Whether you’re getting your flat roof inspected, repaired or replaced, having it done by expert new construction contractors will give you peace of mind knowing that the job will meet your expectations. But sometimes, even a well-maintained flat roof can be susceptible to incredible wind forces, such as tornadoes and hurricanes.
How a Flat Roofing System Works
Most commercial buildings and properties have flat roofs installed so that mounted HVAC systems can be accommodated. But keep in mind that flat roofs aren’t completely flat; they still have a very slight pitch to direct rainwater or melted snow into their installed drainage systems. This is to prevent water pooling and rotting the flat roof.
Most local roofing companies offer several types of flat roofing, which are all popular for commercial properties. These include metal, ethylene propylene diene monomer (EPDM), built-up roofing (BUR), modified bitumen and single-ply. Each type of roofing material will also have metal flashing and fascia put in place to protect them from wind and rain.
How Wind Can Damage Flat Roofs
Storms like tornadoes and hurricanes can cause damaging wind damage to flat roofs. The strongest hurricane winds can max out at almost 200 miles per hour (mph) while tornado winds can reach up to 300 mph! They can cause wind uplift to your roofing system, wherein the strong air gets underneath the roof materials and pulls them up. This makes the roof look wrinkly or bubbly because the roofing membrane or materials have been compromised.
Wind scouring can also happen during extreme weather. This happens when strong winds pull off the granules from the roof member or remove the gravel placed as a surface component on BURs. This type of damage may not be apparent, but it deteriorates flat roofing systems at a faster rate. Unless maintained regularly, you may end up with a premature replacement.
If you’re searching for roofers online, check out the best contractor in the area. Call Ritco Group today at (931) 381-0175 for more information! You can also fill out our contact form. We serve Columbia, Franklin, Brentwood and surrounding areas.