When a heavy storm rolls through, your flat roof takes the brunt of it. While your walls and windows can show obvious damage, the roof tends to suffer silently—until water starts dripping from your ceiling. After a big storm, taking the time to inspect your flat roof can help you catch issues early and avoid expensive repairs down the line.
In this guide, we’ll walk you through a step-by-step process for doing your flat roof inspection safely and effectively. And when in doubt, you can always reach out to professionals like All Aspects Roofing Augusta for peace of mind.
Why Flat Roofs Need Extra Attention After a Storm
Flat roofs may look simple, but they can be more vulnerable to storm damage than sloped ones. With limited drainage, water tends to pool and sit on the surface longer. Over time, this can lead to leaks, weakened materials, and even mold growth.
Strong winds, hail, flying debris, and heavy rainfall can all take a toll. That’s why giving your flat roof a proper inspection after each storm is key.
Safety First: Before You Go Up
Before climbing up to check your roof, remember these safety basics:
Wait for dry weather. Never go up when the roof is wet or slippery.
Use a sturdy ladder. Make sure it’s on level ground and someone is there to hold it.
Wear proper footwear. Non-slip shoes or boots are essential.
If you’re unsure, don’t risk it. Call a professional roofer like All Aspects Roofing Augusta to handle the inspection.
Tools You Might Need
For a basic DIY inspection, here are a few items that come in handy:
Binoculars (for checking from the ground)
Flashlight (to look inside your attic or crawlspace)
Smartphone or camera (to take photos)
Notepad or phone app (to make notes)
Roofing sealant (for minor touch-ups)
What to Look for During Your Flat Roof Inspection
Here’s a simple checklist to follow when examining your flat roof after a storm:
1. Standing Water (Ponding)
Flat roofs should drain water within 48 hours. If you see puddles that linger, it may indicate:
Poor drainage or blocked scuppers
Sagging areas or structural issues
Mark the spots where you see water so you can monitor them or report them to a pro.
2. Cracks and Blisters
Walk slowly and inspect for:
Blistering: Raised bubbles under the surface often caused by moisture trapped under the membrane.
Cracks or splits: These may form after freeze-thaw cycles or wind stress.
Even small cracks can turn into big leaks, so make note of their size and location.
3. Tears in the Roofing Membrane
The membrane is the waterproof layer that protects your roof. Storms can cause:
Tears or rips from debris
Lifting or curling at the edges
Loose seams or overlapping sections
If you find exposed underlayers, it’s time to call All Aspects Roofing Augusta for repair options.
4. Debris Buildup
Leaves, twigs, branches, and trash can block drainage and trap moisture. Clear away:
Gutters and downspouts
Roof drains and scuppers
Corners and low spots
Use a broom, not a metal tool, to avoid damaging the roof surface.
5. Flashing Damage
Flashing is the metal or rubber that seals the edges of your roof, especially around:
Vents and skylights
HVAC units
Chimneys or pipes
Look for rust, lifted edges, or missing pieces. Damaged flashing is a common cause of leaks.
6. Mold or Mildew Smells
Take a walk through your attic or upper floors and sniff around. A musty odor can indicate hidden moisture or leaks in your roofing system.
Even if you don’t see water stains yet, mold can start growing behind your walls or ceiling panels.
7. Interior Water Stains
Check the ceilings, especially near the center or edges of your home. Look for:
Yellow or brown discoloration
Peeling paint
Damp drywall or bubbling texture
These are all signs that water is seeping in from above.
8. Check Roof Edges and Parapet Walls
These areas are often overlooked but prone to damage. Make sure:
Flashing is intact
Seals aren’t cracked or brittle
No separation is visible between the roof and wall junction
Document Everything
As you inspect, take photos of anything that looks off—even if you’re not sure what it is. This can help when:
Filing an insurance claim
Speaking with a roofing contractor
Tracking how issues develop over time
If you need a second opinion, you can even send your inspection photos to experts like All Aspects Roofing Augusta to get fast feedback.
When Should You Call a Professional?
You can handle small cleanup tasks and surface-level issues yourself, but it’s time to bring in a pro if you notice:
Persistent ponding water
Torn or missing sections of membrane
Structural damage (sagging, holes)
Water stains inside your home
You’re unsure about anything you see
Calling in All Aspects Roofing Augusta ensures a full professional assessment, and they can guide you on next steps—whether that’s repair, restoration, or replacement.
Preventive Tips to Minimize Storm Damage
Taking a few proactive steps can make your flat roof more storm-resistant:
Schedule routine inspections at least twice a year—spring and fall are ideal.
Clean drains and gutters monthly, especially in the fall when leaves pile up.
Trim nearby trees to reduce the risk of branches falling onto your roof.
Seal seams and cracks with a waterproof membrane or caulking as needed.
Get professional maintenance from companies like All Aspects Roofing Augusta before storm season hits.
Final Thoughts
Storms may be unavoidable, but serious roof damage doesn’t have to be. A thorough DIY inspection after each major storm can help you catch small issues before they become big problems. And remember, if anything feels beyond your skill level—or if you just want to be extra cautious—there’s no harm in getting a pro to double-check things.
All Aspects Roofing Augusta has the tools, training, and experience to ensure your flat roof stays strong through every season.
FAQs
1. How often should I inspect my flat roof?
You should inspect your flat roof at least twice a year (spring and fall) and after every major storm. This helps catch minor issues before they become major repairs.
2. Can I fix a flat roof leak myself?
You can patch small leaks or cracks with roofing sealant or tape, but if the leak is large, recurring, or near structural elements, it’s safer to call professionals like All Aspects Roofing Augusta.
3. What if I find water pooling on my roof?
If the water hasn’t drained within 48 hours, it could signal a drainage or structural issue. Clear any debris first. If pooling continues, contact a roofing expert to assess the slope and drainage system.
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