I get the logic behind patching, but I’m not sure it’s always the best call, even short-term.
—I’d actually argue that sometimes, even with a tight budget, a small re-slope (like adding tapered insulation) can be less hassle than constant patchwork. I tried patching for two years and still ended up with water stains inside. If you can swing it, fixing the underlying drainage issue might be cheaper than it looks, especially if you factor in the cost of repeated repairs and potential interior damage.“just fixing the slope once would’ve saved a ton in the long run”
Flat roofs and heavy rain: is it a disaster waiting to happen?
I hear you on the patching vs. fixing debate. I went down the patching rabbit hole for a while—every time it rained hard, I’d be up there with a bucket of tar, hoping for the best. It worked... until it didn’t. The stains on my ceiling told the real story.
Honestly, if you can manage even a small re-slope (I used tapered insulation panels), it’s a game changer. Not cheap up front, but after factoring in all those patch kits, wasted weekends, and the one time I had to replace drywall in my living room, it actually balanced out. Plus, less stress every time the forecast calls for rain.
One thing I’d add—if you’re in a spot with freeze/thaw cycles, standing water is just asking for trouble. Even a little bit of slope helps keep things moving off the roof. Patching has its place, but if you’re seeing repeat leaks or stains inside, might be time to bite the bullet and fix the root cause.
Patching has its place, but if you’re seeing repeat leaks or stains inside, might be time to bite the bullet and fix the root cause.
Couldn’t agree more. I see a lot of folks try to get by with patching, but once those leaks start showing up inside, it’s usually a sign there’s bigger trouble brewing up top. Tapered insulation is a smart move—cost me up front, but honestly, it paid for itself in peace of mind. If you’re dealing with heavy rain and especially freeze/thaw, standing water will just keep coming back to haunt you. Prevention’s way less stressful than repair, at least in my experience.
Tapered insulation definitely helps, but I’ve seen cases where even that wasn’t enough if the drains weren’t maintained. Curious—has anyone had luck with those newer membrane systems holding up under pooling water, or do they just delay the inevitable?
I’ve seen those newer membranes hold up better than the old torch-down stuff, but if water’s pooling for days, even the best membrane is just buying you time. Had a client with a fancy PVC system—looked great, but after a couple years of clogged drains, seams started to separate. Maintenance is still king. Membranes help, but they’re not magic. If the water’s not moving, you’re gambling.
