Roofing 101: How to Maintain a Flat Roof

Mar 19, 2024Blog Parent Page, Roofing

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When it comes to important parts of a house your roof is one of the most vital components of your home, providing protection from the elements year-round. Flat roofs in particular come with their own set of challenges, requiring regular attention and care to ensure they remain in optimal condition.

At Cambridge Roofing Repairs, we have decades of experience with roof repairs and maintenance — so we know how important it is to ensure a flat roof is in the best condition possible. Read on for all you need to know.

 

Identifying and addressing common flat roof issues

As with all aspects of your home, regular inspections of your flat roof can ensure you spot any irregularities or concerns before they escalate into costly repairs. What are the things you should look out for? A good starting point is to check for any obvious signs of damage such as cracks and pooling water, as these can quickly worsen and increase the likelihood of a larger flat roof repair being necessary.

Other areas you can inspect are the seams around the edge of the roof, and if you have it, the flashing used to seal gaps, as these areas are prone to leaks. If you’re able to, clearing debris, such as leaves or branches can help with drainage. It’s not just the exterior that needs a regular checkup — you can also inspect the interior of your property for signs of water stains or mould growth, indicating a potential roof leak.

 

Tips for extending the lifespan of your roof

The best way to address potential future issues is to ensure you are implementing a preventive routine. This will help increase your flat roof’s lifespan and minimise the need for costly repairs later on. If you’ve had a chance to inspect your seams and flashing, you can also inspect the sealant around these areas ahead of any wet seasons.

It’s hard to believe, but did you know parts of the UK get up to 1904 hours of direct sunlight each year? We know what happens when we stay in the sun without protection, so consider coating your flat roofing to reduce UV damage. The next time you are gardening, it’s worth trimming nearby branches and vegetation to prevent them from scraping or puncturing the roof membrane during windy conditions.

For more advice, take a look at our tips on extending the lifespan of your roof.

 

When and why to hire a roofing contractor for flat roof maintenance

It’s all well and good suggesting you undertake the maintenance on your flat roof — and the odd roof cleaning is something you can do yourself. However, some roof repairs cannot be undertaken without professionals present. Not everyone has the tools available to cut branches down, or a spare can of roofing sealant to hand.

If you’re short on supplies, you can always invest in professional inspection with Cambridge Roofing Repairs to catch any potential issues early on. Likewise, if you notice significant damage during your inspections, or encounter persistent leaks despite your best efforts, it’s best to call in the experts.

 

Get peace of mind with Cambridge Roofing Repairs

As we’ve found out, there’s nothing to lose and everything to gain from being proactive with roof cleaning and repair. We’re a one-stop shop at Cambridge Roofing Repairs, so whether it’s a routine roof cleaning or a specialist chimney repair job you’re after, we can help.

If you require a flat roof expert in Cambridge then contact us today to get the best advice available local to you.

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