Why is my roof leaking ?

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if you’ve noticed some water stains, mold, or even the dreaded drip-drip of a leak, it can be hard to pin point the cause. With the many layers and individual pieces that make up a roof, leaks can happen anywhere. However, there are a few main causes of leaks you can check first.

Top Causes of Roof Leaks

  1. Skylights can fail in many ways and are a major cause of leaking. Not only can the window seals fail, but they can block the flow of water off the roof, causing it to pool. The flashing, or what connects the skylight to the roof, can also be faulty and allow water in.
  2. Flashing is usually a thin piece of metal that is used to waterproof where two pieces of roof come together, or where a chimney, skylight, or pipe joins the roof. However, they are subject to weather damage and wind. They can also slide out of place over time, failing to protect vulnerable connections from water.
  3. Debris on your roof or in your gutters seems harmless, but is another cause of leaks. Debris, like branches and leaves, can cause water to pool around them, and soak into your roof. Debris in your gutters can also direct water to drain sideways allowing water to penetrate under slates and tiles.
  4. Damaged slates and tiles are generally the last reason your roof is leaking. However, especially old, cu, missing, or broken slates and tiles stop protecting your home from water. Walk around your house with some binoculars and make sure all your slates and tiles are there, flat, and intact.
  5. Sometimes, just the age of your roof can cause leaks. Older roofing materials can develop cracks, bubbles, tears, and shrinkage.
    And the longer you have your roof, the faster they deteriorate. If you roof is over 20 years old, or if you have leaks, it might be time to replace.
  6. Finally, all it takes to create a leak is a single uncovered nail. All nails and nail holes should be covered in waterproofing material such as roofing cement. When doing maintenance on your roof, pay attention to how well the nails are covered as much as you can.

There are many other reasons your roof can leak, such as an improper roof slope. Because roofs leak in so many ways, be sure to call samuels industrial roofing experts for advice.

ARE METAL ROOFS BEST ?

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Modern metal roofing systems offer a lightweight, easy to install and cost-effective method of construction that consistently delivers a watertight and airtight solution. some of the benefits of installing metal roofing systems.

Steel and aluminium roofing Systems contribute significantly to the sustainable design concept thanks to their high recycled content, energy efficiency, low maintenance, durability and recyclability which have all helped to establish steel and aluminium as the materials of choice for both new and refurbishment roof projects.
Metal has other attributes namely its striking beauty, clean appearance and versatility offering a choice of steel or aluminium substrate which can be linked with a range of colours, shapes, finishes and profiles. These attributes provide unrivalled aesthetics which allows the designer and building owner the opportunity to fine tune the appearance and style of the building. Steel and aluminium offer a better life cycle return on investment than other materials. Today’s products are protected by highly durable paints and coatings that can ensure a service life in excess of 40 years. Metal construction is efficient and competitive;

buildings can be rapidly constructed using metal-based primary and secondary components that are manufactured off-site and therefore are dimensionally accurate and of known quality. Speed of construction also means that buildings are completed earlier, enabling building owners to achieve a faster rate of return on their investment.Roofing systems provide the scope, in association with other materials, to design buildings with low overall environmental impacts and have much to offer in the areas of green technology and sustainability.

For example green roofing systems that can improve the thermal performance of a building by providing protection against heat loss in the winter and heat gain in the summer. Sheet systems coated with highly reflective surfaces and designed with insulation and ventilation can provide considerable cost savings for heating and cooling. Innovative cool roof coatings for roofs are now available which have moderate to highly reflective surfaces over a range of colours and some engineered coatings can increase the emissivity of the roof surface to allow solar energy and heat to dissipate quickly.

Metal roofing has been used successfully for many years on industrial and commercial buildings but the demands put on it by modern architecture and sustainability requirements have set new challenges. Thermal performance and airtightness of buildings have become increasingly important as the regulatory authorities focus on reducing energy consumption and associated greenhouse emissions. The widely adopted systems approach also ensures that performance criteria is known factor at the design stage and is reflected in the finished and installed construction.Correctly specified metal cladding and roofing systems competently installed will provide high levels of thermal performance and achieve consistently good air tightness which outperforms regulatory standards. When designing a roof to resist local environmental conditions, it is essential to take account of the prevailing exposure conditions so that the appropriate methods of construction can be implemented.

Weather tightness is a must have for any building and small changes in design such as the pitch of the roof, the length and method of sealing of the end laps and side laps all help with finished performance.In addition the number of secondary fixings can be increased; wider troughs can be used to assist in shedding water, and end laps eliminated or reduced by using longer lengths of sheeting. Further guidance is available in MCRMA guidance document, The effective sealing of end lap details in metal roofing constructions.

Metal roof cladding is designed and manufactured to give many years of reliable service, and will do so provided that a managed inspection and maintenance programme is followed. Roof sheeting, together with other component parts should be inspected for local damage and repaired in accordance with the agreed and documented maintenance schedule. It is important to note that any maintenance programme must minimise the need to gain access to the roof covering and should only be conducted by fully trained operatives using appropriate safety equipment.

THE ROOF IS THE MOST IMPORTANT FIRE BARRIER fames cant spread without oxygen.

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Parishioners at St John of the Cross Roman Catholic Church in Aylsham, are counting their blessings after a fire yesterday reduced a shed to ash, but a new fire resistant roof prevented it from spreading further into the adjoining church.

Four fire crews tackled the early morning blaze on January 18 at Gashouse Hill and managed to control the flames.

The 1960s building was left with a burnt hole in a section of its roof, a smashed window, plus smoke and water damage.

Parish priest, Rev James Walsh, said: “Thanks to the local Fire Service any major damage was averted. The new fire-resistant roof also prevented a major catastrophe.

“Members of the congregation have responded well to this incident. They have cleared up the fire damage and have made the building weather-proof so that weekday and Sunday Masses can continue without a break.”

Church members Peter and Wendy Adamson were among the first on the scene.

Peter told the North Norfolk News: “The fire brigade said that if the old roof had still been on, there would probably be nothing left.

“It’s also very fortunate that we have arranged to have the church decorated inside and out, but that won’t be happening until May.”

The church, which has an average congregation of 70, will be open as usual for Friday morning mass. It is one of the three churches that make up the parish of North Walsham.

Flat Roofing Mastic Asphalt

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The product comprises suitably graded limestone aggregates bound together with an asphaltic cement (primarily refined bitumens) to produce a dense, voidless material. It cannot be compacted, and is spread by means of a hand float, rather than rolled. Today’s modern mastic asphalt contains highly advanced polymer formulations, pioneered by manufacturers like Permanite in the 1980s.High performance felts offer a wide range of systems to suit both new and refurbishment projects, and have improved greatly over the years with advances in new product development. They are suited to most roof designs from flat, pitched or barrel vaulted through to vertical surfaces.

HIGH PERFORMANCE POLYESTER BASED FELTS

High performance felts can be used for most waterproofing applications including flat, low pitched and barrelled roofs, terraces, planters and underneath green or brown roofs. High performance felt roofing systems can be installed as a warm, cold or inverted roof application using the traditional roll and pour method as well as heat activated, cold applied or self-adhesive systems.

Today’s high performance systems are capable of coping with the movement in modern buildings and are resistant to puncturing. Cap sheet finishes are available in various colours and can be designed for appearance, as well as being hard wearing and tear resistant.

All the systems we use have a manufacturer’s warranty and can be upgraded for insurance purposes from 10 years to 15, 20 or 25 years.

Roof Waterproofing

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We have a full range of high performance range of liquid applied roofing, cladding and balcony waterproofing systems. Polymer waterproofing systems are extremely versatile, completely cold applied and can be specified to match the longevity of your project through a range of build-up options. Polimar is part of our cold applied portfolio. Cold applied systems meet the demand for specifications offering higher resistance to fire and spread of flames.The Polymer waterproofing roofing range has been specifically developed to provide short and long term waterproofing for both new build and refurbishment projects.

Polymer waterproofing provides a flexible, high performance UV resistant coating that forms a seamless waterproofing barrier. High levels of strength make Polimar the obvious choice for areas with difficult access and intricate detailing requirements.Ancillary items are important to ensure the project is completed to the highest standard with the necessary priming, reinforcement, vapour control, insulation and rooflights.

In addition the project site needs to have safety measures such as handrails and walkways where applicable.

  • Fast-curing primer for damp substrates (new build and saturated concrete)
  • Rapid curing times, same day return to full service
  • Low odour option available
  • Slip-resistant technology
  • Year round application possible
  • Additional surface coat in any RAL colour available
  • 15 year guarantee

Roof Drainage

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Choose siphonic drainage when you need to drain large rainwater volumes from flat roof tops quickly and efficiently. Typically used on large industrial and commercial roofs, our siphonic system is a cost-effective substitute for traditional systems.Smaller pipe dimensions, fewer roof outlets and downpipes, and shorter total pipe lengths all reduce installation costs. Because lateral pipes need no gradient, you maximize the use of building height too.Low slope roof drains are indeed subject to clogging that in turn can lead to serious, even dangerous conditions such as:

BLOCKED DRAINS

  • Roof flooding, weight and structural failure worries, an occasional roof collapse, particularly if the flooding and weight on a roof are combined with structural damage from rot or insects as may have occurred on an older building or one whose roof had a history of leaks
  • Roof overflow sending water into nearb
  • Inspect the current roof drain(s) and the drain line through the building for leaks and assure that the materials are in good condition;
  • Inspect the roof surface and roof drains on a regular schedule to find and clear away any debris clogging the drains; just how often this is needed depends on local condition such as the rate at which debris accumulates on the roof.
  • Roof leaks – leaving standing water on a roof not designed for that condition invites roof leaks and failure both from the continued presence of water and in freezing climates, from further damage to the roof covering from freeze-thaw cycles.
  • Building interior flooding also is more likely when a roof drain pipe passes through the building interior rather than outside the structure; a freeze-up or clog followed by freeze-up of the roof drain segment that is at or close to the roof top leads to leaky or burst drains and building damage.

MEWP & Lifting

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As IPAF TRAINED AND QUALIFIED CONTRACTORS WE OFFER A FULL RANGE OF ACCESS AND LIFTING
SERVICES USING SOME OF THE LARGEST MACHINES IN THE COUNTRY.

Falls are the single biggest cause of workplace deaths and the second most common cause of major injuries. The application of correct safety management can reduce the risks that they pose. All industry sectors are exposed to the risks presented by work at height although the incidence varies considerably. The risk of falls is prevalent within the construction sector. 34 of the 72 fatalities in the construction industry in 2007/2008 resulted from a fall from height. Common Factors Most accidents involving falls could have been prevented if the right equipment had been provided, and if the equipment had been adequately maintained and was properly used. But experience shows that as many falls arise due to poor management as are caused by equipment failure. Key faults include a failureTo recognise a problem To ensure that safe systems of work are followed, To provide safe systems of work , To supply adequate information, instruction, training or supervision provided,To ensure use equipment supplied, To provide safe plant/equipment. Causes The most common incidents involve overreaching, over-balancing, equipment failure, misuse of equipment, unexpected movement (particularly where ladders are involved) and the failure of a fragile surface. The main where falls take place are: From ladders (primarily from moveable ladders) From scaffolding (primarily from general access scaffolds) From work area/platforms , From vehicles , From roof edge, Down stairs , Through fragile roofs, From gangways/catwalks. Legal Requirement is governing work at height are: Work at height be avoided where possible, All work at height is properly planned and organised; Those involved in work at height are competent; The risks from working at height are assessed and appropriate work equipment is selected and used; The risks from working on fragile surfaces are properly controlled; and Equipment for work at height is properly inspected and maintained. The Regulations include Schedules that highlight requirements for existing places of work, and means of access for work at height, collective fall prevention (e.g. guardrails, working platforms), collective fall arrest (e.g. nets, airbags etc.), personal fall protection (e.g. work restraints, lanyards) and ladders. Duty holders must:Avoid work at height where they can; Use work equipment or other measures to prevent falls where they cannot avoid working at height; and Where they cannot eliminate the risk of a fall, use work equipment or other measures to minimise the distance and consequences of a fall should one occur. Please note that the regulations apply to all work at height where there is risk of a fall that is liable to cause personal injury. The previous 2 metre rule no longer applies.

Hiring a Metal Roofing Contractor

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Once you have decided to install a metal roof, it’s time to find a reputable, qualified contractor who knows the ins and outs of metal roofing installation. Just as in other professions, not all roofing contractors are equal.
When you shop around for that perfect roofing contractor,
There are things to consider that are specific to metal roofing installation and experience in that particular material is a must.
Metal roofing is laid directly on top of the existing roof. Although this technique may be less labor-intensive than ripping out the old materials, the job must be done right. Spending a lot of money on a metal roof is a fantastic investment, but if not done correctly will cost you down the road. Make sure you hire a metal contractor with proven experience.
Additional tips to consider when hiring a metal roofing contractor

• Get everything in writing. Make sure you understand the terms of your contract before you seal the deal.
• Understand where your money is going. The majority of roof installation costs are to purchase the copper, steel, or aluminum materials.
• Ask for references before you hire. Speak to former customers who have had metal roofs installed to get a feel for your contractor’s skills.
Most important use a contractor within a reasonable traveling distance say 50 miles max.

THE GREAT ASBESTOS RIP OFF

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Its not asbestos its cement !

The word asbestos scares most people and rightly so its a deadly rock form thats once inside the lung is impossible to remove and can cause asbestosis, mesothelioma Lung cancer, Pleural thickening, Pleural plaques, and more. But there are any types of asbestos, such as Chrysotile, Amosite, Crocidolite, Tremolite, Anthophyllite, and Actinolite.

WHITE ASBESTOS

The most common Form of asbestos which we all know is white asbestos, We see this everywhere, commonly on roofs, wall cladding, garages, soffits etc. The problem is this IS NOT asbestos at all, its cement that contains on average 3-4% CHRYSOTILE which is a type of asbestos but not one of the dangerous ones. These sheets and related products are referred to as asbestos, eg “asbestos sheets” but this is a slang term as there correct name is fibre cement sheets.

ITS HARMLESS

Bunching all forms of asbestos under one name is bound to cause panic, its the word ASBESTOS which causes the problem.

A recent government committee concluded that they could find no solid evidence that chrysotile (white asbestos) was harmful to human health.

in march 2014 the UKIP agricultural policy stated that it would get rid of unnecessary hazardous regulations classifications of asbestos cement. The problem arose when the HSE incorrectly advised the uk parliament in 1999 that white asbestos should be banned on the basis that it would kill upto 10,000 workers a year contrary to already published research in 1996 which showed that white asbestos posed a risk to human health too small to be measured.

The cost of asbestos removal is now excessive for no reason where white asbestos is concerned and obviously increases flytipping. The UK farming industry alone is estimated at 6 billion pounds in remedial costs.

 

The HSE refuses to explain this duplicity despite repeated calls for a public debate on the issue, maybe because of all the money people have wasted on unnecessary waste asbestos removal costs when renewing their asbestos roofs based on the HSE advise.