Challenge

The trouble with flat roofs, they need to be monitored more than a pitched roof because there is no way for the water to naturally filter away.

Ponding, is an industry term that truly explains what standing water on a flat roof does. Just like the swampy phrase implies water left on a flat roof typically starts to form it's own ecosystems, hosting insects, bacteria, debris and a slew of other things.

Ponding water does a lot of damage to a flat roof and it typically goes unnoticed until there is a leak. While there are options to help reduce ponding; those options also, need to be regularly maintained. A neglected flat roof will have a short lifespan and may result in interior damage to your home or building. 

So was the case for this home in Potterville, Michigan. 

The homeowner wrote to us, using our online form and shared the following:

"Hi, 

We have a flat roof over our kitchen area. Approximate size is 32 x 14, single story.

I think it probably needs decking as well as roofing. 

It currently has a rail around it and at one time was used as a balcony area. We would like to replace the railing and eventually add a floating deck." 

The challenge for this particular project:

1.) Fix any damage that had been done 

2.) Find a material that could stand up to entertaining, without compromising any of its roofing integrity.

Solution

The solution for this home in Potterville, Michigan

1.) Fix any damage that had been done

Remove the pre-existing roofing material

Remove the rusted handrails and guards around the balcony

Remove all of the damaged decking 

Remove the water damaged ceiling in the kitchen area

Remove the water damaged insulation and boards 

Replace the insulation and boards

Replace the decking 

Replace the drywall - finish the dry to match the ceilings throughout the home

Replace roofing system including material

Replace hand rails around the balcony 

2.) Find a material that could stand up to entertaining, without compromising any of its roofing integrity.

For this particular project we decided to go with a Mod-Bit roofing system. The home owner opted to warranty the roof through the manufacturer for 20 years no leak guarantee and 25 years material guarantee.