Flat roofs offer homeowners a wide variety of benefits: they impart a clean, modernist profile, are cheaper to install, and are a great place to set up a garden or deck. So it’s no wonder they have become such a popular architectural feature in modern urban houses.
But this style also require a more hands-on approach when it comes to maintenance, and getting the most out of your flat roof means being willing to take care of regular maintenance and repair work.
This is especially true during the crucial times between seasons. For those living in a more temperate northern climate, it is essentially to take special care during the spring months, when heavy rainfall, debris, and rapid changes of temperature can lead to leaks and even flooding if the roof is not properly cared for.
If you want to make sure this part of your house is ready for spring, here are three things you should make sure to check up on:
1. Are the Drains Clear?
The number one danger to this architectural style is pooling water caused by clogged drains, and clogs are particularly common in the spring and fall. When it is safe to do so, go up on your roof and check to see what condition your drains are in, and if you notice any problems, remove any blockages you find with a drain snake as quickly as possible. You may also want to install a drain strainer to catch any further debris that may accumulate.
2. Are There Rips or Holes in the Membrane?
Winter puts a lot of stress on your roof, and when spring comes around you should undertake a thorough inspection to see whether any rips, holes, or punctures have appeared since fall. Falling tree branches, ice, hail, and animals can all cause damage in the winter, and the last thing you want to be worried about during spring showers is whether or not you are going to have to worry about leaks.
If you don’t have any experience patching membranes yourself, make sure you get in touch with a company in your area that specializes in repairs on your type of house. And of course, if you have any questions about whether your membrane needs to be replaced, you should call to learn more about the different repair options available to you.
3. Is it Protected for Summer Use?
Finally, if you use your flat roof for recreation during the summer, it is important to make sure the membrane is protected from foot traffic. Installing a flat roof deck can be quite easy, and it will extend its life by years.
There are many different materials you can use, from removable tiles to more permanent floating structures. But whatever materials you select, make sure they can be quickly removed in the event that you need to get to the membrane and drains.
A flat roof is a desirable asset to have in any house, but making sure yours is a blessing and not a curse means investing in the care needed to maintain it. Spring is the perfect time to get yours summer-ready by clearing drains, checking the membrane, and preparing it for summer use.
