As the weather in Nottingham changes rapidly, it becomes crucial to maintain the roof’s condition. Changing weather can cause roof blisters on commercial and residential roofs leading to soaked insulation and ruined membrane. Roofs with membranes are more prone to blistering because of gaps between the membrane plies or the substrate and membrane.

This post is going to be your partner if you are planning to repair your roof membrane. To begin with, let’s discuss what actually a roof membrane is and why it is used.

What is a Roofing Membrane and why is it used?

Roofing Membrane is a type of waterproof roofing system that is predominantly used on buildings with flat roofs. It is used to make a watertight covering to protect the structure. Moreover, it protects the building’s interior from damage caused by water leakage and provides warmth and insulation. Most membrane roofs are made of synthetic rubber, thermoplastic or modified bitumen.

Now let’s move on to different kinds of roof membranes available on the market and how to find your membrane type so you can proceed accordingly.

1.   Built-Up Roof Membranes (BUR)

BURs, also called tar and gravel roofs, are made by using alternate layers of bitumen and fabric. They are cost-effective and commonly used in commercial buildings in Nottingham. If they are installed properly by experienced Nottingham roofing companies and maintained well, they can last for 25 years.

2.   Modified Bituminous Membrane

It is a heat and weather-resistant membrane also called mod bit roof membrane. It is mostly used in flat pitched roofs and is usually installed in two layers. However, sometimes it is installed in multiple layers.

3.   Modified SBS Bitumen Membrane

Modified SBS membranes are more durable and flexible as they are made from a combination of asphalt and rubber. It is a peel-and-stick roofing membrane with adhesive backing. These membranes are resistant to ageing. They remain flexible and durable even after ageing.

4.   APP Modified Bitumen Membrane

It is a synthesized form of modified bitumen made with plastomers. They have resistant to low temperatures and maintain their durability in cold temperatures. They are applied by torch-heating the sheet’s bottom and rolling down the membrane.

5.   EPDM Roof Membrane

EPDM has a 58-year track record of outstanding flexibility, elongation, UV resistance, and hail damage resistance. Dark-coloured EPDM helps building owners save on heating expenses, while light-coloured EPDM saves on cooling costs.

Steps to repair the roof membrane from the inside

Now you can easily identify what type of membrane is used on your roof so you can easily repair it by following these steps.

1.   Check for leaks

To understand how to fix a leaking roof from the inside, try tracing the path of dropping water as it enters the ceiling through the attic of the roof. You can easily divert the water by quickly putting a nail into the hole from where the water is draining.

It is necessary to cut the patch material in such a way that it stretches at least two inches in all directions beyond the damaged region. Remove any sharp edges by snipping them off or rounding them off. This will prevent foot traffic on the roof surface from catching and lifting any jagged edges. Don’t forget to take measurements of the affected region.

3.   Apply Primer to the Repaired Area

Use a paintbrush or a paint roller with a medium-nap roller cover to apply a thin layer of roofing primer to the surface of the membrane where the patch will be placed. Make sure that the primer goes past all of the edges of the area that needs mending.

4.   Apply a patch to the leak point

After locating the leak(s), make a temporary repair. Drying the roof helps find the leak. This will help when you need a lasting solution. Apply adhesive, roll the patch to remove air bubbles and adhere to it.

5.   Seal the Patch Sides

Apply a bead of sealant around the patch’s border to ensure that all of the edges are sealed. You can use an old credit card or any other instrument made of plastic to smooth and flatten the sealant.

6.   Inspect the external roof

After patching a leak in the roof, caulking is just as important as checking the shingles, underlayment or damaged flashings. Also, make sure to clear the roof of any heavy foreign objects that have made the roof their home.

Choosing the best company for roof repair in Nottingham

A roof membrane can be damaged and must be repaired as soon as possible after its typical life. If it is not repaired, it will cause leaks, affecting the structure and the inside of the building. You can repair it for the time being but it is recommended to hire any expert Nottingham roofing company for roof repair in Nottingham to avoid problems in the future. Only professionals like MC Roofing Expert can determine the extent of damage and guide you on whether you need a full waterproofing membrane replacement or just the repair.