You’ve probably seen many flat roofs in Florida, but did you know they’ve been around for thousands of years? Since we spend a lot of time on them, we might as well talk about them! Today, we’re going to discuss how flat roofs have been used throughout history, as well as give you some good maintenance tips to keep them in tip-top shape. Read on to find out more!

A Mini History Lesson

Flat roofs go way back; historians estimate that they began to become popular during the ancient Egyptian period. In hot, dry places where it didn’t rain as much, flat roofs made a lot of sense. They used to be made with mud, reeds, or other earthy materials close by. People also used them like patios to hang out or to sleep on. If we fast forward to ancient Mesopotamia, Greece, and Rome, flat roofs were still popping up all over the place in warmer climates. However, once buildings became slightly more sophisticated, they were more likely to be made of stone or clay rather than mud. Now, if we jump ahead to the early(ish) 20th century in the U.S., you begin to see flat roofs on commercial buildings and modern homes, specifically in the south. They looked clean, nice, and overall were easier to maintain. Today, flat roofs are everywhere, especially in central Florida. Now, let’s talk about some maintenance tips to keep your flat roof in the best shape possible!

Maintenance Tips

Here are some tips that we tell every flat roof owner:

Keep The Drains Clear

Water is literally your flat roof’s worst enemy. If the drains or scuppers get clogged, water starts to pool, and that leads to leaks and all sorts of problems. To check for any issues, look up there after heavy storms and make sure everything’s draining like it should.

Watch for Collecting Water

If you notice standing water hanging out for more than two days after a rainstorm, that is not a good sign. It could mean your roof isn’t sloped quite right or something’s blocking drainage, causing the water to stay there and pool.

Trim Back Trees

Branches scraping on your roof will wear down the protective layer over time. Also, leaves can clog drains, so keeping trees trimmed can save you money in the long run!

Don’t Ignore Ceiling Stains

We’ve all experienced the dread of looking up at our ceiling and seeing a small, brown-like water stain slowly making its way across. If your first reaction is to ignore it, don’t! These stains need to be addressed immediately because they could be a “symptom” of something far worse.

Call Us, the Pros!

If you’re feeling overwhelmed or not up to the task of taking a peek at your roof, call us at EZ Roofing Systems! We specialize in flat roof repair and installation, and are ready to meet your roofing needs.

Flat roofs have been around forever, and we want yours to stick around for a while too! Give us a call at EZ Roofing Systems, and we’ll make sure your roof stays flat, dry, and problem-free.