Membrane and Flashing Defects in Low-Slope Roofing: Causes and Effects on Performance
Publication: Journal of Performance of Constructed Facilities
Volume 19, Issue 3
Abstract
Good roof performance requires proper design and specification, quality materials, professional workmanship, and proactive maintenance. Shortcomings in any phase of roof asset management will compromise performance and shorten service life. The objective of this study was to identify relationships between roof asset management processes and performance problems identified in an inventory of United States Army low-slope membrane roofs. First a review of literature pertaining to roof asset management was conducted. Next, a large Army roof inspection database was analyzed to identify the types and relative frequencies of common defects, and their impacts on performance. The writers and experienced inspectors then applied both engineering and field experience to provide expert analysis of the data. Approximately 75% of the performance problems in the sampled inventory were attributable to deficiencies caused by factors other than natural degradation. The writers conclude that roof performance can be significantly improved by strengthening quality assurance processes during installation, particularly by ensuring that installers comply with contract specifications and utilize industry-accepted construction practices.
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References
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Information & Authors
Information
Published In
Journal of Performance of Constructed Facilities
Volume 19 • Issue 3 • August 2005
Pages: 234 - 243
Copyright
© 2005 ASCE.
History
Received: Jun 27, 2003
Accepted: Sep 16, 2003
Published online: Aug 1, 2005
Published in print: Aug 2005
Authors
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