Keep Water from Pooling On Your Flat Roof with these Tips
Summer has arrived, and the best roofing contractors in Little Rock, AR, know that calls for storm damage cleanup will be on the rise. Summer storms in Arkansas are notorious for high volumes of rainfall accumulated over a short period of time, and while that may be appealing to storm chasers in the area, it’s not so great for your commercial roof.
Flat roofs have many advantages, but one downfall is that they tend to allow water to pool on the roof. This condition often segues into bigger problems. Luckily, there are steps you can take to be proactive and keep the damage under control.
Shamrock Roofing and Construction specializes in commercial roofing, including discovering the source of pooling water on a flat roof. Here are a few tips to help building owners and facilities managers avoid the damage caused by pooling water on the roof.
Keep the Membrane Fresh with Regular Inspections and Cleaning
Your roof’s membrane is the primary protective layer of your roofing system. Each flat roof has an estimated lifespan and should be able to withstand water and other invasions if cared for properly during that time. Experts on roofing in Little Rock, AR, recommend annual (or bi-annual, if the budget permits) cleanings to keep your roof fresh and allow time to fix any minor issues before they turn into major repairs.
Flush Out the Drains
Similar to the gutter system of a residential roof, flat roofs have drainage systems that help redirect water and channel it off the roof. However, drains can get clogged with dirt and debris and need to be flushed at least once a year. Without regular maintenance, they won’t work as intended, and you’ll find yourself in big trouble come storm season.
Fill in any Noticeable Slopes
Believe it or not, flat roofs are not entirely flat. There are many portions of the roof’s membrane that give out from things like shoddy installation, excess foot traffic on the rooftop, weakened material, or the extra weight of concentrated debris or water). These mini-dips on the roof’s surface create a prime opportunity for pooling water that collects and penetrates the interior of the building. The best roofing contractors in Little Rock will recommend filling in these dips and creating space for additional drainage. If these quick fixes don’t work, you may have to go the extra mile and repitch the roof. Either way, addressing slopes (big or small) is a must-do if you want to avoid pooling water.
Consider Crickets
Last but not least, you might find that water is attracted to certain areas of your roof (like chimney spouts or large vents). These contraptions are helpful in other aspects of building protection and maintenance, but they’re also a magnet for pooling water. Crickets are a type of roofing technology that can protect these more vulnerable components of your roof. Ask your roofer whether this option is right for you.
Need Help Getting Your Flat Roof Ready for Summer Storms? Call Shamrock Roofing!
If you’re a property owner looking to protect your investment, you need a team that’s well-versed in roofing in Little Rock, AR. It’s time to contact us at Shamrock Roofing and Construction. We offer a wide range of commercial roofing services designed to catch problems early — before they become large budget items. We look forward to partnering with you to protect one of your most significant assets. Get on our schedule today!