Most of these designs feature a flat roof which can be found in modern Melbourne homes and commercial properties, particularly around Boronia and Doncaster. They are stylish, space-saving, but have their own set of problems — especially in Melbourne’s wet and icy winters.
Ignoring the small stuff can cost big money. This is why you don’t delay your roof repairs. From pooling water to cracks in the surface, quick attention can save you thousands down the line. Here is a straightforward guide to the common flat-roof problems and what to do about them.
Water Pooling on the Roof
Melbourne has heavy winter rainfall, and flat roofs do not always drain well. Water that pools on the roof puts pressure on the materials and can cause leaks.
What to do:
- Clean out gutters and downpipes
- Add more outlets or scuppers to allow water to drain off
- Introduce a gentle pitch when repairing to make drainage even easier
This is a common issue in Boronia where a lot of houses are single storey and your local roof repairs Boronia company constantly has to tackle this very problem.
Leaky Roof Membranes
Heat, UV rays and water pressure can crack rubber or PVC roofs and other types of roof membranes. Leaks may be slow but destructive, leading to mould or staining in the home.
Fix it early:
- Seal any small fissures
- Substitute new material for badly damaged portions
- Invest in good quality membranes that will cope with Melbourne’s tough weather conditions
Bubbles and Blisters
Blistering is a byproduct of water becoming trapped under your roof surface. These can burst and leave additional holes for water to get in.
Solution:
Cut open the blister, dry it out, and re-stick it. If the membrane is severely damaged, it will have to be replaced. Routine inspections by a professional will not allow this to progress.
Cracks at the Seams
Flat roofs have a lot of seams where different parts join. These zones deteriorate over time and under prevailing heavy winds.
What to look for:
- Splits in corners and joins
- Water leaking through seams
- Drafts coming from roof edges
Fix: Seal with specialised tape or liquid sealant. Old roofs may receive a layer of new material.
UV Damage and Fading
Melbourne’s sunlight is intense. It eventually degrades coatings and weakens waterproofing layers.
Best fix:
- Resurface the roof with UV-resistant materials.
- Use of material that complies with AS 4654 applicable requirements
- Schedule for recoating every 7-10 years or as needed
Bad Installation
Like any roof, lamb’s tongue slate on a flat roof that has been poorly installed is not going to last as long. Irregular surfaces and shoddy sealing are telltale signs.
If you want such problems fixed, you need to use a regular professional roofer. It can be pricier up front, but it avoids expensive repairs down the road.
Blocked Drains and Leaf Build-Up
Flat roof drains become filled with leaves, particularly around Doncaster, regularly. This causes accumulation of water and damage.
Keep it clear:
- Clean drains twice a year
- Install guards over outlets
- Make sure that your flat roof is protected from expensive damage by hiring an expert for your flat roof repairs
Final Thought: Be In Front, not Behind
With regular upkeep, flat roofs can last for many years. To keep your house safe from mould and leaks, get regular inspections and fix any problems right away. With the following guide from roof repairs Doncaster, you can now identify what you need to look for and who you should give a call.
Don’t let the bad times bring you down. Begin your roof maintenance action now — before Melbourne’s winter adds to the damage.
