Flat roofs on houses, outbuildings and small commercial premises in the west of Ireland take constant punishment from wind-driven rain and salt-laden air. Over time the felt or membrane splits along seams, laps lift and water finds its way into the deck. Early repair prevents the deck from softening and keeps internal damp from spreading into ceilings and walls.
Common triggers for repair calls include cracked asphalt around outlets, perished flashings where the roof meets parapets, and moss that holds moisture against the surface. In agricultural buildings, cattle sheds and stores often show the same pattern after decades of exposure without regular clearing of leaves and debris from outlets.
Repair work may involve cutting out damaged sections, re-felting or overlaying with compatible single-ply membrane, renewing edge trims and improving the fall to outlets. Where the original deck remains sound, localised patches and new upstands frequently restore weathertightness without stripping the entire roof.
Access on many older properties is tight, with ladders needed over gardens or yards, so the job often starts with a careful check of safe working platforms and protection of rainwater goods that discharge into shared drains.
Technician insight
In Galway the thing that catches most people out with flat roof repair is how wind-driven rain forces water under old felt edges on 1970s and 1980s houses, especially where the original outlets sit too high and allow ponding against the parapet.
Example Situation
For example, a property may experience repeated leaks after heavy wind-driven rain. Inspection reveals failed seams along the edges. Repair involves cleaning, applying new membrane sections, and improving falls for drainage. This resolves the water ingress without full replacement.
Flat Roof Repair Services We Offer
✓Felt Roof Patch Repair
Cut out and replace damaged felt sections, re-seal laps and dress new felt into existing outlets.
✓Asphalt Roof Patching
Repair splits and blisters in traditional asphalt coverings on older flat roofs.
✓Single Ply Membrane Repair
Weld or adhesive-fix new membrane patches over failed seams or punctures.
✓Flat Roof Drainage Improvement
Adjust falls, clear or replace outlets and add additional rainwater outlets where ponding occurs.
✓Parapet and Edge Flashing Renewal
Replace or re-dress lead and felt upstands where wind-driven rain enters behind the roof edge.
✓Moss and Algae Removal on Flat Roofs
Clean surface growth that traps moisture and accelerates covering breakdown.
How it works
- 1
Site Inspection
Check roof condition, identify entry points, note deck type and access constraints.
- 2
Scope and Quotation
List required repairs, materials and any drainage adjustments needed.
- 3
Repair Work
Carry out cutting, patching, sealing and drainage work in one visit where possible.
- 4
Final Check
Test outlets, inspect seams and clear debris before leaving site.
Pricing
Scope and cost depend on roof size, number of penetrations, extent of deck damage, access difficulty and whether multiple outlets need attention.