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If your flat roof is beginning to show its age, you may assume that the existing covering must be removed before a new system can be installed. However, this is not always necessary. In suitable circumstances, liquid membrane roofing can be applied over an existing flat roof to create a seamless and highly effective waterproof covering.
Whether this approach is appropriate depends upon the condition of the roof, the existing material and the structure beneath it. A professional inspection is therefore essential. Poole Flat Roofing can assess your roof, identify any existing problems and recommend the most suitable course of action.
Contact us TodayLiquid membrane roofing is a waterproof coating that is applied in liquid form. It then cures to create a continuous and flexible membrane across the roof.
Unlike systems formed from separate sheets or rolls, a liquid membrane does not rely upon numerous joins. Instead, it creates a seamless covering that follows the shape of the roof. This makes it particularly useful around outlets, upstands, roof lights, pipes and other awkward details.
Liquid membrane roofing can be used on domestic and commercial properties. It is suitable for roofs of different sizes and shapes, provided the underlying surface is compatible and in an appropriate condition.
Get in Touch TodayIn many cases, the answer is yes. A liquid roofing system can often be applied over an existing flat roof without removing the entire covering. This can make it a practical option for restoring a roof that is weathered but remains fundamentally sound.
However, it is important not to confuse an old roof with a suitable roof. A membrane should not simply be applied over extensive damage, trapped moisture or a weakened structure. Doing so may conceal the problem without resolving it.
Before recommending an overlay, a professional roofer must inspect the existing roof. The assessment should establish whether the covering is secure, whether the substrate remains sound and whether moisture has entered the roof construction.
If the roof passes these checks, liquid membrane roofing may provide an effective way to restore its waterproof protection.
Book in TodayPreparation is one of the most important parts of any liquid membrane installation. Even a high quality system may perform poorly if applied to a dirty, damp or unstable surface.
The roof must first be cleaned to remove dirt, moss, loose material and other contamination. Any damaged areas should then be repaired. Loose sections may need to be secured, while cracks, blisters and failed details require appropriate treatment.
Depending upon the roof surface and liquid system, a primer may also be required. This helps the membrane adhere correctly and reduces the risk of premature failure.
Particular care is needed around outlets, roof lights, pipes, edges and upstands. These areas are often vulnerable to water ingress and must be prepared carefully before the main coating is applied.
Book InspectionAlthough an overlay can be an attractive option, it is not suitable for every flat roof. Removal may be necessary when the existing covering is extensively damaged, poorly attached or concealing structural problems.
A roof may also require more substantial work if the decking has softened or deteriorated. Likewise, persistent water ingress may indicate that moisture has spread beneath the visible surface.
Poor drainage must also be considered. A liquid membrane can waterproof a suitable surface, but it cannot correct every fault in the roof design. If water cannot reach the outlets effectively, alterations may be needed before installing a new covering.
In these circumstances, removing the existing material allows the roofers to expose the underlying structure and complete the necessary repairs. Poole Flat Roofing also provides professional flat roof repairs when a complete new system is not required.
Contact UsWhen the roof is suitable, applying a liquid membrane over the existing covering can offer several practical advantages.
Retaining the existing covering may reduce disruption because a complete removal is not required. It can also limit the amount of waste produced during the project. Furthermore, the liquid follows the shape of the roof and creates a continuous protective surface.
This seamless finish is particularly useful on roofs with complicated details. The membrane can be applied around roof lights, outlets and penetrations without relying upon numerous separate sections.
However, these benefits depend upon correct specification and preparation. The decision to overlay a roof should be based upon its condition rather than cost or convenience alone.
Find Approved Liquid Systems for Your ProjectIt may be possible to apply a compatible liquid membrane over old felt if the covering remains secure, dry and structurally sound. Any splits, blisters or loose areas must be assessed and repaired first.
Liquid membrane roofing can provide an effective waterproof covering, but the source of the leak must be identified first. Any wet insulation, damaged decking or defective details may require repair before the membrane is installed.
The preparation requirements depend upon the selected system. However, trapped moisture within the existing roof construction must be identified because covering it may lead to further problems.
Upgrade to a Seamless, Leak-Free RoofLiquid membrane roofing can often be applied over an existing flat roof, but success depends upon careful assessment, preparation and professional installation. The roof must be stable, compatible and free from unresolved moisture or structural problems.
If you are considering liquid membrane roofing in Poole or a surrounding Dorset town, contact Poole Flat Roofing today. Call 07796 343385 to arrange a free survey and quotation for your domestic or commercial property.
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