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Hudson Home Improvement is a licensed home improvement contractor specializing in urban spaces throughout Jersey City and Hoboken. That means we have worked on our share of flat roofs. More than other roofs, flat roofs require regular maintenance to ensure durability.

1. Add a Silicone Roof Coating to Your Flat Roof. Why would you do this? Because silicone roof coatings restore and protect a wide variety of roofs. The best benefit to a silicone roof coating is its ability to resist ponding water. Ponding water is the cause of roofs breaking down and leaks. Silicone roof coatings also deflect UVB rays, which helps maintain the roof over time and will keep your home cooler in the summer. Cooling bills will be reduced! These are capable of resisting winding sand, oxidation, and extreme temperatures. They are also environmentally safe, are solvent-free, and contain low levels of VOCs.

2. Conduct Regular Inspections. Regular inspections are crucial to detecting potential problems before they escalate into bigger issues. Try to examine your roof twice a year and look for cracks, blisters, and pooling water. Check flashing for loose seams, punctures, and any signs of deterioration.

3. Frequently Clear Debris. Keeping your roof debris-free and clean is vital to prevent clogged drains and pooling water, which can lead to leaks and damage. Keeping the roof drains and gutters clear is also necessary to maintain your roof’s longevity. If this task is too difficult for you, call a professional like Hudson Home Improvement to help.

4. Address Standing Water. Pooling water is common on flat roofs, but it can indicate structural damage or leaks. If you notice standing water a few days after a rainfall, you may need to upgrade your drainage system or consult a flat roof contractor for help.

5. Maintain and Repair Flashings. Flashings provide a waterproof barrier around vents, chimneys, skylights, and other roofing perforations. Over time, however, they can weaken and loosen, allowing water to leak into your home. Regularly inspect these for damage and repair immediately.

6. Call the Professionals. While it is essential to do regular visual inspections yourself, have a roofing professional come out once a year to inspect your roof. They will be able to detect hard-to-find issues and thoroughly assess your roof’s condition.

7. Address Leaks as soon as possible. Roof leaks can occur due to weather damage, accidents, or aging materials. If you detect a leak, identify the source and assess whether it is a simple fix or if it needs a professional. It’s important to address the leak right away to prevent further damage. You can apply a temporary fix, such as a sealant or weather proofer until a permanent fix can be done.

8. Remove Snow and Ice. If winter in your area means snow, it is crucial to remove it from your roof immediately. Snow accumulation can add additional weight to the roof leading to structural collapse. A roof rake with a long handle can remove snow from the edges just be careful not to rake up roofing material.

9. Maintain Trees and vegetation. Regularly trim branches of overhanging trees, as these can scratch or puncture flat roofs. Periodically inspect your roof for plants and vegetation growing on the surface, as plant roots can penetrate the waterproofing layer. Keep gutters clean and clear from leaves and other debris.

Investing time, effort, and resources into flat roof maintenance protects your property investment and minimizes the risk of costly repairs. A well-maintained flat roof contributes to energy efficiency, comfort, and sustainability. For years, you can enjoy a durable, efficient, long-lasting roof, providing peace of mind.

If you’re interested in scheduling a roofing consult, contact Hudson Home Improvement today.