Facts About Flat Roof Wind Damage
2 min read
Flat roofs can be made from ethylene propylene monomer (EPDM), a build-up roofing (BUR), modified bitumen, metal, or a single ply. Fascia and metal flashing can be installed to prevent rain and wind from lifting flat roof edges.
Flat Roof Wind Damage Facts
When a tall building is being considered, flat roofs are preferred to pitched or sloped roofs. Pitch roofs are more expensive, more difficult to install, and more hazardous than flat roofs. Many buildings have AC units that are mounted on flat roofs. This is impossible if the roof slopes. Other features, such as gardens or smoking areas, are also possible on flat roofs. This is not possible with a pitched roof. A flat roof is better for tall buildings because it resists wind.
Wind Uplift
Even if your roof is flat, it will still need to deal with wind and the elements. Flat roofs are vulnerable to wind uplift, which is the most destructive force that can be applied to roofs. Wind uplift occurs when the wind pulls down roofing materials. Flat roofs often have wrinkles and bubbles. This indicates that the material is not as secure as it used to be.
Although some roofs can withstand moderate to strong winds, others are susceptible to damage by strong winds such as hurricanes or tornadoes. Even moderate winds can cause damage to other roofs, especially if they are tall.
Other Factors That Can Cause Damage
The wind can lift a flat roof and cause rain or snow to seep underneath. Wind uplift can cause more damage to the roof membrane materials because they are now exposed and vulnerable to moisture. This can cause rot, corrosion, and staining as well as mold and mildew growth and termite infestation. You can also blow debris under the membrane.
This post was written by Ted Williams! Ted is the owner of A Old Time Roofing which offers Roofing Contractors In Clearwater FL! Ted is a Master Elite Weather Stopper GAF Roofing Contractor, a double award winner of Best Steep-Slope Contractor from GAF and achiever of Master Elite Consumer Protection Excellence from GAF. He has been serving the Pinellas County area since 1978. Old Time Roofing has a tradition of quality workmanship, servicing residential and commercial properties.
