Knowing when to repair a flat roof and when to replace it can save you a lot of time and hassle. A small, isolated problem can usually be fixed. But a roof that keeps leaking in different places is telling you something.
Signs a repair should do the job
- A single leak you can trace to one spot, such as a split, a lifted joint or a failed detail at an upstand.
- Surface damage from a fallen branch, a dropped tool or foot traffic.
- A blocked outlet or gutter causing water to back up.
- A roof that's otherwise in good condition and not very old.
Signs it's time to replace
- Leaks in more than one place, or leaks that come back after being repaired.
- Widespread cracking, blistering or splitting across the surface.
- A soft or spongy deck underfoot, which usually means water has got into the boards.
- Large areas of standing water days after rain, because the falls have gone.
- An old felt roof that's simply reached the end of its life.
When the deck itself is wet or rotten, putting a new covering on top only hides the problem. In that case, replacing the roof properly is usually the better long-term answer and the better value for money.
Get it looked at properly
From the ground, it's hard to tell how far damage has spread. A flat roof inspection by an experienced roofer shows what's really going on: the condition of the membrane, the details, the outlets and the deck underneath.
When Chris looks at your roof, he'll tell you honestly whether a repair will last or whether you'd be throwing good money after bad. If a repair is the right call, we'll repair it. If it isn't, we'll explain why and quote for a replacement in EPDM, GRP or felt.
Repairs we do carry a 1-year guarantee, and new roofs a minimum of 5 years. If your flat roof is leaking in Exeter, Chudleigh or Newton Abbot, call 07803 365 251 or see our roof repairs and flat roofing pages.
Need a roofer in Exeter?
Call Chris for honest advice and a free, no-obligation quote.