Chicago Flat Roof Leak Repair & Coatings

Do you have a flat roof here in Chicago that has a leak that needs to be repaired? Well, you came to the right place! Hello, my name is Chuck and I have over 22 years experience in the roofing industry.

I have specialized in flat roof leak repair and flat roof maintenance coatings here in Chicago since 2007. I also repair leaking skylights and chimney flashing.

Call today to set up an appointment to get a free estimate!

Call 708-574-8052

I service the entire Chicago area.

Types of flat roofing that can be repaired:

Epdm Rubber Roof
Build-Up Roof (BUR)
Tar & Gravel
Bitumen (Modified Bitumen)
Torch-down
Rolled Asphalt (usually a “single-ply” install, sometimes uses tar-paper as base ply)

Problems associated with flat roofs:

The number one problem with flat roofs is just that – they are flat. Water does not run off the roof like on a pitched roof. Proper drainage must be in place to get rid of water accumulating on a roof. Usually older roofs are not leveled, causing water puddles to appear here and there after every rain that sits on the roof for an extended period of time until it dries out.

This is called standing or ponding water. Most roofing systems were not designed for ponding water. In fact, most manufacturers of the roofing systems on the market today, will void out the warranty if there is ponding water on the roof. Other major problems for flat roofs, are penetrations such as skylights, vent or exhaust pipes, chimneys, roof hatches, drains, etc.

However the biggest problem with flat roofs is the seams, because they are the most common areas where leaks occur.

What we will do during our flat roof repair visit:

We will look for all possible sources of roof leaks – seam adhesive failures, flashing failures, ponding water, etc.
We will perform up-to 1.5 hours of repair work using ONLY Peel and Stick flashings and accessories.
If after 1.5 hours of roof repair work there is more repairs to be done, we will identify problem areas and give you a price to perform the additional work. If agreed upon, we will continue with repair work, or will come back at your discretion. We will identify the repairs that in our professional opinion need to be done to extend the service life of your roof, and will think of the least expensive ways to do it.

Cost of roof repair:

The cost of the initial visit, roof inspection and repair work will be between $240.00 and  $425.00.

Please note: We do not provide estimates for roof repairs! If you want us to come out it will be to perform the repair work.

Warranty:

Because of the variety of membrane manufacturers, different age of roofs, and as a general industry practice, we do not warranty a roof repair. However, we will perform the repair service to the best of our ability. We want your potential future business!

Repairing PVC Membrane Flat Roofing Systems
Many flat roofs use a PVC membrane that is composed of only one layer of material, polyvinyl chloride. PVC roofs are specially designed to withstand ponding water, the cause of many flat roof leaks. PVC membrane is welded together with hot air (no open flame) to eliminate all seams so moisture can not pass through. PVC roofing systems also reflect nearly 90% of the heat of the sun, thus lowering energy costs substantially, especially in high-heat areas such as the southwestern United States.

Here’s a demonstration video on how to repair the membrane. Falling tree branches can poke holes is the PVC, so performing regular roof maintenance is especially important when it comes to flat roofing:

Flat Roofing System Options: EPDM Flat Roofing Systems

One option homeowners have when considering replacing their old flat roof would be to consider replaced using a new EPDM rubber flat roof system. EPDM roof systems are guaranteed to last for over 20 years, so there will be no more problems with this roof for a long time. If you perform proper maintenance, such as applying a roof coating every 5 to 8 years, you can extend the life of the roof past the 20 year guarantee.

With the heavy rains we are having here in Chicago many flat roofs will start leaking. You can simple repair the leak in most cases, or you can replace that old roof using a high quality EPDM flat roof system. Here’s a short video for you to get a look at this type of roofing system. be sure to check Angie’s List to fins a local contractor.

EPDM rubber flat roof