I’ve noticed the same thing with gravel roofs—people see a patch of exposed felt and panic, but it’s usually just cosmetic unless there’s pooling water. I agree on the infrared cameras, though. I borrowed one from a friend last year after a leak, and it definitely helped pinpoint the problem area. Still, if you don’t know how to interpret the images, it’s easy to misread normal temperature differences as leaks. I’d rather check twice than start ripping out drywall for no reason.
Gravel roofs are wild, right? I remember the first time I saw a patch of exposed felt on one, I thought the whole thing was about to cave in. Turns out, it was just where the wind had blown some gravel off. My boss just shrugged and said, “If you don’t see a puddle, don’t sweat it.” Guess that’s the unofficial motto for flat roofs.
About those infrared cameras—man, I tried using one once and felt like I was playing a weird game of thermal hide-and-seek. I kept thinking every cold spot was a leak. Ended up chasing a “leak” that was actually just a shadow from a vent pipe. My supervisor had a good laugh about that one. I get why people want to double-check before tearing into anything. Drywall surgery is not my idea of a good time.
I’m curious, though—how often do folks actually get their business roofs checked? I’ve seen some places go years without anyone even glancing up there, then suddenly they’re shocked when water starts dripping onto the copier. Meanwhile, other places are calling us every six months for a walk-around, even if nothing’s wrong. Is there a sweet spot? Or is it just “wait until it leaks and then panic”?
Also, does anyone else think gravel roofs are just an excuse for birds to have a rock garden? I swear, I’ve seen more pigeons up there than actual leaks.
Funny you mention the birds—I've seen gulls actually drop shells up there to crack them open. Gravel roofs are like their own little ecosystem sometimes. As for inspections, I usually recommend at least once a year, but honestly, it depends a lot on the building’s age and what kind of weather it sees. Some clients want quarterly checks, especially after a rough winter or big windstorm. I’ve noticed that places with a regular maintenance schedule tend to avoid those “surprise waterfalls” in the office. Has anyone had luck with drone inspections for gravel roofs? I’m curious if that’s catching on or just a fad.
That bit about the gulls using gravel roofs as their own buffet made me laugh—nature just finds a way, I guess. I totally get what you mean about regular checks preventing those “surprise waterfalls.” When we bought our place last year, the inspector warned us that our flat, gravel roof would be a magnet for all kinds of mischief—birds, branches, even the neighbor’s kid’s frisbee (which turned up after the first big rain). We’re in a spot with wild spring storms and heavy snow, so I’ve been a little paranoid about leaks.
“Has anyone had luck with drone inspections for gravel roofs? I’m curious if that’s catching on or just a fad.”
I actually asked a local roofer about drones and he said they’re great for spotting obvious stuff—like pooling water or missing gravel patches—but not so much for the smaller cracks or seam issues. He still recommended getting up there at least once a year for a hands-on look. Maybe drones will get better, but right now it seems like they’re more of an extra tool than a full replacement. Still, if it saves someone from climbing an icy ladder in February, I’m all for it.
“He still recommended getting up there at least once a year for a hands-on look.”
That’s been my approach too—spring and fall, I do a walkaround with a flashlight and a broom (and occasionally a hockey stick for lost toys). Drones are cool for a quick peek, but nothing beats poking at seams yourself. I’ve caught tiny splits that a camera never would’ve seen.
