Saturday, March 23, 2024
HomeReplaceHow To Replace A Flat Roof

How To Replace A Flat Roof

What Causes Winter Roof Leaks

How To Replace A Flat Roof – Argyle Roofing Contractors

When the winter season arrives, however, a flat roof must withstand a whole new set of environmental challenges. Roof leaks are notorious for occurring only in winter. In spring and summer, a flat roof usually remains dry and intact, despite heavy rains and thunderstorms.

Winter roof leaks are caused by any number of possible causes. Ice dams are a well-known source of roof leaks. Ridges of ice that form at the edge of the roof block the flow of water. Trapped water leaks into small holes in the roof and into the interior building.

Water infiltration can happen when a roof has faulty seams. Roof seams are located between rolls of membrane or between panels. As temperatures rise in the aftermath of heavy snowfalls, the rapidly melting runoff can penetrate the seams and allow moisture leaks inside the property.

Roof membranes are susceptible to cracking, especially on older rooftops. Though roof membranes typically maintain a watertight seal the rest of the year, winters repeated cycles of freezing and thawing can eventually stress roof membranes. Cracks in the membranes allow water to infiltrate.

The lateral movement of drifting snow makes flashing vulnerable. The blowing snow has the opportunity to enter the flashing and melt, which leads to a roof leak. Leaks that penetrate the flashing only during the winter season are likely in even newly and well-built roofs.

Dont Miss: Are Metal Roofs Better For Hurricanes

What Goes Into Repairing A Flat Roof

Flat roofsrequire a lot of knowledge and expertise when being maintained, repaired, orreplaced its essential that you use a qualified roofing company.

The bestrepair method for a flat roof is prevention. You should have qualifiedprofessionals inspect the roof semi-annually or after major storms, etc. Theycan identify any minor issues and repair them before they become major issues.They will also be able to identity if your roof needs repaired or replaced.Sometimes a roof may beyond repair and needs to be totally replaced. As ageneral rule, flat roofs need to be replaced every 10-15 years so a good placeto start is to find out how old your roof is.

One of thecommon flat roof issues mentioned earlier was the pooling of water. This iswhere liquid collects and can cause damage to the roofing materials. There maybe various reasons for water pooling but sometimes it may be as simple as thepitch of the roof being off. In this case, you can add a tapered insulationwhen replacing your flat roof. This will allow water to run off into thegutters and prevent pooling.

Rotteddecking is another issue often caused by leaking roofs. Many roofs are covered with a base sheet anda modified bitumen cap sheet. The cap sheet can be installed by hot moppingasphalt or torch applied. This is important to note because in order todetermine whether the decking is rotting, you need to strip away the felt inthe areas that are leaking to determine whether a roof needs replacing or if itcan be repaired.

How Much Does A Flat Roof Replacement Cost

If its time to replace your flat roof, your biggest concern is probably how much it will cost you. Unfortunately, its hard to find anything cost-related because the roofing industry doesnt like to talk about it.

We understand how frustrating that is to homeowners like you. After all, how can you be comfortable spending your hard-earned money on a flat roof replacement without an idea of the price?

Here at Bill Ragan Roofing, we want to take those frustrations off your shoulders. Thats why well be giving you an idea of the budget youll need for a flat roof replacement.

But before we get to the cost, you need to know which type of material is right for your flat roof replacement.

Also Check: How To Get A Loan For A New Roof

The Benefits Of Epdm For Your Roof

EPDM rubber is the perfect material for a flat roof repair or replacement for a variety of reasons. If youre searching for a new roof for your shed or outbuilding, then EPDM is the ideal product.

The benefits of EPDM include:

  • Water-Resistant
  • Up to 50-year life expectancy
  • Incredibly durable
  • Works on a variety of roofs
  • Looks sleek and professional

At Rubber Roofing Direct, were here to provide you with any information you need for your flat roof repair and replacement project. For more information on EPDM rubber and how it can benefit your roof, check out our FAQ section.

If you cant find the answer you need, or you just want to talk to an expert, then give us a call on or contact us here.

We have hundreds of satisfied customers because of the many benefits of working with our expert team. These benefits include:

  • As they start from £8.99, our EPDM rubber roofing solutions are cost-effective
  • We have the best prices on the market so you get true value
  • Quick & simple installation
  • EPDM lasts up to 50 years
  • Waterproof and long-lasting, its perfect for the Great British weather

Keep your flat roof and its contents well protected from only £9.60 + VAT per square metre.

Save money and buy your FlexiProof EPDM online from Rubber Roofing Direct shop now. We have all the solutions and tools youll need to complete your next project, so you dont need to look anywhere else.

How To Fix A Leaking Flat Roof

Should You Go With A Roof Repair or Roof Replacement?

Finding a leaking roof yourself from the inside of your property is possible, especially if it is a small leak.

Start by measuring the distance from the spot where you can see the leak to the nearest two walls, and then use those measurements to locate the leak on the outside of the rooftop itself.

Note that the majority of flat rooftops have a slight slope in order to allow for runoff, so you should start trying to locate the leak from the possible point of entrance on the roof, since the water will naturally run downhill.

Of course, you should also start by looking for rips, punctures, worn spots, loose or popping screws, separations in the seams, or other issues with your flat roof membrane.

If you dont find any obvious damage, youll want to check out the vent pipe boots, the caulk around the vents, flashing, and related structures for holes, damages, or other imperfections.

If you do all of this and still cant locate any leaks, call in a professional flat roof contractor as soon as possible to find the leak and repair them.

Having the materials and tools on how to repair a flat roof is also essential, youll need replacement materials and basic tools on hand at the very least so if that seems overly complex, call a professional to take care of your roof damage issues.

Don’t Miss: What Is The Cost Of Tesla Solar Roof

What Type Of Roof Do You Want

You must first decide which kind of flat roof you desire. There are plenty to choose from, so its important to first research which is best for you. Next, youll have to shop around for the best materials within your budget.

Removing the previous roof can be difficult and you should only use specialist tools such as a scraper. The same goes for decking beneath the roof surface!

If any of the decking has rotted, this must be carefully removed and replaced which can be tricky and may cause damage to the buildings structure.

How Much Does A Membrane Flat Roof Replacement Cost

You should budget between around $14.00-$17.00 per square foot for a smaller membrane flat roof replacement and around $12.00 per square foot on slightly larger projects. When you get into larger commercial projects, the cost per square foot drastically decreases.

If youre using insulation thats thick enough to insulate the entire structure, it will cost more than if you’re just using fabric insulation and gluing the membrane to it.

Recommended Reading: When Will Insurance Pay For A New Roof

Ensuring The Professional Is The Right Fit

The most important piece of advice is to ask your builder questions so you know what your quote includes:

  • Will the old felt be removed and the new felt added?
  • Is there a separate breakdown of timber costs if theyre needed?
  • Will old materials will be taken away?
  • And, if required, how much will scaffolding cost?

Second to this, once youve settled on a trader you want to ask for a written quotation. This is something essential to refer back to in the event of any disagreement or misunderstanding during the job, which gives both parties a point of reference which isnt just relying on someones memory of a conversation you both had weeks ago.

Youll want to seek out the traders experience, as well as their references from relevant and recent jobs. Although a trader might have a glowing back catalogue of work, its best to check the year in which it was completed, as regulations can change, skills can improve or decline or working teams may change, meaning what you see in someones portfolio mightnt necessarily be what you get.

All traders should carry insurance to cover both themselves and you in the event of any issues, so just cover all bases and check for proof of this before agreeing to work with an individual. If they refuse to show you or make a fuss about you even asking, its best to take it as a sign to step away, as if theyre withholding this information what else might they be hiding?

Dont Stand On Your Roof

The 5 Steps of a Flat Roof Replacement.

Unless your flat roof has been specifically installed to be able to be stood on, flat roofs are not designed to hold a persons body weight. By standing on the roof you can cause damage to the material, encouraging splitting and leaks, as well as being a general risk to your own safety. If you cannot reach an area of the roof to clean or mend yourself, hire a professional who is experienced in flat roof maintenance to do it for you.

Also Check: How To Build A Gable Roof Over A Deck

Ethylene Propylene Diene Monomer

EPDM or rubber membrane is a very durable flat roofing material that is easy to install and maintain, thanks to its lightweight and pliability. This material can be installed either with glue, anchored with fasteners, or ballasted with stone. Rubber membranes are generally durable and highly resistant to sun rays, water, scuffs, and rips

*** Thanksgiving Recipes ***

These roasted brussels sprouts get a fair amount of spice from the crushed red pepper flakes, which cuts

After trying every turkey-roasting method under the sun, Ive finally settled on this as absolutely the

We love how the cinnamon-scented streusel topping lets the juicy berries peek through.

Italian sausage and a heap of Parmesan cheese lend signature flair to the easy Thanksgiving dressing

Its all about the layers and ruffles in this dramatic seasonal pie.

Poach quince in rosé with a dash of cocktail bitters and a few warm spices, then assemble into a tart

Leave the sausage, nuts, dried fruit behind in favor of this easy, vegetarian-friendly stuffing recipe

Alton Browns turkey brine recipe from Good Eats will give you a flavorful Thanksgiving turkey with juicy

Bone-in turkey breasts are easy to find, and as impressive as a whole bird when you roast them in butter

This recipe was handed down by my great-grandmother. It is a family favorite that we make every Thanksgiving.

Cutting leeks into large pieces gives them a presence equal

This crunchy crumble is the perfect topping for an ice cream sundae, easy apple crumble, or our Build-Your-Own

Also Check: How Long Does Roof Coating Last

Also Check: What Goes Under Metal Roofing

Why Choose Epdm Flat Roofing For Your Property

If youre looking for a flat roofing system that is durable and robust, then EPDM rubber roofing could be the perfect solution for you. Our EPDM membrane is designed to give quality cover to a variety of roofing systems, including flat roofs, sheds, and more. EPDM roofing is easy to install, making this membrane a great choice for anyone who wants to install their own roofing system.

Its also durable and long-lasting, meaning that you wont have to replace your roof for many years. Youll also save time and money on maintenance and cleaning, unlike traditional materials like felt and asphalt. So, if youre looking for a low-maintenance solution for your property, then this could be ideal.

Whether youre in the trade, or youre a homeowner looking to fix your roof yourself, weve got the products and solutions that you need. Our range of roof solutions and services will ensure that your project goes without a hitch and the outcome brings you pride for years to come.

If you need the product alone, we can provide it, but our kits give you everything you need in one handy package. You wont have to buy anything else- the kit comes with all the tools you need, as well as for instructions on how to use it. If youre still unsure, then we offer a range of online training videos that will make the process straightforward, even if youre not a professional roofer.

Roof Restoration To Extend The Life Of Your Flat Roof

Complete PVC Flat Roof Installation Guide (With images)

Roof restorations make your roof new again and resolve existing roofing issues. That way, you wouldnt have to change your roof which is a costly project.

If this is your first time to hear about a roof restoration service, heres what its about. Roofing restoration entails cleaning the roof, repairing, and replacing some materials to make it brand new. Previously, we featured a guide about roof restoration. In there, we explained that a roof restoration improves your flat roof in various ways so it lasts longer:

  • Makes your building more energy-efficient
  • Improves the overall look of your commercial roofing system
  • Strengthens your roof so that it becomes resilient to environmental damage

Here at Cox Roofing Systems, we also offer quality restoration services. We recommend our exclusive TTR which combines EPDM and polyurethane insulation.

You May Like: Does Homeowners Insurance Cover Roof Leaks

Recommended Reading: Who Can Install Tesla Solar Roof

Your Homes Existing Architecture May Affect Your Flat Roofing Replacement

If youve looked at all the alternatives and determine that a roofing conversion is really the best option for your home, its time to start planning your homes new architectural design. There are a couple of different ways to go about a conversion. You can install a shallow pitched roof over your existing flat roof, add a trussed ranch-style roof to convert to cathedral walls, or even build a new floor and install the pitched roof above that.

Either way, your homes existing design may interfere or affect the changes you can make. For instance, if youre not building a new floor into your home, your design may be limited if the existing ceiling joists arent arranged correctly. That means you may have to tear out the ceilings below the roof as well.

An architect or structural engineer should be able to provide advice on whats possible in your homeand what additional changes youll need to make before you can get your dream roof.

What Is A Flat Roof

Flat roofs may not be as common as other types of materials like asphalt shingles, but they can often be found on certain styles of homes. Theyre characterized by having little to no pitch or slope. Since this may allow water to puddle, these roofs must be covered with a special type of material. In this blog, well discuss the flat roof replacement cost for the various materials.

Recommended Reading: What Type Of Roof Should I Get

Average Flat Roof Replacement Costs In 2022

National Average Cost
Extreme High End Cost $42,000

Expect to spend somewhere in between $4,300 and $19,100 to replace a 1,000 square foot roof with flat roofing material. How can you tell if your project will be closer to the low or high end of that range? It mainly depends on the type of flat roof you want, the cost of labor in your area, and the structure of your roof.

If the area of roof you need replaced is smaller than 1,000 square feet, your cost might fall below this typical range, but dont expect to spend less than $2,500. Larger projects can cost as much as $42,000, or sometimes even more for extremely large buildings.

Punctures Splitting Cracking Blistering & Stretching

Replacing a garage flat roof

Unfortunately, when heavily exposed to UV rays and harsh weathering over a long period of time, you may notice that your flat roof has begun to split, crack, blister or even stretch without returning to its original shape. This can be a common issue with materials such as EPDM as it reaches the end of its lifespan.

Damages such as these can compromise the structural integrity of your roof so it may be safest option to go for a complete replacement.

Don’t Miss: Will A New Roof Lower My Home Insurance

Flat Roof Repair Cost

Rather than give you an arbitrary figure for an average flat roof repair cost , we feel it would be better to give you a checklist you can follow to prepare yourself for contacting a roofing company.

A flat roof will need to be repaired if you experience water leaks, internal damage, wooden timbers rotting, water pools, etc.

In general, if a flat roof is left too long with one of the above problems it will lead to the repair cost being substantially higher. For example, if you left a flat roof water leak for 1 year it can impact the structural soundness of a building due to water rotting the wooden timbers beneath.

Heres a DIY flat roof inspection checklist for you to follow to determine whether you need flat roof repair or replacement:

  • Signs of punctures a rusty nail for example.
  • Rips, tears and cracks usually due to harsh weather, UV rays and building movements over time.
  • Damaged or missing flashing
  • Visible sagging normally in the middle of the roof.
  • Water pools and leaks
  • No sealing or gaps between layers
  • Length of time problem has occurred or since last upgrade
  • If you can see you have any of these problems then it might be time to call a qualified flat roofer to inspect further. Depending on the scale of the problem the flat roof repair cost can range from £150 all the way up to several £1000.

    RELATED ARTICLES

    Most Popular