Consistent flat roof maintenance is the only way to protect your commercial building from the harsh Central Illinois climate. We go from 100°F summers to -20°F winters, and that fluctuation can be brutal on roofing membranes.
While flat roofs (like TPO, EPDM, and Modified Bitumen) are efficient, they have one major vulnerability: drainage. According to the National Roofing Contractors Association (NRCA), standing water is a leading cause of premature roof failure.
This guide covers the essential flat roof maintenance routine we recommend to our commercial clients to keep their businesses dry.
1. The “Ponding Water” Rule
The most critical rule of flat roof maintenance is simple: Water should not stay on your roof for more than 48 hours.
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The Risk: Standing water adds massive weight to your structure. In winter, if that pool turns to ice, it can tear the membrane away from the parapet walls.
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The Fix: Inspect your roof 48 hours after a heavy rain. If you see “lakes,” your drains are clogged or the insulation below has compressed.
2. Know Your Material (It Matters)
Different flat roofs fail in different ways. Identifying what you have helps you spot problems early.
TPO (White Thermoplastic)
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Common in Peoria: This is the white, reflective roof seen on many warehouses.
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Watch For: Split seams. TPO is heat-welded. If a seam wasn’t welded perfectly, it can pop open over time.
EPDM (Black Rubber)
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Common in: Older buildings and restaurants.
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Watch For: Shrinkage. Over time, the black rubber shrinks, pulling away from the walls. Look for “tenting” or tightness at the corners.
3. The Seasonal Maintenance Checklist
We recommend performing flat roof maintenance checks twice a year: once in late Fall (before the snow) and once in early Spring (after the thaw).
Check the Drains & Scuppers
Debris is the enemy. A single pile of wet leaves can block a drain, turning your roof into a swimming pool.
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Action: Clear all strainers, gutters, and downspouts. Ensure water flows freely.
Inspect the “Penetrations”
A “penetration” is anything sticking out of the roof—HVAC units, pipes, and vents.
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Action: Check the sealant (caulk) around the base of these units. Pitch pans often dry out and need to be refilled.
Walk the Perimeter
Most leaks happen at the edges, not the center.
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Action: Check the metal coping cap (the metal edge on top of the wall). If the wind has loosened it, water can run down inside your walls.
4. Foot Traffic: The Silent Killer
Does your building have HVAC technicians or maintenance crews on the roof often? They can accidentally drop tools or walk on blistered areas, puncturing the membrane.
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Pro Tip: Install “walk pads” leading from the hatch to the HVAC units. Strict rules should be set: Stay on the path.
When to Call a Professional
While you can clear leaves yourself, actual repairs on flat roofs require specialized tools. Using standard “roof cement” from a hardware store often damages single-ply membranes like TPO.
If you notice split seams, punctures, or persistent ponding water, it is time to bring in the experts.
At SNS Roofing, we specialize in commercial roof repair and custom maintenance plans. We can identify whether your roof needs a simple patch or a restorative coating.
Protect your commercial investment. Contact SNS Roofing today to schedule your comprehensive flat roof maintenance inspection.
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