Flat Roof Repairs - Jacob James Roofing

Quick Roofing Quotations

Professionally Installed

Made to Measure

Quality Checked

Before considering repairs for your flat roof we will need to identify the location of the leak plus the extent of the damage and the best method to fix it. Flat roofs are built up from a number of laters which include roofing felt, tar and rubber membrane. Typically the damage will be easy to spot on the roofing and in turn the source of the leak.

Once the leak is located and the damage has been assessed we will check for any excess water from the leak and start mopping this up and drying the area (if possible). Jacob James Roofing would recommend having this task completed following a few dry days to allow the roofing felt to dry out effectively.

To find out more about flat roof repair, please contact us for a free, no-obligation quote.

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Specification

Regular maintenance and timely repairs can extend the life of a flat roof and prevent minor issues from becoming major problems.

Common Issues

Leaks: Often caused by punctures, seams, or flashing failures. Ponding Water: Water accumulation due to poor drainage. Blistering: Air pockets forming under the roofing material. Cracking and Splitting: Due to aging or thermal movement. Membrane Shrinkage: In EPDM or other membrane roofs.

Materials and Tools Needed

Materials: Roofing patches, sealant, adhesive, flashing, primer (for EPDM), and topcoat (for GRP).
Tools: Utility knife, roller, brush, trowel, and caulking gun.

Prevention and Maintenance

Regular Inspections: Check for early signs of damage, especially after storms.
Clear Debris: Ensure gutters and drains are clear to prevent ponding water.
Reapply Sealant: Periodically reapply sealant to seams and joints.
UV Protection: Use reflective coatings to minimize UV damage.

Professional Help

When to Call a Professional: Extensive damage, structural issues, or complex repairs that require expertise.
Benefits: Ensures thorough repair and longevity of the roof.

Repair Techniques

A. Small Repairs

Patching: Apply a patch of similar material (felt, EPDM, GRP) over small cracks or punctures.
Sealing: Use roofing sealant or caulk for minor leaks or splits.

B. Medium Repairs

Flashing Repairs: Replace or repair damaged flashing around roof edges, chimneys, and vents.
Re-sealing Seams: Use seam tape or adhesive to fix lifted or broken seams, especially in EPDM roofs.

C. Major Repairs

Overlay: Install a new membrane layer over the existing roof if the damage is extensive but the underlying structure is sound.
Partial Re-roofing: Replace a section of the roof if localized damage is severe.