How long do flat roofs last?

It depends on the material and how well water drains. Ponding and blocked drains shorten any membrane's life.

Can I walk on a flat roof?

Keep foot traffic to a minimum. Membranes puncture easily, and roofs can be weaker than they look.

Flat & Low-Slope Roof Repair in Dayton, OH

Why shingles don't work here

Shingles rely on slope to shed water. On a very low pitch, water backs up under them. Low-slope roofs use continuous membranes such as modified bitumen, EPDM rubber or TPO.

Common problems

Ponding water that sits for days after rain, blisters and cracks in the membrane, open seams, and leaks where the flat roof meets a wall or the main roof.

Winter on a flat roof

Snow and ice can sit on a flat roof for weeks. Freeze-thaw cycles work into seams and flashing, so a spring check is worth doing.

Repair or replace

Small punctures and open seams can often be patched. A membrane that's cracked all over, or decking that's gone soft, usually means replacement.

Drainage

Scuppers, drains and gutters must stay clear. Adding tapered insulation can help water run off instead of ponding.

Get it checked

Tell the roofer what the roof covers and where it leaks. Send a request and a roofer will get in touch.

Leaves and debris

Low-slope roofs under trees collect leaves that block drains and hold water against the membrane. Clearing them in late fall and again in spring helps the roof drain and last longer.

Coatings

Some membranes can be cleaned and coated to extend their life, but a coating won't fix soft decking or failed seams. Ask the roofer whether the roof underneath is sound enough for it.

Where it meets the house

The joint between a low-slope roof and the wall or main roof is where most leaks start. Good flashing, carried up the wall and under siding, matters more than the membrane itself.