Your Flat Roof Vs. El Niño - Page 2

And for those, Feriante says, “If you eliminate all the plugged-up drains, you’re going to eliminate 95 percent of the problems with Eichler roofs.”

“An Eichler may have eight drains on it,” he continued. “Look at the ground around the house. What’s on the ground, that’s what’s on the drain.”

“Make sure your downspouts and drains are unclogged. That’s what’s important with flat roofs,” agrees Rossi, compiling a short list of suggestions for the proactive homeowner.

“Look for any signs of deterioration. Look for the roofing material pulling away from any flashing around the chimney, and any protrusions,” Rossi continued, referring to vents or electrical conduit sticking out of the roof. “And of course, clean out all gutters and drains. Other than that, there’s not much you can do.”

“Penetrations are a real source of leaks,” warns Feriante, citing 35 years’ experience with repairs to roofs—including those after homeowners have installed satellite dishes, or solar cells, or has pest control work done.

“The guys doing the [non-roofing] work just don’t know enough about roofing,” he explains. “If you don’t seal it [any roof penetration] properly, it’s going to leak around it.”

Feriante also recommended installing wire filters over drains, adding, “It’s a really good idea to use those, because the pipe can get plugged up. If you keep the pipe from getting plugged up, if you see rain coming out of it, then it’s no problem.”

Bottom line for roofing inspection and prep, Feriante emphasizes, it’s not too late this season to exercise vigilance. “There’s no substitute for getting up on the roof and cleaning the drain.”