The Problem
Detecting metal roof leaks can sometimes be a process of elimination. However, for a professional roof plumber, used to sourcing a variety of metal roof leaks, there are some obvious places to start looking.
In this particular instance, the client reported water pooling on her balcony. The client is located on the second floor of a two storey block of flats in Toorak.
Detecting The Metal Roof Leak
Our site inspection reveals anchor points for safety harness use are located in the vicinity of the leak but we eliminate this as a potential source of the roof leak as there is no sign of rust. Further, silicone has been applied appropriately to the penetration points.
The metal roof sheets themselves are in good condition eliminating this too as a potential source of the roof leak.
The metal roof capping around the edge of the roof is located close to the balcony of the reported metal roof leak. Inspection of the metal roof capping reveals a build-up of leaf matter and silt underneath. This has the effect of enabling water to pool around the debris, build up, and then overflow over the top of the upturned end of the metal roof sheet.
The Solution
The solution to this particular metal roof leak is to remove the debris from underneath the capping: a simple solution but a time-consuming one as it is labour intensive. It involves bending each and every capping flashing downturn, scooping out by hand the offending debris, placing it in a bucket for removal from site, and folding the downturn back into place.
Roof cleans of this nature should be undertaken on an annual basis to avoid roof leaks. Removing the debris will also ensure there is nothing on the roof that will cause erosion of the metal roof sheets or block guttering and downpipes.
Contact Roofrite on 03 9499 8059, for Metal Roof Repairs, Metal Roof Restoration & Metal Re-Roofing
