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Common Problems With Flat Roofs in the Las Vegas Area

Mid-Century Modern architectural style home with a flat roof in Las Vegas, NV.

Flat roofs look great on many homes built in popular southwest styles, but they can also be a burden if they are not installed or maintained properly. Between the punishing sun, the wind, and the virtually non-existent slope, there are plenty of chances for damage and leaks. To avoid flat roof house problems in the Las Vegas area, call a roofing expert for help if you notice any of the following issues:

Damage from Foot Traffic

Flat roofs make the ideal place to mount equipment like HVAC units, ventilation fans, satellite dishes, communications gear, and more. This foot traffic from maintenance or everyday use can add up, causing damage or leaks.

Weather Exposure

A flat roof is especially vulnerable to everyday weather, from the hot Las Vegas sun to wind, rain, snow, dust, and more. Periodic inspections and roof maintenance are essential to anything that may cause more serious flat roof house problems in the future.

Roof Debris

Debris like leaves, seeds, branches, dust, and insect carcasses can accumulate quickly on flat roofs. Not only can the debris clog downspouts when the rain does come, but it can cause water to pool and trap moisture on the roof if it is not removed frequently, leading to leaks, damage, and more.

Separating Layers

Older flat roofs are often built up from multiple layers of materials, with top layers like fine gravel protecting the vulnerable tar and asphalt layers below. Age, sun exposure, wind, and water damage can cause layers to separate with time, leading to potential leaks and damage.

Blistering

With constant sun and heat exposure, the top layers can begin to bubble, blister, and swell. These vulnerable spots can easily be punctured, allowing water to leak between the layers and into the interior.

Sealant Failures

Caulking, sealants, or other coatings used can begin to crack or flake away with age and sun exposure, leaving vulnerable joints exposed to the weather. 

Missing or Damaged Flashing

Flashing protects vulnerable locations on the roof, like the joints between a chimney and the roof, the areas where roofing meets siding, openings for skylights, or the curb mount for rooftop HVAC units. Any missing or damaged siding could lead to moisture damage and leaks.

Heat Cycling

As roofing materials are heated and cooled, they will expand and contract. This can lead to damage in vulnerable locations like the edge of the roof or around roof penetrations.

Flat Roof Repairs & Maintenance in Las Vegas, NV

When you need an experienced team for help with flat roof house problems in Las Vegas or Southern Nevada, turn to our experts at Cooper Roofing & Solar. We offer flat roof inspections, maintenance, tune-ups, and repairs, as well as complete roof replacements. Since 1976, we have been providing top-quality roofing services for commercial and residential clients throughout Southern Nevada.

Call us today at (702) 688-7940 or contact us online to request your free estimate for flat roof repairs, maintenance, and more in the Las Vegas area!