof repairs, how to avoid them, and who to call when they’re necessary. Let’s get started! 

Can You Repair a Flat Roof? 

Like all other roofing systems, you can repair a damaged flat roof. Despite having a unique design, flat roofs are just as repairable as any other type of roof. Because they’re flat and easy to navigate, flat roof repairs are actually easier than standard residential roof repairs. Flat roofs also provide a convenient workspace for roofers to set up shop during repairs. 

Most Common Flat Roof Repairs 

Leaks 

If you have a flat roof on your Texas home or business, leaks are by far the most common problem to be on the lookout for. Leaks are common on flat roofs, even ones that have been installed meticulously and correctly. However, leaks are even more prevalent on roofs that haven’t been installed correctly. Here are some of the most common causes of leaks on flat roofs. 

• Not enough overlap between the membrane seems on your flat roof. 
• The roofing contractor used the wrong kind of fasteners or didn’t install them correctly. 
• The gable end flashings are installed incorrectly or have come loose. 
• Over the years, wear and tear have caused your roof to start cracking. 
• Whoever installed your roof forgot to install a membrane starter strip at the edge of the roof. 
• Your waterproof membrane beneath the top layer of the flat roof has become damaged. 
• Damage from a storm, hail, debris, or something else has poked one or more holes in your roof. 

In addition to these problems, pooling water, ice, or snow is another common issue we see with flat roofs. Flat roofs don’t have enough slope built into them to drain with gravity, so they have drains built into them. However, if water doesn’t drain quickly enough, it will end up pooling at various parts of your roof. This extra weight is enough to create small indentations that will eventually crack and result in a leak. 

Damaged Flashing 

While damaged flashing typically results in leaks, it’s a whole different type of roof repair than other flat roof leaks. Your roof flashing is the protective, waterproof seal around pipes and other objects protruding through your flat roof. You’ll also have flashing around the gable ends and at other spots on your roof. 

Flashing damage can stem from several things, including wear and tear, improper installation, or storm damage. Regardless of why your roof flashing is leaking, you’ll need to repair it before it causes serious damage to your roof and attic. Here are a few things to watch out for with your roof flashing. 

• Make sure there’s enough overlap between the flashing seems. 
• Check for ell flashing at every point where your flat roof meets a vertical surface, such as a wall or air conditioner. 
• If you have metal flashing, it will rust over time. 
• Check for flashing around any pitch transitions. 

Sun Damage

Finally, one of the biggest things you need to watch out for in Texas is sun damage. Throughout the spring, summer, and fall, the sun beats down relentlessly on flat roofs. Over time, UV radiation and sheer heat will take their toll and start forming cracks in your roof. This is especially common with rubber, EPDM, fiberglass, and modified bitumen roofing systems.  

Signs That You Need a Flat Roof Repair 

Unless your home or business got hit by a severe storm or foul weather, most flat roof issues aren’t instantaneous. They develop slowly over time and are often accompanied by other warning signs. Here are a few telltale signs that you need flat roof repairs. 

Pooling 

Pooling occurs when water, ice, or snow forms a dent in your roof and starts pooling in the same spot. 

Fading 

Fading is the result of sun damage and is often a precursor to cracks and roof leaks. 

Moisture 

Moisture is supposed to be on the outside of your roof but never on the inside. If you notice moisture on your ceiling or on the inside of your roof, you likely have an insulation or leak issue. 

Blistering 

With enough time, wear and tear, and sun damage, your roof will start blistering. It’s important to contact us immediately if you notice blistering because it often leads to cracks and leaks. 

Sagging 

If you notice sags and bends on the inside of your roof, it usually means you’re too late to do a repair and may need a roof replacement. Sagging is often the result of improper installation or damage that’s been left alone for too long. 

Things You Can Do to Prevent Flat Roof Damage 

If you want to avoid the need for flat roof repairs, it’s important to inspect, clean, and maintain your roof. Here are a few tips to get you started. 

• Go atop your roof regularly and check for debris, leaves, pooling water, and other potential problems. 
• Clean your roof regularly by removing debris, leaves, and pooling water. 
• Make sure your roof’s drainage system is working properly, and have your drains cleaned periodically. 
• Be vigilant for signs of fading, cracking, blistering, sagging, and other telltale signs of damage. 
• Contact KangaRoof for professional flat roof repair, maintenance, and cleanings. 

Who to Contact for All Your Flat Roof Repair Needs in Texas

If you are in need of a flat roof repair in Texas, look no further than KangaRoof. We’re one of the newest and best roofing companies in the Amarillo area, and we’d love to handle your flat roof repair. We have technicians on standby at all hours of the day and night and can be at your home at a moment’s notice. Contact us now to schedule an appointment or to learn more about our complete list of roofing services.