Is Your Flat Roof Vulnerable to Sun Damage?

While flat roofing membranes are designed to withstand constant exposure to the harsh Florida sun, roofing contractors and experts still warn homeowners and property managers about potential problems heat can cause. Felt and bitumen-based roofing systems are particularly prone to heat-related issues so it’s important to take extra precautions to keep them well protected.

Defending against heat damage begins with understanding how heat can affect a flat roofing system. Let our roofing experts at CQ Construction walk you through the common problems your flat roof faces under the hot Floridian summers.

Blisters

Perhaps the most visible problem you can spot during a routine roof inspection is blisters. Blisters begin as small cracks in the membrane. Water penetrates these cracks over time and when the water evaporates, it expands causing blisters to appear. The blisters result in more cracks which results in further blistering.

Expansion and Contraction

Unlike other materials, rubber actually contracts when heated and expands when cooled. Regardless, rubber-based flat roofing membranes are still prone to tearing and breaking due to constant temperature changes. Newer and more modern roofing systems, however, take thermal expansion into account, making them less vulnerable to thermal damage.

Faulty Flashing

Problems with the flashing often require immediate roof repair visits to address. The flashing strips that cover the edges of roofing structures as well as the perimeter of the flat roof itself can form a warm and moist environment under the sun. This makes them the ideal place for fungi to grow and spread, which can cause discoloration problems and, over time, degradation.

Learn more heat-related flat roofing problems as well as tips on how to avoid them with the help of our roofing professionals at CQ Construction, your trusted local provider of roof repair, installation and maintenance services. Give us a call at (850) 683-4169or fill out our contact form to schedule an inspection visit or request a free estimate today. We serve property and homeowners in Fort Walton Beach, as well as other neighboring communities in FL.