You might think that winter is the time when you should be concerned about your flat roof. Heavy rain, wind and freezing temperatures can cause problems but it is possible for the summer months to cause problems too.
When the sun is shining, everything feels good but the temperature means that stress can be placed on your flat roof, especially if it is damaged. When it comes to the summer months, there are certain things you should look for. These problems include:
- Thermal movement
- Blistering
- Flashing damage
- Poor installation
- Standing water
So, let’s take a look at these problems.
Thermal Movement
When we have hot days and cool nights, it might sound great but it is not particularly good for your flat roof. This can cause problems with heating and contractions when your flat roof heats up and cools down. This can cause it to weaken and could allow water to penetrate the roof.
Blistering
Certain flat roofs are prone to blistering and this can happen when water manages to work its way into holes and cracks. Once the temperature rises, the water heats which causes expansion, forcing the felt to lift. This leads to blisters, but you should not ignore them as blisters can lead to additional problems.
Flashing Damage
This damage occurs when moisture causes fungal growth. During the summer months when we have more sunlight, this can cause fungal growth to happen faster and that can cause problems with drainage.
Poor Installation
Perhaps your flat roof was not installed correctly or by a company with a good reputation. This might mean that the workmanship was of a poor standard. If this is the case then they might not have used the right materials or installed it correctly which means that during the summer months, the problems could arise during summer. This might be rainwater pooling, the roof sagging or additional pressure on the roof itself.
Standing Water
With summer in the UK comes changeable weather. As quick as the sun comes out, the rain clouds can gather and flash flooding is not a common scene in the UK. So, if your flat roof is too flat, then you might not have the right drainage which can lead to standing water and can then lead to leaks. The damage can take many years to become apparent but when the problem arises, it could prove costly.
So, What Can You Do?
If you have any concerns over the condition of your flat roof then it is time to get it inspected. You should have it checked by a flat roofing specialist who can provide the right advice and guidance relating to the problems you are experiencing or might experience.
If you find that the time has come to replace your roof, then you should make sure that you choose an installer who offers a guarantee on their work and an excellent level of workmanship to guarantee a good finish when completed.
