Often, those who own buildings or homes with flat roofs have multiple problems with their roofs. Owners of these buildings or homes need a simple understanding of what must be done to repair these roofs. Problems with flat roofs commonly begin with the pooling of water, which eventually causes the supporting structure to rot, creating damage over time. There are two ways to resolve the damages caused to a flat roof: call a professional Houston roofing repair company or owners can use the "do-it-yourself" (DIY) method, and fix the roof themselves. Calling a professional roofing company to make the necessary repairs may be costly; therefore, if an owner does not have the money available to pay a professional roofer, they can use the DIY method. Following are the steps that must be taken when performing repairs on a flat roof:

Step 1: Problem Identification

Flat roofs usually have more problems than pitched roofs. If preventive maintenance is performed by Houston roofing repair on a flat roof regularly, many problems can be avoided. Flat roofs should be inspected regularly for protruding nail heads, cracks, and flashing damage.

If a leak is noticed and there is a possibility that the flat roof may be damaged, an inspection should be done. The first thing to do is look for the source of the leak. This initial inspection can be somewhat tricky and requires a thorough inspection because, quite often, the leak can be ten or more feet away from the source. All areas of the roof should be checked that could cause a leak, such as the flashing from roof projections, roof drains or gutters, valleys, laps, and exposed nail-heads.

Step 2: Prepare Necessary Tools

Once the inspection has been completed and the extent of damage has been determined, the tools necessary for the repair task should be gathered and organized. Before climbing on the roof to make the repair, be sure to take only the tools that are essential for the repair. Safety must also be a top priority. Owners should wear rubber-soled boots and be extra cautious and walk lightly on the roof as any shoes or boots could cause more damage.

Step 3: Start Roof Repair (Cracked/Peeled Area)

The following roof repair is for a shingle/asphalt flat roof:

• The work area should be thoroughly cleaned, paying close attention to the source of the leak. Roof cement will not be effective on dusty surfaces.

• The cracked or peeled areas should be removed by using a razor knife. The bad section should be cut out uniformly, in a square or rectangular shape.

• The damaged piece that has been cut out can be used as a pattern for the replacement shingle.

• Cut a patch, making it two inches wider than the damaged area that was cut out. When cutting the replacement shingle, a straight edge can be used to match the exact size and shape.

• Insert a putty knife under the edges of the damaged cut out area and apply roofing cement. Then, apply roofing cement to the entire cut out area where the new shingle patch will be placed.

• Place the new, wider cut out shingle patch over the hole.

• Fasten the patch with nails to hold it down and apply roofing cement around the edges.

Damage to flat roofs often necessitates emergency repairs. These repairs can often be done by the owners themselves, using the DIY method; however, if the damage is extensive, then it may be necessary to enlist the help of a professional Houston roofing repair company who knows exactly how to repair a flat roof!