Deciding between patching a leak and replacing the entire roof depends on the age of the system, the percentage of saturated insulation, and the condition of the membrane's seams.
When Repair or Coating is Viable:
- Isolated Leaks: Damage is localized to a specific puncture or a single failing flashing around an HVAC unit.
- Good Insulation: Core testing shows the underlying polyiso insulation is still dry.
- Surface Aging: The membrane is intact but aging, making it a great candidate for a restorative silicone or elastomeric coating.
When Full Replacement is Necessary:
- Widespread Seam Failure: The glue or welds holding the membrane panels together are deteriorating across the roof.
- Saturated Insulation: Water has penetrated the membrane and soaked the insulation, destroying its R-value and rotting the deck.
- Chronic Ponding Water: Structural sagging is causing water to sit on the roof for more than 48 hours without draining.
Pro Tip: Don't guess. We can confirm whether your roof can be saved or needs replacing.