A huge pooled rainwater mass is the primary reason for flat roof leaks in heavy rain. Water has a massive density in huge volumes. It will continue to push against the flat roof material until it bends and breaks under pressure over time.

However, even if your low-slope roof is properly sealed with all flashings in good shape, roof structures such as skylights and chimneys can play a huge role in increasing flat roof leaks in heavy rain. Flat Roofs by Pegram has a great explanation on the risks of skylights and chimney leaks.

Flat Roof Leaks in Heavy Rain: Roof Structure Risks

Leaking Skylight

It is not uncommon for skylights to leak during heavy rains. This does not necessarily mean the skylight is damaged, but that the condensation from the rain and runoff has a higher chance of leaking through.

Caulking has left gaps that rainwater is seeping into.

In most cases, placing a bucket under the leak will do as a temporary fix. After the rain stops, find a roofing inspector immediately to assess the damages from the leak.

Chimney Leaks

Chimneys are designed to do an adequate job of keeping the elements out, but your chimney could be the cause of your leaking roof. Homes with chimneys are commonly facing problems with roof leaks.

The outer structure of your chimney often retains water, which can make the roof leak in a hard rain.

You must also make sure the shingles and flashing surrounding the chimney are in proper working order.

The flashing is a piece of sheet metal that covers the overlapping areas of the chimney and roof. Two layers of flashing is applied to the chimney and roof, and a sealed with a high-quality urethane caulk.

Naturally this caulk becomes loose over time and creates a pocket for rainwater to seep in. Often times reapplying the caulking could work as chimney leak repair, but flashing may need additional maintenance and a trained eye. (Continued)

If flat roof leaks in heavy rain happen because of pooled rainwater, it does make sense to improve your low-slope gutter system. On high-slope properties, gutters act as a shield that prevents rainwater from saturating and destroying yards and gardens. Flat-roofed homes can do away with pooled water thanks to an efficient system.

Flat Roof Doctor has a great list of areas to inspect that will help gutter systems become clean and efficient to use. If you'd like to get your gutter systems in check, this is the list you need on hand.

Flat Roof Leaks in Heavy Rain: Inspecting Gutters Thoroughly



Flat Roof Debris and Gutter Drainage

Flat roofs collect an abundance of debris that can’t be removed daily. During rainstorms, this debris gets washed into the gutter trough and clogs it, preventing proper drainage. Over time debris accumulates in the trough, causing it to overflow, which compromises the exterior walls and the foundation with water infiltration.

It is essential to keep the roof free of debris at all times. Doing so, will allow water to flow freely to the tough, through the downspouts and leader pipes, and away from the building for proper drainage.

Tip:

If there are branches that hang over your flat roof, we recommend that you remove the debris from the roof and the gutters as often as you rake leaves or mow your lawns or yards. The easiest way to remove debris from flat roofs and gutters is to use a handheld leaf blower.

Flat Roof Edging and Gutters

Flat roofs should be pitched or sloped towards gutters for positive water flow. Even when they are, we often see that the edge of the roof is slightly higher due to a tar build-up, from repeated repairs, preventing water from flowing into the gutter. This can cause ponding on the roof, which can lead to leaks. Gutters should also be flush with fascia board to prevent water from flowing behind gutter troughs, if not, water will damage the walls or paint.

If you'd like to improve your low-slope roof gutter system or repair existing flat roof leaks in heavy rain, you can count on DDCL to help you. We have decades of experience serving Edmonton AB properties with knowledgeable, courteous, and dependable roofers. Contact us today to get started on your path to better residential roofing.

Learn More Here: The Most Effective Methods in Edmonton AB for Finding Flat Roof Leaks in Heavy Rain

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3613 Claxton Place SW

Edmonton, AB T6W 2B4

(780) 306-1908

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