TAR AND GRAVEL TORCH ON FLAT ROOFING PROCESS

Inspections of flat roofs reveal issues such as weakening seams, bubbling and premature decomposition of the bitumen in isolated areas.  These blemishes grow if not discovered and dealt with, and, like cavities, make themselves impossible to ignore over time.  They can cause the premature demise of the entire roofing system.  

Weakening seams on Tar and Gravel roofs can be strengthened to last longer than the rest of the roof, by removing the protective gravel, cleaning, and applying modified bitumen in a professional manner. A similar process is done to repair Torch On roofing seams.

Bubbles in Tar and gravel need to be “spudded” – the bad parts completely removed.  The deck must be inspected for rot and any affected rot areas replaced with healthy wood.  Then modified bitumen is heated to bond with the good roofing, for a dependable repair.  The process is similar with Torch On bitumen roofing.
Flashings  and edges must be kept in good condition, the interfaces kept clean and watertight as a swimming pool.

Drainage must be working well enough not to allow water to rise on the roof and get above the top area of the roofing, or water will seep in through walls!  The weight of water held by plugged or incorrectly placed drains can be a hazard.

Leaks must be traced carefully back to the place of origin quickly – before structural rot happens, and before expensive interior decorations or possessions, or business records or inventory are ruined.

There are several layers of protection on a flat roof, for waterproofing and protection from harmful UV rays.  All parts must be working evenly over the entire surface to get the best out of your investment and protect the building and its contents.

The Roofing Institute of British Columbia, who trains and places workers into apprenticeship programs, the voice of educated roofing in British Columbia, recommends all “flat” roofs be inspected twice a year for problems like the above, and repairs be done immediately.    They recommend and that proactive maintenance be carried out on a regular basis, as well.