Whether you’re working with a flat or a pitched roof, there are a number of common issues that are known to affect commercial buildings and can lead to roof failure.
Due to the size and scale of a commercial buildings, the necessary repair work can be costly and cause disruption to the day-to-day operation of your business.
The good news is that many common roof problems can be easily prevented with proactive management and the right protective coatings. Here, we’ll explore some of the most frequent issues for flat and pitched roofs and how they can be avoided or repaired.
Pitched Roofs
1. Leaks
Caused by weather, corrosion or damage – a roof leak is never good news. Water ingress into a commercial building brings a myriad of problems, from equipment damage and mould to disruption and time-consuming repairs.
A preventative and protective coating is a fast and simple way to get ahead of and improve the resilience and longevity of your roofing system. Designed for pitched roofs, Unicover provides a full waterproofing system with fast-application and up to 20 years protection.
2. Corrosion
Metal roofing and cladding is a popular choice for commercial buildings as it offers long-lasting protection and defence against most kinds of corrosion and degradation.
However, cut edge corrosion is a common and pervasive problem for steel core coil coated materials used in vertical and pitched roofing applications. As they are cut to size to fit the building in question, the ‘cut edges’ are left without coating and exposed to the elements.
Over time, weathering leads to corrosion and damage to the sheet edges, and left untreated, cut-edge corrosion can weaken the sheet edges and lead to water ingress.
At Tor, we have a simple and proactive approach to tackling cut edge corrosion. Our Unicover EdgeProtect system offers a cost-effective solution by sealing and safeguarding corroded edges.
3. Scuffing & Scratching
Like any surface, metal pitched roofs can be scratched, scuffed and otherwise damaged during their lifetime. Debris, falling leaves, overhanging branches and even local wildlife can all combine to create surface damage. Often these scratches and scuffs are superficial, however, some scratches can gouge to the core of the metal panel, damaging its protective coating and leading to a costly replacement.
At Tor Coatings, we’ve developed our Unicover systems to maintain and protect many types of pitched roof including Plastisol, PVF2, Asbestos cement and more. Multi-surface and easy to use, enjoy peace of mind with strong, long-lasting protection after just one coat.
4. Weather damage
Throughout the year, your pitched roof and vertical cladding will be subject to rain, snow, frost and UV light from the sun. Left unchecked they are at risk of fading, degrading and deteriorating to such an extent that replacement is necessary.
The Unicover S system is designed as a cost-effective way to extend the lifespan of cladding and roofing – avoiding the need for costly replacements. Applied in just two coats with custom colour-matched shades, this multi-surface coating offers up to 20 years of protection against the elements.
And for metal sheet roof systems, Ultra S can be combined with our Elastaseal Z system to provide a long-lasting, hybrid waterproof coating.
Flat Roofs
1. Leaks
Due to their design, flat roofs are susceptible to leaks and water ingress. Pooling or ponding water seeping through the roof can cause problems with mould and mildew. And asphalt roofs are known to contract and expand with changing temperatures, which can cause the flashing to pull away from the edges, leading to leaks.
Keeping on top of roof maintenance with regular inspections is key to keeping your flat roof in good condition. Protect against leaks with our liquid-applied, joint-free Elastaseal Z waterproofing solution and make quick and easy repairs with Raincoat W, our fast-drying patch repair solution that offers rapid rain resistance and five years of protection.
2. Wind Damage
Strong winds can cause considerable damage to flat roofs. If the wind is strong enough, negative pressure will lift away the roof membrane allowing the wind to get beneath the roof system, resulting in significant damage, a safety risk to the local area and a hefty repair bill.
And, flat roofs that have been incorrectly installed are at a greater risk of higher levels of damage.
That’s why we make site surveys a priority for every project. At the start of any roofing project, our team of experts will make wind uplift calculations to ensure the the right roofing fixings and correct level of protective coatings are applied. Get in touch to book your free site survey today.
3. Pooling Water
Flat roofs can be subject to pooling or ponding water which, left untreated, can cause real damage to your roof and the structural integrity of the building beneath.
A thorough and regular maintenance schedule to check drainage and clear leaves and debris from outlets, ensuring the free flow of water is vital. And, to further extend the lifespan of your flat roof, a waterproofing system will maximise protection against leaks from pooling water.
Elastaseal Z is a seamless, joint-free waterproof barrier that’s specially designed to repel water. Fast, easy to apply and effective, even in areas with poor drainage, enjoy peace-of-mind protection for up to 30 years.
4. Cracking and Splitting
The nature of a flat roof means they undergo more pressure than a slanted or pitched roof. This pressure can build up over time and sometimes result in cracks and splits. A crack or split is not something that can be ignored and should be resolved immediately as it can signal that your roof is structurally compromised.
Contacting a professional to inspect your roof is the first port of call with roof damage. At Tor our expert team will undertake a free condition report survey to comprehensively assess the condition of your building and make recommendations for next steps.
A Tor Coatings solution for every roof
We know that every building and every roof is different and comes with its own unique set of potential issues.
Often, a hybrid of different protective coating systems is required to create custom solution for your, individual project.
That’s why the first port of call for every roofing project is a free site survey, to asses your individual needs and find a solution that’s tailor-made to the needs of your building. Find out more here.