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When is my flat rubber roof past the end of it's life?

With proper installation and ongoing maintenance, a flat rubber roof can give you many years of use. But, how can you know when it’s time to schedule a full replacement instead of patchwork repairs? 

Here at Radiant Roofing, it’s a question that we hear from many property owners here in the Cleveland Metro area who want to get as many years as possible out of their roofing. Here are a few of the signs that we look for when considering whether a roof has come to the end of its life.

Recurring leaks

It’s not uncommon for a roof to spring a leak or two over the course of its lifetime. This can be the result of a flashing being torn off during a severe storm or improper installation that needs a slight adjustment. And typically, these minor problems can be repaired without having to replace the entire rubber roofing.

But, it’s a different scenario if you find yourself putting out multiple buckets to catch leaks every time it rains or you’re battling recurring mold growth on the inside of your roof. This is a sign that your roof has widespread problems that can’t be addressed with a one-time fix.

Water pooling

A flat rubber roof in good condition will be able to channel rainwater to the proper gutters and downspouts. But, when the roofing material is compromised, it will buckle and warp, creating areas where water gets trapped. This is a huge problem, as standing water can lead to algae or mold growth, or attract insects and other pests. Water pooling can also further damage the rubber material and increase your chances of leaks.

Visible signs of aging

There are a few tell-tale signs of flat rubber roof damage that we look for when visiting a property that let us know it’s time for replacement:

  • Brittleness and cracking. One of the first signs of a rubber roof in trouble is dry, cracked material that’s lost all elasticity. This will cause tearing and cracking that can lead to water leaks.
  • Bubbling or wrinkling. Similarly to cracking, warping of the material can lead to water and other debris getting trapped under the outermost layer of the roof.
  • Sun damage. In general, the material used for rubber roofing is UV-resistant. But over the course of its lifetime, you may see eventual discoloration from sun damage.
  • Multiple patches. If we take a look at a roof and instantly see a myriad of past repairs, it gives us a pretty good idea of the age of the rubber roof. 
  • Sagging. Sagging is not only a problem with the rubber roof but could also be a sign of a structural problem underneath. 
  • Issues with the flashing. Flashing is an important part of your flat roof that seals off anything protruding from the roof, such as exhaust vents, skylights, or the edges of the roof. When the rubber roofing wears out, the flashing loses its seal and can even fall off completely. 

High energy bills and poor temperature regulation

Another sign that your roofing material isn’t working as it should is an unexplainable increase in your energy bill. In general, a well-installed and maintained rubber roof will provide you with better energy efficiency, as it does a good job of insulating your property and reflecting UV heat. 

But, when the roofing material has been worn down or damaged, you can start to notice changes in your energy bill or noticeable changes in your indoor temperature.

The benefit of a professional assessment

If you’re not sure whether your roofing is ready for replacement or can hold out a few more years, it’s a good idea to get a professional assessment and even a second opinion. 

As trained and licensed roofing contractors, we can identify visible and not-so-obvious signs that your roofing is ready for replacement. Or, we can recommend repairs that will extend the life of your roofing.

What time of year is best to replace your roof?

If your roof is suffering from major problems, it’s best to schedule a replacement as soon as you’re able, as issues can snowball and become more costly over time. But, if you’re looking at a less urgent situation, most property owners in Northeast Ohio prefer to schedule a roof replacement some time in spring before the start of summer thunderstorms or during early-to-mid autumn.

More questions about your flat rubber roof?

Radiant Roofing is here to answer all of your questions about your roof condition, repairs, and what to expect when it’s time to schedule a roof replacement. We work with small and large commercial spaces here in the Cleveland Metro and surrounding areas throughout Cuyahoga county and beyond. So, give us a call for a flat rubber roof inspection!

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