The next time you walk outside, take a moment to gaze up at your roof. What do you see? Do you see even shingles that are all laying flat? Or do you see shingles that are starting to curl and that are covered in moss? You can tell a lot about the condition of your roof just by looking at it. If you are at all concerned about the state of your roof, then your first call should be to a roofing contractor. They can evaluate the situation and recommend repairs or replacement as needed. Learn more about roofing and roofing contractors here on this website.
-
Upgrade Your Home with the Help of a Roofing Contractor 17 April 2024
-
How to Properly Handle Storm Damage Roof Repair 10 April 2024
-
5 Reasons Why You Should Hire Gutter Cleaning Services 18 March 2024
-
Signs You Need Roof Repair 7 March 2024
Up on the Rooftop
Tar And Gravel Roof Maintenance
Lori Silva
Tar and gravel roofs are common on many commercial buildings. These roofs consist of multiple layers of asphalt-soaked roofing felt. The felt layer is laid over the top of the roof decking, which is typically made of plywood but, in some cases, may be concrete. Each layer of felt is then covered in liquid asphalt and a layer of gravel. Once cured, the roof has a durable, watertight seal. Yet, even these strong roofs can suffer issues if they aren't properly maintained.
Drain Cleaning
One issue with tar and gravel roofs is that some of the gravel comes loose over time. The gravel can then wash into drains and gutter spouts, resulting in blockages and pooling water on the roof. When water pools, the instances of damage, such as leaks and roof collapse, become a danger. The gravel isn't the only danger as leaves, bird nests, and other debris can also block drains and gutters. Drains and gutter systems should be inspected monthly so that any clogs can be cleared out. Placing mesh covers over the top of water outlets can also prevent clogs and make the drains easier for your maintenance crew to clean.
Crack Repair
Cracks appear on tar and gravel roofs for many reasons, such as foundation settling, weathering, and age. Fortunately, this roof system is designed so that this type of damage is repairable and not a problem that necessitates roof replacement. Cracks become a problem if they aren't repaired since water can seep into the openings and lead to larger cracks or even potholes -- both of which pose a leak danger. Most repairs consist of little more than painting the crack with a fresh layer of hot asphalt and then covering it with additional gravel.
Damage Patching
Damage is more severe if a pothole or divot forms in one of the asphalt and gravel layers or if the bare roofing felt is showing. Sweeping some loose gravel over the felt provides a temporary repair since the gravel will protect the felt until a more involved patch is applied. For a small area of damage, a patch is cut from felt and applied over the area. Tar is then applied, and then gravel is adhered to the tar as it cures. If there is extensive damage over the entire roof, a fresh layer of tar and gravel will need to be applied.
For more help, contact a commercial roofing service in your area.
Share