Flat Roof Repairs, Replacement and New Flat Roofs in Malahide

Materials and work covered

We work with reinforced bitumen (including torch-on), EPDM, GRP, PVC and FPO/TPO single-ply membranes and liquid-applied systems. None of these is the right answer for every roof. Suitability depends on the deck, the falls, how the roof is used and accessed, how many penetrations and junctions it has, and what it adjoins, so a system is proposed after assessment rather than chosen in advance.

The three kinds of work we carry out are different jobs with different scopes. A repair deals with a defined fault in a covering that is otherwise serviceable. Replacement removes a failed covering and installs a new system, with deck and insulation condition dealt with as found. A new installation covers a roof that does not yet exist, such as a planned extension, where the design information has to come first.

Repair, replacement or a new flat roof: how the route is chosen

The route follows from evidence rather than from the age of the roof. A repair is reasonable when the fault can be located, the surrounding covering is still bonded and sound, and the material can be matched with a compatible repair. Replacement comes into the discussion when faults are spread across the surface, earlier patches keep failing, the covering has lost adhesion over large areas or the deck beneath needs substantial work anyway.

Sometimes both are defensible. In that case it is fair to ask for the repair and the replacement to be scoped separately, so you can see what each one deals with and what each one leaves in place. We will not present replacement as the only option where a sound repair would do the job.

Finding where the water actually enters

On a flat roof the visible stain and the point of entry are often some distance apart, because water can run along the deck before it finds a way down. Typical entry points are the upstand where the roof meets a wall, perimeter trims, rooflight kerbs, pipe penetrations, outlets and laps or seams between sheets. Splits and blisters in the main surface are possible too, but junctions deserve the first look.

Useful information when you enquire: where the mark shows inside, whether it appears only in certain weather, how long it has been happening and whether anyone has repaired the roof before. Any old paperwork naming the original system helps, but it is not needed and nobody needs to go up to check.

For the signs worth noting before you call, read when a flat roof needs repair.

When replacing the covering is the better use of money

Replacement is not just a larger repair. It means stripping the existing covering, assessing the deck once it is exposed, dealing with wet or damaged boards or insulation where found, and installing a complete system with its upstands, trims and outlets detailed together. Because the roof is opened up, it is also the point at which drainage falls and outlet positions can be reconsidered.

A replacement can be like for like or a change of system. Moving from one membrane family to another is possible in many cases, but it has to suit the deck, the use of the roof and the way it meets adjoining walls and roofs. The quotation should name the proposed system and explain why it was chosen for that roof.

For a broader look at the decision, read roof repair versus replacement.

New flat roofs on extensions and other structures

A new flat roof starts with the building design rather than a failing covering. For a planned extension, garage, dormer or similar structure, the drawings and specification should establish the deck, falls, insulation position, ventilation where required, drainage outlets and how the roof connects to the existing building. The covering is chosen to suit that design.

Structural design and any approvals the project needs are separate responsibilities from the roofing installation, and who holds them should be clear before work is agreed. Share whatever drawings and specifications you have when you enquire so we can see how the roof has been designed and where the roofing scope begins and ends.

What the deck and insulation decide

Every flat-roof system relies on a firm, dry base. If water has been getting in for some time, boards can soften and insulation can hold moisture. Either condition can undermine a surface repair, and a coating or new membrane laid over wet material may simply hide the problem.

Not every leak means the deck has failed. Where damage is suspected, the quotation should explain which area may need opening up and how any findings will be shown to you and agreed before extra work proceeds. Please do not cut into the membrane or the ceiling below to check for wet material.

For care after a repair or new roof, see maintaining a flat roof in Ireland.

Arranging flat roof work in Malahide

Malahide is part of the area we serve from Blanchardstown. When you get in touch, say whether you need a repair looked at, are considering replacement, or are planning a new flat roof, and which part of the building is involved. Mention any access constraints you know about. Photographs taken safely from the ground or from inside are welcome but optional.

The written quotation should state the type of work, the area covered, the system and materials proposed, how junctions and outlets are handled, and anything excluded or depending on what is found. Price follows that scope and is not estimated from floor area alone.

Frequently asked questions

How do I know whether my flat roof needs repair or replacement?

You do not need to decide that yourself. An assessment looks at where the fault is, how much of the covering is still sound and the likely condition of the deck. If both options are reasonable, ask for each to be scoped so you can compare them.

Can you install a flat roof on a new extension?

Yes. New installations are planned from the extension's drawings and specification, so falls, insulation, drainage and the connection to the existing building are considered with the covering. Structural design and any approvals are separate matters that should be settled first.

Can I change from felt to a different system when the roof is replaced?

Often, but not automatically. EPDM, GRP, PVC, FPO/TPO and liquid-applied systems each have conditions for the deck, detailing and use of the roof. We explain whether a change suits your roof before recommending one.

Is a coating a cheaper alternative to replacement?

A liquid-applied system can suit some existing roofs once the surface, compatibility and deck have been checked. It is not suitable over wet insulation, a soft deck or an unidentified covering, and it does not correct poor falls.

Water sits on my flat roof after rain. Is that a fault?

Standing water can point to a dip in the deck, a restricted outlet or insufficient fall, and it puts extra demand on laps and repairs nearby. A patch will not change the falls; if drainage is part of the problem, the options are explained separately.

Request a Roofing Quote for Flat Roof Repairs in Malahide

Send Emerald Isle Roofers Dublin your details and a short description of the work required.

Emergency roofing: 083 158 8431