What You Need to Know About Membrane Roof Seam Failure

Membrane roofs offer a lot of benefits for any residential or commercial structure. With proper care and maintenance, these roof systems can last beyond their expected lifespan. And as long as yours was installed properly, it won’t easily fail at the seams. 

The Different Kinds of Sealing Methods

Not all membrane roofs are made the same, which means they’re installed using different sealing methods. If you have a thermoplastic membrane roof installed like polyvinyl chloride (PVC), the type of sealing used is hot air. This is done until the membrane melts and fuses with the next membrane section or flashing. As for ethylene propylene diene monomer rubber (EPDM) roofs, either adhesives or sealant tapes are used while hot asphalt is mopped over the seams for modified bitumen roofing systems. Roofers may also sometimes apply cold adhesive to the seam. 

Why Proper Sealing Is Important

The seams are considered the weakest point in a membrane roof system. Improper sealing or adhesion can cause these areas to fail, affecting the layer of insulation underneath. If not properly addressed, this can lead to tears in different areas and cause the seams to get torn apart. When this happens, the entire membrane material becomes defective and loses its effectiveness against the elements. Working with a roofing company that has extensive training and experience in installing and repairing different flat roofing materials is imperative to avoid seam failure.

Usual Causes Behind Seam Failure

• Weathering and Deterioration 
  Flat and low-slope roofs are meant to protect your home or building from the elements. Proper care and maintenance help keep the roof in good condition, but over time, they become more susceptible to natural deterioration because of long-term exposure to the sun, wind, hail and rain. The material may soon shrink and become brittle, increasing the risk of seam failure.

• Poor Workmanship 
  If you don’t do your research and just hire any other contractor you come across, there’s no telling if they have the proper training or experience in sealing flat roofs. If they also don’t follow manufacturer guidelines, not only will a membrane roof installation lead to seam failure but also premature damage.

Bradford Xteriors is a roofer and siding installer that homeowners and businesses in Columbus, Upper Arlington, Dublin and other communities in Ohio rely on for top-quality services. When you work with us, you can count on our experienced team to complete your project according to your needs and preferences! Call us today at (614) 483-6215, or fill out our convenient online form for a free estimate.