Single-ply roofing systems are one of the most useful commercial roofing options available today. Unfortunately, like most materials, they are not without their own list of pros and cons. Luckily, problems with single-ply membranes rarely incur a high roof repair cost. You can further minimize any issues by familiarizing yourself with the common troubles that plague this practical roofing choice.
Let our skilled roofing contractors at The Great American Roofing Company walk you through some of the most common single-ply roofing problems and offer you tips on how to avoid, resolve and prevent them.
Breaking Seams
Membranes used in single-ply roofing can vary in size but the usual standard can be up to 30 feet across. Covering an entire flat roof will require multiple membranes attached together with hot air or solvents. These seams are then reinforced with some flat roof ballast. However, regular wear and tear can damage these connections, allowing water to penetrate the membrane and damage the roof structure from the inside. A routine inspection by a trained roofer can help you identify problem areas before they become worse. Sign up for a maintenance program to keep your roof in shape all year-round.
Wind Damage
Uplift problems more commonly occur in residential shingle roofing, but they are not uncommon with single-ply roofing systems as well. Membrane sheets are usually mechanically fastened at the edges of a flat roof. Over time, these fasteners can deteriorate, causing the membranes to become vulnerable to wind uplift.
Contraction
Single-ply membranes lose their elasticity as they age and the constantly changing temperatures can cause shrinkage problems on the entire sheet. When membrane sheets shrink, they can pull against their fasteners and flashing, causing tears and even complete breakage. Unfortunately, this type of problem will need a full replacement to resolve.
Get top-quality single-ply membrane roofing products and installation services from The Great American Roofing Company. Give us a call at (201) 515-2007 or fill out our contact form to request a free roof repair estimate today.