Bromley Roofing advice
Is My Flat Roof Failing?
Pooling water, cracks, open seams and internal damp can indicate flat-roof failure. Learn when repair or replacement may be appropriate.
Flat roofs rely on sound coverings, correctly formed falls, clear outlets and well-detailed edges. A defect at any of those points can allow water into the deck and insulation.
Warning signs to investigate
- Water remaining in pools long after rainfall
- Blistering, cracking or splits in the covering
- Open seams, laps or edge details
- Damp marks, peeling paint or mould below the roof
- A soft, springy or visibly sagging roof deck
- Repeated leaks in different parts of an ageing roof
When a local repair may work
A relatively young roof with a single puncture, open lap or failed detail may be repairable if the surrounding covering and deck remain sound. The cause must be corrected rather than simply coating the visible area.
When replacement may be better value
Widespread material failure, persistent pooling caused by poor falls, a saturated or rotten deck and repeated patching can make renewal more reliable and economical. The quotation should explain the proposed system, deck work, insulation, drainage and upstands.
Do not inspect the roof by walking on it
A leaking flat roof may be fragile. Inspect from a safe position and use a competent roofer with appropriate access.