Flat roofs are increasingly popular among Arizona homes and have always been popular among commercial buildings. By design, these roofs do not have a steep slope, hence why they are called flat. They offer a modern feel to any home and are great for covering large buildings because of their seemingly lower cost compared to other materials. Maintaining a flat roof helps keep it in working order and prevents significant future damage.
Roof blisters are a common issue with flat roofs caused by changes in the weather.
With recent weather having dropped a significant amount of rain on the East Valley, home and business owners might be seeing blisters pop-up on their flat roofs. Knowing how to identify them, determining the cause, and how to repair a blister is important to prevent additional damage.
Identifying Roof Blisters
Identifying a roof blister is simple, it looks similar a blister would look as your shoe rubs the back of your heel all day. It is a bubble within the material on top of the roof and there could be several or just one that forms. While it does not require immediate repair, a roof blister can cause damage to the roofing membrane and expose lower layers to moisture if left untouched.
What causes roof blisters?
When there is a pocket of water or air trapped between the roof deck and membranes, a bubble will form, this is a roofing blister. Water and air fill the space where the adhesive component has come loose on a flat roof. Areas with poor attic ventilation cause excess moisture to build up, especially with excessive heat. The more moisture, the larger the bubble that will form and eventually pop, creating the blister.
Additionally, poor installation can be the cause of a roof to blister. Always keep in mind when getting roofing work done, whether it is a new roof or repair, it should always be done safely. Professionally trained roofers will not complete any roofing work when weather is bad, including rain.
Preventing Roof Blisters
Even if a roof is not showing signs of damage or in need of repair, regularly scheduled roof inspections are the best way to prevent significant damage. A skilled commercial roofer will know the signs of a blister on a flat roof and certainly be able to spot it during a thorough examination. As much as you might not want to pay for an inspection, it could save you significantly from a large repair or full roof replacement.
Repairing a Blister
Saving the repair for a professional is going to be your best option. This will not only ensure the repair is complete correctly, but it will also prevent additional damage in the future. Before the blister is repaired, keep the area clean, do not place weight on or around the blister, and avoid touching or attempting to repair it. Doing so will help prevent the blister from getting any worse or adding more areas of damage. Like anything, leaving a roof blister untouched for too long can cause serious damage.
Preventative Maintenance is Key
If you notice any issue or something unusual on your flat roof, contact a roofing company. As the single line of defense against the elements, your roof requires proper care. Preventative maintenance is always recommended to stop damage before significant repairs are needed. However, accidents do happen and when they do, completing necessary repairs in a timely fashion is a must. Be sure to contact your local roofing company when you notice the signs of a blister and ask for a repair estimate.
Craven Construction is your trusted East Valley residential and commercial roofing expert. Our team is experienced with roofs of every type, including flat roofs of every size. We are licensed and insured for your added peace of mind. Contact our office to schedule a FREE estimate for any repairs needed or a flat roof replacement.
Has your flat roof been damaged?
About Craven Construction
Craven Construction is dedicated to providing our customers with honest and reliable roofing services. With over two decades of residential and commercial experience, we are here to serve you and all of your roofing needs.
Our team of experienced roofers is licensed and knowledgeable in working with all types of roofing. We offer high quality roofing services and are capable of getting your project completed in a timely, efficient manner.