Older homes and areas with dry climates frequently have flat roofs, which are largely level. These roofs function well, but you should occasionally check them for cracks and other signs of degradation. Asphalt, rubber, PVC, or another synthetic substance is what flat roofs are often made of. Asphalt can be fixed using caulk or resealed with bitumen, whereas rubber and synthetic membranes can frequently be quickly mended with adhesive patches. As long as you are diligent about repairs, unless your roof is in extremely terrible form, you can avoid serious damage and extend the life of your roof.
Step By Step Instructions Of Repairing A Leaking Flat Roof
Flat roofs are less expensive to install than shingled roofs and provide modern homes sleek, flat lines. Despite all of their advantages, flat roofs have a particular set of difficulties. In actuality, repairs could be necessary more often than with shingled roofs. The advantage is that you don't have to deal with challenging, interlocking shingles when fixing a flat roof. Instead, it's a straightforward repair that only requires the two components rubberized wet patch and reinforcing fabric.
Tools & Materials Needed
- Four-Inch Putty Knife
- Utility Knife
- Wire Brush
- Waterproof Gloves
- Safety Glasses
- Extension Ladder
- Rubberized Roofing Wet Patch
- Roof Reinforcing Repair Fabric
- Mineral Spirits
- Cotton Rags
Step 1: Remove Damaged Portion
Remove the damaged section of the roofing by using the utility knife. To ensure that the entire damaged area will be repaired, cut at least one to two inches beyond the damaged area.
Step 2: Clean Damaged Area
Large items of trash like pebbles, twigs, or leaves should be brushed away. Rust on fasteners or flashing should be brushed off. Use cotton cloths and mineral spirits to clean the patch area and a few inches beyond while wearing waterproof gloves. Give the mineral spirits some time to dry.
Step 3: Cut Reinforcing Tape To Size
The patch-up area's size should be determined. Reinforcing tape should be cut to cover this area plus an additional two inches past the patch. Reinforcing tape can be layered in multiple rows.
Step 4: Fill Depression With Wet Patch
Depressions must be raised to the same level as the surrounding roof deck since they will collect water and perhaps leak. Fill in the depression with the wet patch and putty knife. To prevent the patch from drying out unexpectedly, move on to the following procedure right away. In temperatures above 0°F and below 120°F, apply wet patch. The majority of wet patch repair materials can be used on wet surfaces, but the greatest results are typically obtained when using dry surfaces.
Step 5: Set Reinforcing Tape
On the wet patch material, lay the reinforcing tape loosely. Wear safety glasses and water-resistant gloves. The tape needs to be level. Any ridges, folds, buckles, or creases will let water seep into the patched area.
Step 6: Embed Reinforcing Tape
With the putty knife, apply pressure to the patch tape. Hold one end of the patch tape down with a gloved hand to prevent it from moving. Apply light pressure as you glide the putty knife along the length of the patch tape. The moist patch material should sunk into the tape.
Step 7: Apply Top Layer Of Wet Patch
Apply a top coat of wet patch with the putty knife, extending the patch two to four inches beyond the lower patch. Apply the moist patch in a layer between 1/8" and 1/4" thick. Incorporate the damp patch's margins into the roofing material's surface. Avoid making ridges along the edges since they may eventually peel up.
Step 8: Clean Tools
Before the wet patch dries, clean instruments with mineral spirits right away. In about two hours, the patch on the flat roof should be fully dry.
When To Repair A Flat Roof
When you notice mould or mildew odours in your home, excessive energy costs, watermarks or mould stains on the ceiling, cracks in the roofing material, or if the roofing material is peaked, cracked, creased, or pulling up, it's probably time to get your flat roof repaired. Multiple patches increase the number of seams where water can seep in. So, when a flat roof develops numerous patches over time, it is typically a sign that the roof needs to be replaced.