Flat roofs are a popular choice for both residential and commercial properties across Long Island. Whether it’s a home addition, a garage, or a business facility, flat roofs offer unique benefits — but they also require specialized maintenance to ensure longevity and performance.
At Baba Roofing, we’ve worked on hundreds of flat roofs throughout Nassau and Suffolk County, and we’ve seen firsthand how proper care can prevent costly problems. In this post, we’ll share expert maintenance tips for flat roofing systems, how to spot issues early, and when to schedule professional inspections.
Why Flat Roofs Require Special Attention
Unlike sloped roofs, flat roofs don’t shed water or snow naturally. That means standing water, debris, and snow can accumulate more easily, increasing the risk of:
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Ponding and water intrusion
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Membrane damage or blistering
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Mold and algae growth
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Structural stress from excess weight
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Shortened roof lifespan
Routine maintenance is essential — especially with Long Island’s seasonal weather fluctuations.
Types of Flat Roofs Common on Long Island
Before we dive into maintenance, it’s helpful to know the type of flat roof system you have. Common materials include:
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EPDM (Rubber Roofing) – Durable and cost-effective, with good resistance to UV and weather.
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TPO (Thermoplastic Olefin) – Lightweight, reflective, and energy-efficient.
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PVC – Excellent resistance to chemicals and fire, ideal for commercial properties.
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Modified Bitumen – Asphalt-based, flexible, and great for residential applications.
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Built-Up Roofing (BUR) – Traditional tar-and-gravel system, long-lasting but heavy.
Each system has different maintenance needs — but all benefit from the routine steps outlined below.
8 Flat Roof Maintenance Tips to Extend Lifespan
1. Schedule Bi-Annual Inspections
At minimum, you should inspect your flat roof twice a year — ideally in the spring and fall — and after any major storm.
During an inspection, look for:
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Cracks, blisters, or punctures in the membrane
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Standing water or ponding
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Blocked drains or gutters
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Loose flashing around vents, pipes, or HVAC units
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Surface wear or material deterioration
Tip: Let the pros handle it. Baba Roofing offers full-service roof inspections with photos, reports, and expert recommendations.
2. Keep the Roof Clean and Debris-Free
Leaves, branches, and even trash can clog drains and allow water to pool. Regularly remove debris, especially in fall or after storms.
Neglected buildup can cause:
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Drain backups and overflows
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Accelerated wear in high-debris areas
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Algae or moss growth on membrane surfaces
3. Check and Clean Drains and Gutters
Flat roofs rely on a drainage system to direct water away. If drains or scuppers are blocked, ponding can occur — which is one of the leading causes of leaks.
Clean all roof drains regularly, especially before and after heavy rain or snow. If you notice slow drainage, call a professional to check for clogs in the downspouts or internal piping.
4. Look for Ponding Water
Ponding (standing water that remains for over 48 hours) can degrade roofing materials and increase the risk of leaks.
Common causes include:
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Blocked drains
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Inadequate slope design
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Settling or sagging of the roof deck
If you notice frequent ponding, don’t ignore it — it’s often a sign that repairs or slope corrections are needed.
5. Seal Cracks and Repair Membrane Damage Promptly
Minor damage such as cracks, blisters, or punctures can be repaired easily if caught early. Left untreated, they can develop into large leaks or lead to interior damage.
Watch for:
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Soft spots underfoot (indicating trapped moisture)
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Bubbles or air pockets in the membrane
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Exposed reinforcement layers
At Baba Roofing, we use compatible materials to make durable, weatherproof repairs that extend the life of your flat roof.
6. Protect Roof Penetrations and Flashing
HVAC units, plumbing vents, skylights, and electrical conduits all penetrate the roof — and are common sources of leaks if not sealed properly.
Inspect flashing around all penetrations to ensure:
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No rust, separation, or lifting
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Sealant is intact and not cracked or missing
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Fasteners are tight and corrosion-free
7. Avoid Excessive Foot Traffic
Walking on flat roofs can cause wear and tear, especially on aging materials. If roof access is necessary (e.g., for HVAC maintenance), install walk pads or limit access to professionals.
Avoid:
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Dragging tools or equipment
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Standing water while walking
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Excessive weight near roof edges or drainage areas
8. Invest in a Professional Maintenance Plan
Having a roofing professional maintain your flat roof annually ensures early issue detection, better documentation, and peace of mind. Baba Roofing offers affordable maintenance plans for homes and commercial properties across Long Island.
Benefits include:
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Scheduled inspections and cleanings
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Priority service for emergency calls
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Extended roof warranties
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Reduced long-term repair costs
Signs It’s Time for a Professional Flat Roof Inspection
Call Baba Roofing if you notice:
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Water stains on ceilings or walls
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Higher energy bills (could mean insulation issues)
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Visible roof membrane damage
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Persistent standing water
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Musty odors in your attic or top floor
We’ll inspect, diagnose, and repair any issues before they become major problems — and we’ll do it right the first time.
Protect Your Property with Baba Roofing
Whether your flat roof is aging or brand new, the key to long-term performance is regular maintenance and fast action on small issues.
📞 Call Baba Roofing today at 631 552-6884
🔗 Request a free flat roof inspection or estimate
We serve all of Long Island — and we’re ready to protect your roof, your property, and your investment.
Baba Roofing – Your Local Flat Roofing Experts in Nassau & Suffolk County
