SPECIALIST FLAT ROOF REPAIRS

The best material for a flat roof depends on your building’s requirements, budget, and long-term goals. Here is an overview of the most common commercial flat roofing materials:

• EPDM (Ethylene Propylene Diene Monomer): A durable black rubber membrane that can last 20–30 years (40-50 years with proper maintenance). It is one of the most popular flat roofing materials in Ontario due to its ability to withstand extreme temperature fluctuations, UV radiation, and heavy rainfall.
• TPO (Thermoplastic Polyolefin): Known for their white, reflective membrane, TPO helps keep the building cooler and can reduce energy costs. It is lightweight, cost-effective, and has a lifespan of 15-30 years.
• PVC (Polyvinyl Chloride): Well-known for energy efficiency, fire resistance, and long lifespan, often 30–40 years. PVC is reflective, easy to install, and performs well under heat and UV exposure.
• Modified Bitumen: An asphalt-based material that is flexible and often self-adhesive with no seams. It is available in a variety of colours to match your building, but its lifespan is shorter, typically 15–20 years.
• Built-Up Roofing (BUR): A traditional layered asphalt and gravel system. Extremely durable and resistant to storms, BUR provides a safe walking surface but is heavy and more costly to install.

Every building is different! We recommend consulting your flat roofing company for recommendations on what is the best roofing material for your specific roof. 

Industrial Roofing offer FREE flat roof inspections – book with us today!

Flat roofs generally have a shorter lifespan than sloped roofs because water drains more slowly, which increases wear over time. The lifespan varies depending on the material:

• EPDM: 25-30 years
• TPO: 20-25 years
• PVC: 20-30 years
• Modified Bitumen: 15–20 years
• Built-Up Roofing: 15–20 years

Even with proper installation and maintenance, these are the typical ranges you can expect before a replacement may be necessary. However, age alone isn’t the only factor…

Some other signs your commercial flat roof might be ready for a replacement:

• Water leaks inside the building
• Cracks, blisters, or sagging on the roof surface
• Ponding water that doesn’t drain within a couple of days
• Loose or missing roofing materials
• Sudden increases in energy bills may indicate insulation issues
• Interior damage, like water stains or mould
• Multiple previous repairs

If your roof shows any of these signs or is approaching the end of its expected lifespan, it’s time to consider replacement. A professional inspection from experts like Industrial Roofing Services Limited can help determine the right timing and prevent costly damage.

For more information on the signs your flat roof needs replacement, check out out blog!

Deciding whether to repair or replace a flat roof depends on the roof’s condition, the extent of the damage, and your long-term plans for the building. Here’s how to determine the right option:

Flat Roof Repair:

Repairs are suitable when problems are minor and the roof is still in good overall condition. You might choose to repair if:

• The roofing membrane is largely intact and has not reached the end of its lifespan
• The insulation is dry, intact, and performing well
• You are looking for a cost-effective, short-term solution while planning future maintenance or eventual replacement

Repairs can include patching leaks, replacing small sections of the membrane, re-sealing flashings, or fixing minor damage caused by storms or debris.

Flat Roof Replacement:

Replacement is necessary when damage is extensive or recurring, or if the roof has already been repaired multiple times. Consider a full replacement if:

• The roof has major leaks or structural issues
• Insulation is saturated, buckling, or shows signs of deterioration
• Previous repairs are failing, or the roof has multiple layers from past recoveries
• You want a long-term solution or wish to upgrade to a modern, energy-efficient system

A full replacement also allows for upgrades such as better insulation, improved drainage, or the installation of reflective roofing materials.

Key considerations to ask yourself:

• How much of the roof is damaged?
• Are there wet areas, blisters, or structural issues?
• How long do you plan to stay in the building, or are you preparing to sell?
• Are there plans for renovations, additions, or new technologies like solar panels?

Consulting a professional like Industrial Roofing Services Limited can help you evaluate the roof’s condition and choose the solution that best protects your building and investment.

For more information on flat roof repair vs replacement, check out our blog!

A flat roof maintenance plan is a scheduled, professional service that keeps your roof in good condition, prevents costly damage, and extends its lifespan. Regular maintenance is especially important for commercial flat roofs, where leaks, ponding, or structural issues can disrupt operations and cause expensive repairs.

What a maintenance plan typically includes:

• Comprehensive Roof Inspection: Professionals check the membrane, flashings, roof deck, and penetrations (vents, skylights, chimneys) for damage or leaks. Infrared cameras may be used to detect hidden moisture.
• Gutter and Drain Cleaning: Clearing debris ensures water drains properly, preventing ponding and leaks.
• Debris Removal: Leaves, branches, and other debris are removed to prevent moisture buildup, mould, and membrane damage.
• Minor Repairs: Small leaks, cracks, loose flashings, or damaged shingles are addressed before they become major problems.
• Roof Cleaning: Moss, algae, and lichen are removed to protect the roofing material.
• Ventilation and Insulation Checks: Ensures proper airflow and insulation levels to prevent heat or moisture damage.
• Detailed Maintenance Report: You receive a report documenting the roof’s condition, repairs made, and recommendations for future care.

Why you need a maintenance plan:

• Prevents small problems from becoming expensive repairs
• Extends the lifespan of your flat roof
• Helps maintain energy efficiency
• Provides documentation for insurance or resale purposes

For businesses, a professional plan from Industrial Roofing Services Limited ensures your flat roof is inspected and maintained by experts, giving peace of mind and reducing the risk of unexpected failures.

Finding a trustworthy commercial roofing contractor is essential to ensure your flat roof is installed, repaired, or maintained correctly. Here’s what to ask and consider when choosing a contractor:

1. Experience and Expertise

• Ask how long they have been in business and the types of commercial roofing projects they have completed.
• Ensure they have experience with the specific roofing material you need (EPDM, TPO, PVC, etc.).
• Request examples of past projects or case studies to verify their capabilities.

2. Licensing and Insurance

• Confirm the contractor is properly licensed to work in your area.
• Verify they carry general liability insurance and workers’ compensation to protect your property and employees.

3. References and Reviews

• Request references from previous clients.
• Check online reviews and ratings on platforms like Google, Yelp, or the Better Business Bureau (BBB).

4. Written Estimates and Contracts

• Get a detailed written estimate covering labour, materials, permits, and any additional costs.
• Ensure a written contract clearly outlines the scope of work, payment terms, and project timeline.

5. Project Timeline and Communication

• Ask how long the project will take and how they handle weather delays.
• Determine who will be your main point of contact and how progress updates will be communicated.

6. Warranty and Guarantees

• Verify what warranties they offer on the roofing system and materials.
• Ask about guarantees for workmanship to ensure peace of mind.

7. Safety Measures

• Ensure the contractor follows safety protocols and complies with OSHA standards or local regulations.

8. Cleanup and Disposal

• Confirm how they handle debris removal and whether they recycle old roofing materials.

By asking these questions, you can confidently choose a contractor who is professional, experienced, and reliable. At Industrial Roofing Services Limited, we follow all these best practices to provide expert flat roofing services across southern Ontario.

For more information regarding how to find a reliable flat roofing contractor, check out our blog!

Whether you need a permit to replace a flat roof depends on the type of work being done and whether it involves structural changes. Permits ensure that your roof complies with safety, building, and energy efficiency codes.

You will typically need a permit if you are:

• Replacing your flat roof with a new roofing system that changes the structure or height
• Making structural changes, like altering the roofline or slope
• Upgrading insulation to meet energy efficiency requirements
• Installing or modifying drainage systems, such as internal drains or emergency overflows
• Adding safety systems like guardrails, fall protection, or roof access changes
• Working on heritage buildings where changes are visible from the street

Permits are usually not required if you are:

• Replacing the roof with the same type of material (e.g., EPDM for EPDM) without changing the structure
• Performing routine maintenance or small repairs, like fixing minor leaks or replacing a section of membrane
• Applying protective coatings or roof restoration without structural changes

Heritage Buildings:

If your property is designated as heritage, most exterior work – including roofing – requires a permit to ensure the building’s historical appearance is preserved. Always check with local heritage or building offices before starting work.

For more information on when you do and don’t need permits for flat roofs, check out out blog!

Roof ponding is when water collects and sits on a flat roof instead of draining properly. While a small amount of water might seem harmless, persistent ponding can cause serious problems, including leaks, membrane damage, structural stress, and accelerated aging of your roof.

Common causes of ponding:

• Blocked drains or gutters: Debris like leaves and twigs prevents water from draining.
• Improper roof pitch: Even “flat” roofs need a slight slope toward drains.
• Excessive roofing material at edges: Gravel or tar can block water flow.
• Poorly installed flashing: Water can be trapped if flashing is not positioned correctly.
• Structural irregularities: Low spots or depressions in the roof can collect water.

How to prevent ponding:

• Regular maintenance: Clear debris from drains, gutters, and roof surfaces.
• Correct roof pitch: Ensure proper slope toward drains during installation or replacement.
• Install crickets or tapered insulation: These guide water away from areas prone to pooling.
• Address structural issues: Fix low spots or depressions that trap water.
• Consider additional drains: On large roofs or high-precipitation areas, extra drains may be needed.

At Industrial Roofing Services Limited, we inspect roofs for ponding issues and implement solutions to ensure your flat roof drains efficiently and lasts longer. 

For more information on why water pools on your flat roof, check out our blog!

Proper drainage is essential for flat roofs. Without it, water can pool, causing leaks, material deterioration, and even structural damage. Improving drainage ensures your roof lasts longer and protects your building.

Ways to improve flat roof drainage:

1. Interior Drains

• Installed at low points, these drains channel water through pipes hidden inside the building.
• Best for large commercial roofs where you want all drainage components hidden.
• Requires regular maintenance to prevent clogs from debris.

2. Scuppers

• Simple openings in parapet walls or roof edges that allow water to flow off the roof.
• Water is directed into chutes, gutters, or downspouts, keeping it away from the foundation.
• Low-cost, low-maintenance, and ideal for medium-sized roofs.

3. Gutters and Downspouts

• Gutters along roof edges collect water and channel it to downspouts.
• Best for smaller commercial buildings or roofs with slight slopes toward the edges.
• Downspouts carry water safely to ground level or stormwater systems.
• Both require regular cleaning to prevent clogs and ice buildup in winter.

4. Correct Roof Pitch and Slope

• Even “flat” roofs should have a slight slope toward drains or scuppers to ensure water flows naturally.
• Adding tapered insulation or crickets can help direct water to drainage points.

5. Regular Maintenance

• Keep drains, gutters, and scuppers clear of leaves and debris
• Inspect for structural irregularities or low spots that may trap water.
• Schedule professional inspections to catch drainage issues early.

At Industrial Roofing Services Limited, we design and maintain effective drainage systems for all types of commercial flat roofs across southern Ontario.

For more information regarding the different types of drainage systems for flat roofs, check out our blog!