Flat Roof Inspection and Common Membrane Issues

Roof inspections aim to identify malfunctioning components of your roof. Routinely checking your roof’s condition is essential to extend its lifespan.


In today’s post, your leading metal roofing provider, Earl W. Johnston Roofing, LLC, explains how flat roofs are inspected.

How Flat Roofs Are Inspected

The inspection starts by observing the flat roof from the ground. The perimeter-edge flashing will be carefully observed for irregularities that may require a closer look. On masonry homes, the top of the exterior walls will be inspected for any efflorescence, which might be due to a leak.

The inspector will inspect the interior ceilings, walls and attics for signs of water damage before going up to the roof. Most flat roofs have various layers where a leak may start. Only hire an experienced roofing contractor to locate and repair leaks.

Your decking will also be checked for defects such as rusting. A rusty decking may be a sign of high humidity levels in the indoor space and failing roofing. The inside of the decking may also be significantly damaged if there’s rust on the surface.

Keep in mind that only professionals should climb a roof. This is to prevent roofing damage and for your safety. There are areas of the roof that can’t be walked on. How the surface feels underfoot can often determine the condition of the roof. A sunken or spongy-feeling area can be a sign of wet and damaged insulation. In some cases, you can hear the water squishing as you walk or it can squirt out of the membrane.

Common Membrane Issues

1. Lap Issues – Laps are important on flat roofs and should be fully and uniformly adhered. They should be inspected for short laps, overheating, voids and seal defects.

2. Blisters – Moisture, air or vapor entrapment and poor adhesion are common causes of blisters. Blisters that aren’t moisture-related, not within a walking path, and in a lap are usually not an issue and don’t require repair.

3. Splits – Splits due to stress or movement often indicate that the flashings have failed.

4. Wrinkles – Movement in the membrane and faulty installation causes wrinkles, which can then lead to splitting.

5. Membrane Movement or Migration – Thermal forces, poor adhesion and using the wrong membrane type typically result in movement of the membrane.

For quality roof maintenance services, contact Earl W. Johnston Roofing, LLC. We are your leading provider of flat, metal, shingle and tile roofing. Call us at (954) 989-7794 fill out our online form for a free quote. We serve clients in Weston, Hollywood and Ft Lauderdale, FL.