Flat roofs are a great addition to your home, being especially effective atop garages, orangeries or even home extensions. Not only do they take up less space, but they are easier, faster and more affordable to install, making them a favourable option to many.
However, due to their horizontal nature, it’s important that you keep up with your flat roof maintenance to avoid potential damage and mitigate the chances of needing to face costly repairs – especially so during the autumn months due to the shift in weather.
We’ve listed our top four tips below for maintaining your flat roof throughout the next few months.
1 | Keep Free of Debris
In comparison to sloped roofs, flat roofs attract more debris, such as leaves, twigs and moss. If there are any deciduous trees near your roof, then the accumulation of this debris is even more likely at this time of year due to falling leaves and stronger winds blowing debris onto your roof.
Always keep an eye on how much debris your roof is collecting and remember to clear this off periodically (especially after stormy weather!), as this could otherwise lead to water retention and promote the growth of algae and mould.
2 | Clean Gutters and Drains
Though these shouldn’t have an effect on your roof if functioning as they should be, if you have blocked gutters and drains then your flat roof may also face some problems.
If your gutters are blocked, then any water on your roof will have nowhere to go to drain away, meaning it will instead stay on your roof and collect there. As such, ensure that you regularly clean your gutters and drains and check them for potential blockages.
3 | Address Any Ponding Water
Damage, debris or natural settling over time can lead to ponding water – a common issue with flat roofs. This is where standing water collects on your roof without draining away.
Keep your eye out for ponding water, especially after rainfall; if you notice that any accumulated water hasn’t dissipated after 48 hours, then consider improving the drainage system of your flat roof or consulting a professional roofer to evaluate the situation.
4 | Carry Out Regular Inspections
Alongside all of these specific tips we’ve mentioned thus far, the key takeaway you should remember is to inspect your flat roof regularly.
In performing regular inspections, you will be able to notice any signs of damage or identify where specific maintenance action needs to be taken to avoid such damage from occurring in the first place.
Single Ply Roofing in Oxford
If you’re looking to have flat roofs installed or replaced at your property, then reach out to us here at James Dunn Roofing – your trusted roofing contractors in Oxfordshire.
We have the knowledge, skills and expertise to install both single ply and felt roofing – both of which we do using top quality materials. We also offer flat roof insulation, if you’re looking to upgrade your roof in time for the colder months.
For more information regarding our services and how we can help you, then don’t hesitate to get in touch with us today.