Roof leaks can damage inventory, stop production and deteriorate building components, causing great frustration to building owners. In an effort to solve these problems as quickly as possible, it is easy to make erroneous assumptions. Here are some common misconceptions:
- Purchasing a new roof system will stop all roof leaks.
- Visual inspection determines the source of all roof leaks.
- Spreading tar over a large roof area will stop the roof leak.
- All flat roofs leak; trusses and shingles are needed.
- Roof leaks are impossible to find and fix.
- A new roofing system requires no maintenance.
Not all roof leaks are caused by a deteriorated waterproofing materials. Many other building components can leak. Vulnerable HVAC equipment, masonry walls, plumbing fixtures, condensation lines, skylight frames and metal fascia systems are often mis-diagnosed as roof leaks. The mystery is compounded by the fact that many leaks only show up in severe weather conditions (violent thunderstorms or freezing rain). Also, roof leaks can "travel" from the actual penetration point 40 or 50 feet before falling to the building interior. These many variables make leak investigation and repair a tricky process. Repairs or Recomendations Sometimes the water test research process reveals that upgrading the roof assembly is the only solution. Typical upgrades are a perimiter base flashing replacement, or roof drain installation. Questions? Drop me a line |
Tom Sinclair About the House - Inspectors Fairhope, Alabama (251) 990-3169 www.InspectTestAnalyze.com |