Flat Roof Replacement in Austin: How to Know It’s Time for a New Roof

Straight out of an architect’s design guide, Flat roofs are engineered to give homes a minimalistic and new-age look. Although they appear flat, they have a slight slope for proper rainwater runoff. Flat roofs are suitable for both residential and commercial buildings in Austin, Texas, as they offer several advantages that align well with local factors like cost, space, maintenance, storage, and drainage.

When it comes to maintaining these roofs, re-coating is generally more affordable than replacing traditional shingles. But despite the lower costs, people fail to perform regular maintenance, thus failing to uphold the quality of the roof. This necessitates flat roof replacement in Austin. But how can you be certain it is time to give your Austin roof a complete makeover? If you want to know the answer, this guide needs all your attention.

Many flat roofs have membranes like EPDM, PVC, or TPO that prevent water from percolating into the building. However, they are not fully impervious to the damage, over time they develop cracks or tears that can contribute to water damage, mold growth and structural degradation. If you see minor cracks developing on the roofs, Know its time to bid farewell to your old roof and welcome a new one.

Minimal sloping isn’t always enough for adequate water runoff. This gradually leads to rainwater accumulation on the roof. Over time, the standing water strains the membrane, thus deteriorating the roofing material. So, if you notice that the water is failing to drain for a couple of days, then your roof is facing a drainage issue.

UV radiation causes the roofing material on flat roofs, particularly membranes, to decay. Decay in membranes makes them shrink and the shrinkage usually separates seams at their places while the edges deteriorate further, and the leakage starts penetrating. Enormously shrunk or cracked under the influence of the sun, suggests the roof is nearing the end of its life.

An experienced homeowner knows the benefits of an efficient water drainage system for the roof. If your flat roof shows signs of water damage, such as leakage, mold growth, stains, etc., it suggests that your roof is failing. Considering Austin’s humid weather, roofs are often exposed to prolonged moisture, which results in insulation damage and roof sagging, which calls for immediate replacement of your flat roof.

A moist atmosphere like that of Austin attracts common pests like termites, which might eat into the material and deteriorate the quality of the roofing material.
Rodents and mice chew through the insulation and wiring to enter your house from the roof.
These creatures’ invasion not only threatens the well-being of your roof but also concerns the safety of the occupants. So, if you see or hear any signs of pest infestation, such as chewed/damaged materials, scurrying and scratching noises, or droppings, schedule an inspection with a professional roofing company in Austin before the issue escalates

If you have noticed a sudden increase in your energy bills over the past couple of months, it’s most likely due to poor insulation and ventilation. Inadequate insulation causes heat loss during colder months and heat-trapping in warmer months. This necessitates the usage of heaters and air conditioners, thus resulting in increased bills.
Similarly, poor ventilation contributes to the formation of ice dams. If you notice a sudden surge in your energy bills, investigate the insulation and take necessary measures accordingly.

Typically, Flat roofs last 20-30 years. If your roof has surpassed its lifespan, it’s more likely to create major issues and even pose the risk of collapsing during extreme weather events like hailstorms, thunderstorms, and hurricanes. That’s why we recommend replacing your roof immediately after it exceeds its lifespan, safeguarding the integrity of the property.

Also read: How To Find A Reputable Flat Roof Repair Contractor Near Me?

Do these points resonate with the current condition of your flat roof? Are you looking for a reliable flat roof replacement service in Austin that can expertly replace your old roof with a new, sturdy one? If so, having a trustworthy roofing company in Austin on your contact list is crucial. After all, having solid and transparent knowledge about your roofing partner is essential.
Excel Construction Group provides specialized flat roofing services in Austin. From complimentary roof inspections and estimates to a five-star installation service customized to your requirements. Our quality inspections and regular maintenance regime ensure your roof’s longevity. Contact us today!