How Do I Maintain My Foam Roof?

A foam roof has the advantage of being a lifetime roof, as long as it is properly installed and maintained. There are so many advantages to having a foam roof in Scottsdale and Arizona, and they have become a favorite roof here in the desert because of those advantages. Notice that I mentioned the words “if properly installed and maintained.”

If a foam roof is NOT installed properly or maintained, there are common issues that may crop up, such as:

Moisture and leaks

If the foam roof is not properly installed or if there are any defects or damage in the protective coating, moisture can penetrate the foam layer and lead to leaks. Over time, water intrusion can cause damage to the underlying structure and insulation.
Ultraviolet (UV) degradation: Foam roofs are susceptible to UV radiation damage. Without adequate protection, prolonged exposure to the sun’s UV rays can cause the foam to deteriorate, leading to cracking, chalking, and loss of insulation properties.

Foam shrinkage

In some cases, foam roofs may experience shrinkage due to improper installation or exposure to excessive heat. Shrinkage can result in gaps and cracks in the foam layer, compromising its effectiveness as a barrier against water and thermal transfer.

Ponding water

If the roof’s slope is inadequate or there are areas of improper drainage, water may accumulate and form pools or “ponding.” Ponding water can accelerate the degradation of the protective coating and lead to leaks or structural issues.

Mechanical damage

Foam roofs can be vulnerable to damage from foot traffic, falling debris, or other physical impacts. If the foam layer is punctured or damaged, it can compromise the roof’s integrity and increase the risk of leaks.

Insufficient insulation

Over time, the insulating properties of foam roofs can deteriorate, resulting in reduced energy efficiency. This can lead to increased heating or cooling costs and a less comfortable indoor environment.

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How do I prevent my foam roof from being destroyed?

To address these common issues, it’s important to conduct regular inspections and maintenance of your foam roof. Some recommended steps include:

• Regularly inspecting the roof for any signs of damage, cracks, or moisture intrusion.
• Ensuring proper drainage and addressing any ponding issues promptly.
• Repairing any damaged or deteriorated areas of the protective coating.
• Applying protective coatings or re-coating the foam roof as recommended by the manufacturer.
• Conducting routine cleaning to remove dirt, debris, and organic growth that can compromise the roof’s performance. We here at TraVek Roofing recommend cleaning the roof at least twice a year.
• Consulting with professional roofing contractors experienced in foam roofs for regular maintenance and repairs.

By addressing issues early on and maintaining your foam roof properly, you can extend its lifespan and ensure optimal performance.

Call the TraVek Roofing Professionals at 480-367-1171 to set a time for an inspection of your foam roof.