AboutRon Haynes Expertise I can answer questions related to all types of steep slope and low-slope commercial and residential roofing, including asphalt shingles, metal roofing, built-up roofing (tar and gravel), modified bitumen roofing, single ply roof systems, tile, and slate. Questions may relate to design, installation, problem resolution or repair of the roof system.
Experience I have over twenty years experience as a roof consultant dealing with various types of roof systems on commercial, industrial, residential and Government facilities. Experience includes new roof and reroof design, roof repair specification, roof construction, maintenance, failure investigations, performance analysis, inspections, moisture intrusion surveys and studies, and storm damage assessments. I am a registered professional engineer and a Registered Roof Consultant with the Roof Consultants Institute.
Organizations Roof Consultants Institute
Education/Credentials Bachelors Degree in Civil Engineering
Registered Professional Engineer
Registered Roof Consultant, Roof Consultants Institute Certified Infrared Thermographer
Awards and Honors Award Winner, Large Roof Replacement Design Document Competition at the 1999 Roof Consultants Institute International Convention. Dept of Navy Meritorious Civilian Service Award. Armed Forces Civilian Service Medal.
Question What is the best way to repair a torch down roof that is leaking
at the seams. the roof is 10 yrs old and in good condition but
it is coming apart at the vertical seams. the roof is 70 ft long and couldnt be put down in one piece
Answer Ken,
By "vertical seams" I assume you are referring to the seams that turn up the base of a wall or curb. If the seams are simply opening up but the membrane remains in contact with the roof, transition, and vertical surface with no bridging across the transition area, the seams were never properly sealed. This can be repaired with fiberglass mesh and modified bitumen roof cement. Layer in the cement and mesh to reseal the lap seam. Apply cement, mesh, cement, mesh, cement.
If there is bridging or tenting across the transition area the membrane was not properly laid and adhered to the underlying surface or shinkage has caused the bridging to occur. To repair this condition you need to first cut/slit the bridging membrane to allow it to lay flat. Adhere the loose, cut membrane with modified bitumen roof cement/adhesive. Brush away loose granules then apply a strip of new modified bitumen membrane over the lap area and extend the new membrane minimum 3 inches beyond the cut(s). Or, alternately, apply the alternating layers of mod bit cement and mesh as above.
If the open seams are in the field of the roof, applying a strip of new membrane over the existing is the best approach. Brush away loose granules before applying the new membrane over the seam area.
