Leaky cement sheet roofs are one of the common problems seen in both commercial and residential spaces. About 80% of property owners complain about some kind of leakage in roofs. This blog covers all you need to know about the causes, steps, and how to prevent leakage in your roofs.
The Causes of Leakage in Cement Sheet Roofs
To seal the damaged roofing, it is vital to understand or find the cause that leads to leakage. Determining the source of leakage will help to understand the causes that will allow the owners to take the next steps. There are different causes of cement sheet roof leakages; an overview of some are described below.
Flashing
Roof flashing is a metallic material that is found in roofs to prevent direct water from entering the area. It is generally added between joints between different materials or angles to prevent leakage from those points. However, improper flashing can damage the connection between the roofs.
Moreover, older flashing tends to lift during storms or due to age, which leads to the formation of gaps. The water from these areas enters the house through the attic.
Clogs in Gutters
Gutters carry water from the roofing systems and make sure they are not stagnant in one place. However, when there is damage or blockage in gutters, they tend to collect the water and lead to leakage and seepage as time passes.
The problem in gutters could be solved if you regularly inspect for any leaves, glass pieces, or materials that are sticking out from the pipes and blocking them.
Erosion in Chimney
Chimneys can be the primary area where erosion takes place, and this is because chimneys require large holes in the roofing. They are also surrounded by different materials to ensure safety and prevent water from leaking.
However, different materials could bring in new issues, namely corrosion in the chimney area due to moisture collection. It is important to inspect the area at least twice every year to prevent leaking.
Gaps in Joints
Cement sheet roofs are generally created by joining multiple sheets or panels together by bolting or screwing. The holes around these screws or gaps between sheet joints allow space for water leakage or seepage into the building.
Other causes of leaking
One common and well-known cause of leaks is cracks or holes in the roof that develop over time. This allows penetration of water mainly during rainy weather.
Insufficient sealing in skylights or around vents can also lead to leakage in cement sheet roofs. It is crucial to understand the root cause of the problem and repair it swiftly to avoid further issues.
Steps to Repair Leakage in Cement Sheet Roofs
The primary step is finding the exact location of the leakage. Then fill the gaps caused by any cracks or holes by applying a layer of roof concrete or mortar.
Once this is completed, a primer is applied to smooth the layer and promote adhesion. To prevent leaks, an elastomeric seal is used at the final step. There are different ways and steps to stop leaking in cement sheet roofs.
Regular Roof Inspections
It is important to appoint a roofer to check the condition of roofs and their quality. They inspect for any potential clogs in drains, minor cracks, or areas required for resealing.
When the problem is identified, then they can be solved. Do not neglect small issues, as they can lead to bigger troubles in the future. Repair them immediately and save your money.
Clean the Area
Keep the area that needs any repair clean. Removal of dirt or other materials will help to improve adhesion and seal the area effectively. You can use a brush or other scrapping material to remove leaves or dirt from the area of repair. Once it is cleaned thoroughly, the next steps can be followed.
Fill the Holes
To fill a concrete roof, it is vital to have specific repair materials and tools. After cleaning, use a roofing cement or mortar to carefully fill the area that is damaged on a larger scale.
For smaller cracks, use elastomeric sealant or caulk, as they are more appropriate filler materials. Give the materials the time to stabilise.
This is an important step that will prevent further water leakage. Make sure to do regular inspections and repair the roof to avoid major problems.
Roof Primer
Once you have filled the cracks, the next step is primer application. Primer is an inevitable step. Primer in the roof helps to strengthen the bond between the surface of the roof and the sealant. Hence, applying a primer ensures protection and prevents further leaking of water.
Roof primers also contribute to expanding the lifespan of cement sheet roofs, and they do require some time to dry. Do read the procedure and follow the instructions carefully.
Elastomeric Sealant
Elastomeric sealant makes sure that the roof is protected in the future. They are packed with excellent waterproofing properties and make sure that the roof doesn’t leak in the future.
The primer makes sure that the area is now ready for sealant adhesion. The primer and the elastomeric sealant create a durable layer that seals water from entering the building.
Measures to Prevent Further Leaks
There are certain steps owners can take to prevent leaks in the future, and they are explained below:
Regular Maintenance
One common way to avoid leaks is to inspect the area frequently. Clean the drainage, clean the roof, and apply water-proof coating when necessary. Ensure regular repairs are taken care of.
Proper Drainage
When water collects and is clogged in your roof, it leads to leaking. Make sure that the drainage system is seamless and remove any debris if present. Frequently inspect the gutters and downspouts to ensure proper drainage and avoid further risks.
Don’t Skip Waterproof Coating
Waterproof coatings such as primer and elastomeric sealants help to prevent water leakage. They also form a strong bond with the roof surface and protect the building from damage.
Addition of a Secondary Layer
Adding another layer below or above the cement sheet roofs can help in prevention of water leakage and seepage. This layer can consist of any material such as terracotta tiles, PVC based roofing sheets or even just a teflon coating which acts as an additional barrier against water.
Conclusion
Water leaks in cement roofing sheets are common damages that may occur over time or due to the influence of environmental conditions. Make sure to repair them when you spot small damage and seek the help of a professional. Give your roofs time to establish a strong bond with other materials and inspect them regularly.
FAQs
To stop concrete roofs from leakage, make sure to spot the exact point and add roofing cement, primer, and adhesives to fix the crack.
If your roof needs a major fix, you can just apply a layer of silicon directly to the existing roof; this increases the roof coating performance.
Sealants are the best waterproof materials, as they can reflect UV light and also protect the roof from water damage.