Appraisal of Flat Roof Defects in Commercial Buildings and the Remediation Techniques

Abstract

Recently, there has been a trend in Malaysia where many buildings have been built with a concrete flat roof instead of the usual pitch roof. Some buildings have a combination of sloped roofs and flat roofs, where the flat roof surface is used to house facility equipment. Roof constructions in equatorial climates often suffer from surface-related problems, damage to the waterproofing membrane, and fractures in the roof parapet wall. These issues are caused by the hot and humid conditions that persist throughout the year. As a result, periodic maintenance is necessary to address these typical faults. This study aims to examine the different types of flat roof defects, as well as recommendation of remediation techniques. The methods employed for data collection include case studies and formal interview sessions with the professionals in the built environment. Based on the findings, there were few types of flat roof defects such as water pounding, membrane damage, blistering, cracking, vegetation growth, sagging and material degradation. Several rectification procedures were suggested, including implementing an efficient drainage system, adhering to a regular maintenance plan, applying waterproofing coating or membrane, regularly removing debris, and utilizing epoxy injection. The identification of various varieties of flat roof defects and the proposed modifications will be of interest to designers and those responsible for the maintenance of flat-roofed buildings in Malaysia.