Can a Flat Roof Be Repaired in the Rain?

by | Dec 18, 2023 | Flat Roof Repairs, Weather & Environmental Considerations

Repairing a flat roof in the rain is challenging, to say the least. Surfaces should be clean and dry before a repair attempt is made. Obviously, the rain makes that difficult. So, what can you do?

I’m going to give you an unconventional answer to that question by drawing a parallel between plumbing and flat roof repair.

Plumbing Parallel

I recently had a plumbing emergency at my house. Thankfully, it occurred during normal business hours. While talking with the plumber, I mentioned something about their emergency service. What he said next surprised me.

He said his company actively dissuades customers from using their emergency service. He said the best thing to do is turn off your water supply and wait until the next morning.

Why? Because emergency plumbing services cost a whole lot more than services delivered during normal business hours.

It’s the same for commercial flat roof repairs.

Contain The Problem

Bucket Capturing Leak From Flat Roof in the Rain | Flat Roof Solutions

If it’s raining hard outside and you have a roof leak, put a bucket or trash can under it and wait it out.

I say that because the best you can hope to do in the rain is attempt a temporary seal of the hole. There are sealants that claim they will adhere underwater, and they might work for a time, but the roofer will still have to come back when the rain stops to install a permanent patch. So, you would have one emergency service (typically charged at double time), and one regular service.

Save money and use a bucket.

Implement a Cost-Effective Solution

The best thing you can do, the most cost-effective solution to the problem, is to contain the leak until an effective patch can be installed during non-emergency hours. Instead of spending money on an inadequate temporary fix in the rain, wait until the weather clears to ensure a more successful and economical roof repair.

Expert Advice

Whether you’re a beginner, need advanced information about flat roofing topics, or a refresher,  this is where you can learn everything you need to know about commercial and industrial flat roofing.

Contact us for more information or pricing.

Subscribe


 

Author

Jared Van Vranken

Jared is Vice President and lead estimator at Flat Roof Solutions in Malvern, PA. He has directed the installation, repair, recovery, and replacement of commercial flat roofs for more than a decade at Flat Roof Solutions and guides clients in selecting the best roofing materials for their needs and budget.

You Might Also Like

Add your first comment to this post

Pin It on Pinterest

Share This