While a flat may fit the design of the house for an overall pleasing appearance, flat roofs do not shed water and debris as easily as a sloped roof Leaking.

Several things may increase the prevalence of a flat roof to leak. Some roofs aren't well designed and do not allow for adequate drainage. The weight of water building up on the roof may cause timber support to sag. Roofs leak because they have not been maintained properly or from walking on the roof without wearing protective footwear. Wear and tear, temperature changes and weather causes settling, shifting and splitting.

Roof Damage

A roof can also be damaged when things are mounted onto the roof. Improper installation of leaf guards and flashing can also cause flat roof problems. Deteriorating vents cause damage, along with branches rubbing against the roof, ice creating a dam, debris and hail.

Maintenance

Maintenance is the best repair tip, because it helps keep your roof in good shape long after other flat roofs need serious replacement or repairs. It is important to inspect your roof and keep it clear of ice and snow build up in the winter. In the other months, sweep off leaves and other debris. Make sure water isn't pooling or draining in places water should not be draining.

Pooling

If water is pooling, don’t leave it alone. Drain it off, but do more, as damage may already have been done. Take the time to pull up the roofing to check it. Add to the insulation before replacing the rubber shingles along with new flashing. Roof repairs need to be done by those who know something about roof repair.

Fungus

Fungus growth may be the cause of a flat roof leak and excessive humidity for which you would require some of the best rated dehumidifiers. Always see some of the best dehumidifier reviews before you buy a dehumidifier so that you select the best one. Growing fungus is tough and can actually force its way under shingles and flashing. When removing fungus, wear protective gear with safety mask and work gloves to keep from touching or inhaling fungus. Purchase a fungicide that can be safely used on the roofing material. This may not be a simple, one-time application, depending upon the severity of the problem. Once the fungus problem is gone, seal damaged areas and replace shingles and/or flashing as needed.

Sheathing

Sheathing on the flat roof might crack due to problems with material used or from weather conditions. When it does, leakage may occur. When inspecting the flat roof, always check for cracks and peeling. If water has gotten beneath the sheathing, the first step is to pull it up enough to allow air to get under it to dry out the moisture. Do not move on to the next step until the area has dried completely.

Next, utilizing a quality cement used for roofing force it into the crack. Apply up to three layers to make sure the crack is completely sealed. You don’t want to do a repair only to have to do it again because the crack wasn’t completely sealed. Finally, tack down the sheathing. Let everything dry for at least 24 hours. Now, test the repair by running water from the garden hose over it. Make sure you use low flow toilets on the roof top bathrooms as they will release far less water as compared to other types of toilets.

If you don’t have that knowledge or experience, contact a local roofing company who will send experienced professionals to do the job and to make sure your flat roof is in good repair.