Florida’s flat roofs face unique challenges from intense UV radiation, ponding water during heavy rains, and thermal expansion from extreme temperature fluctuations. When your commercial or residential flat roof shows signs of damage, prompt professional repair is essential to prevent costly interior damage and maintain your property’s protection.
Florida’s frequent downpours can overwhelm inadequate drainage systems, causing water to pool on flat surfaces. Water pooling accelerates membrane deterioration, creates leaks, and adds structural weight. We repair and upgrade drainage systems, install additional drains, and correct slope issues to ensure proper water flow.
Water stains on ceilings or walls are often the first sign you’ll notice when your roof is damaged. These stains may appear as discolored patches, rings, or streaks and can indicate active leaks or past water infiltration. Even if stains appear dry, they suggest that water has found a path through your roof system and could reactivate during future weather events. The actual source of the leak may be far from where stains appear, as water can travel along structural elements before manifesting inside.
Intense Florida sun causes roofing membranes to blister, crack, and deteriorate over time. on flat roof surfaces, causing materials to expand and contract repeatedly. We repair punctures, seal splits, and replace damaged membrane sections using materials specifically designed for Florida’s harsh climate.
Flashing around roof penetrations, edges, and transitions is critical for maintaining a watertight seal. When flashing becomes loose, corroded, or damaged, it creates direct pathways for water infiltration. Common signs include rust on metal flashing, separation from surfaces, or visible gaps and holes. Since flashing protects the most vulnerable areas of your roof system, damaged flashing often leads to leaks that can cause significant interior damage before they’re detected.
The lifespan of a flat roof depends on the material used. EPDM rubber roofs can last 20-25 years, TPO and PVC membranes typically last 15-20 years, modified bitumen systems last 10-20 years, and built-up roofing (BUR) can last 15-30 years. Proper installation, regular maintenance, and climate conditions significantly impact longevity.
Simple patch repairs can be completed in a few hours to one day. Moderate repairs involving flashing or drainage issues typically take 1-3 days. Extensive repairs or partial roof replacement can take 3-7 days, depending on weather conditions and the scope of work.
First, identify and contain interior water damage using buckets or tarps. If possible, locate the source of the leak from inside and mark it. Contact a professional immediately. Avoid walking on wet or damaged roof areas due to safety risks.
Professional inspections should occur atleast every 2 years. Additionally, inspect your roof after severe storms, or any time you notice interior signs of water damage. Monthly visual checks from ground level can help identify obvious problems early.
There are many professional roof cleaning companies who will clean your roof, but they use high-pressure wash and harsh chemicals which harm your landscaping and the environment. Their efforts could even void any warranties still active on your roof. To get a clean roof without this unnecessary damage, a soft wash with an all-natural cleaning solution is needed.
Kelly Roofing will help you restore your roof to its like-new condition, without damaging your roof, your warranty, or the environment.
You want your flat roof to look great all the time. Just like any other roof, keeping your flat roof clean will extend its life and reduce damage. Keeping the drains and gutters clear of debris is an important first step. Dirt, algae, moss, and fungi can also collect and slowly cause damage.
