Rubber Roof Membrane Punctures: Causes and How to Prevent Them

Without a doubt, roofing systems cost a ton of money. It’s the single most expensive part of a commercial building, especially when it uses high-quality materials like slate shingles, metal roof coatings or rubber roof membranes.

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When one part of the system is compromised, the entire roof will be affected. As such, it’s reasonable for property owners to take good care of their roofing system. Otherwise, they would be spending more and suffering a lot of inconvenience.

Most commercial building owners prefer hiring qualified commercial roofing contractors to do all the maintenance and replacement work. The presence of moisture or water leaks, for example, are signs that your rubber roof membrane has punctures.

Typical causes and solutions for rubber roof membrane punctures include:

Roof Traffic

Sometimes, punctures are caused by tools, cigarettes and hard objects dropped by personnel while they were on the roof. If they are not careful, they can also create punctures as they walk on your roof.

One way to prevent this is to limit traffic on the roof. Anyone who needs to get up on the roof has to be versed in the proper way of doing so to prevent damage. Make sure you allow access to only trained and trusted contractors.

Natural Causes

The next culprit: the weather. Extreme winds, hailstones, flying debris and even heavy rains can cause punctures to your roofing membrane.

Small animals can also contribute to the problem as they could scratch, peck and drop debris or stones on your roof while rodents and pests can bore through roofing material. If you notice any signs of animal activity, such as droppings or chewed materials, it is important to address the issue immediately.

To prevent damage from natural causes, it is important to regularly inspect your roof for any signs of wear and tear. Make sure to clear away any debris that may have accumulated on your roof, such as leaves or branches, as these can become projectiles during strong winds.

Prevention

Consider calling an expert to give you advice on how you can get an extra coating of protection for your roof. Regular checkups and maintenance can also help prevent many kinds of roof problems. During these checkups, a professional can identify any potential issues and address them before they become bigger problems.

Another way to prevent damage and extend the life of your roof is by ensuring proper ventilation in your attic. Poor ventilation can lead to a buildup of heat and moisture in your attic, which can cause damage to both your roof and insulation. Be sure to have vents installed and regularly check for any blockages.

Repairs

If you do notice any damage or wear on your roof, it’s crucial to address it right away. Ignoring even small issues can lead to more extensive damage and costly repairs down the line. And in severe cases, neglecting roof damage can even pose a safety risk for you and your family.

When it comes to repairs, it’s best to hire a professional roofing contractor who has the experience and tools to properly fix any issues. They will also be able to identify if there are any underlying problems that may have caused the damage in the first place.

Roof Replacement

If your roof is old or severely damaged, it may be time for a replacement. A new roof not only improves the appearance of your home but also adds value and protection. When choosing a new roof, consider materials such as asphalt shingles, metal, or tile depending on your budget and desired aesthetic.

Ridgeline Construction Roofing & Exteriors is one of the leading rubber membrane and gutter installation companies in the market today. We won’t sacrifice quantity for quality, and we always strive to provide you with the highest level of service. Schedule a free estimate and consultation today by calling us at (256) 325-1345 or by filling out our online form.

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