Because of the recession, there may be many roofs out there straddling the repair/replace line. What are some sure-fire signs that will help facility managers tell a replacement is necessary?
Although all roof membranes have different physical properties and failure modes there are certain deficiencies that are common to all roof membranes. Here are some common failure modes for all membranes to look out for:
1. Brittleness: All roof membranes become brittle at the end of their service life. This phenomenon is more rapid in some membranes. Once the material becomes brittle it losses the elasticity required to provide weatherproofing service. The material can be tested (tensile/elongation tests) to determine remaining service life or failure can be illustrated through grazing/cracks and splits in the membrane surface. Visual observation of material scrim or reinforcement is also an indication of material failure.
2. Wet Insulation: All roof insulations lose structural and thermal integrity once they are wet. All wet insulation should be removed from the system to avoid costly structural deck damage (particularly on metal decks). Typically, if more than 25% of a roof system has wet insulation a full roof replacement is recommended. Wet insulation can be determined by any method of moisture testing. If non-destructive moisture testing is conducted Gravimetric Testing should be conducted to verify that the material is wet. Some adhered membranes will illustrate wet insulation through excessive blistering and membrane ridging.
3. Flashings/Penetrations: Flashings and penetrations are the most vulnerable point of a roof system and nearly two-thirds of all roof leaks occur at these points. Openings, splits and sagging of flashings materials are common causes of roof leaks. Excessive openings or displacement of these materials can lead to free flow of moisture infiltration into the system and the building.
Answers provided by John D’Annunzio, president, Paragon Roofing Technology.
When A Roof Straddles The Repair/Replace Line
First Steps When A Roof Replacement Is Necessary
