Common Roofing Issues: Moisture Trapped Under Roof Coating

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Common Roofing Issues: Moisture Trapped Under Roof Coating

Quality is at the heart of our Austin roofing company in every project we take on. Contact our experienced Central Texas roofers for a same-day, pressure-free inspection. Call 512-375-3654 to book your free inspection.

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It may be hard to believe that the thin layer of roof coating can have a huge impact on a building envelope, but it most certainly does. If the coating isn't applied correctly and moisture is trapped beneath the surface it can affect the entire roof assembly.

The excess moisture trapped beneath the coating isn't just a surface layer problem. The moisture can seep down further causing damage to the roof deck and roof sheathing. From there, if the problem continues structural damage occurs, the energy efficiency is reduced and the roof's lifespan can be shortened.

Don't let that happen to your roof. Find out what's causing moisture to become trapped and what you can do about it.

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Common Causes of Trapped Moisture

The whole point of the roofing system is to keep moisture out, but a number of problems can let it seep in. And certain roofs are more prone to moisture problems, including flat roof systems like a built up roof.

Some of the most common causes of trapped moisture are:

Improper Surface Preparation

Dirt, dust, loose material or old coatings can trap water underneath the new coating. It doesn't take much , which is why proper surface preparation is so important.
Roof Leaks or Failed Seams

Hidden leaks or cracks in the substrate let moisture enter, which then becomes sealed inside before the roof coating goes on. This can be seen around penetration points like roof vents typically.
High Humidity at Application

Applying the coating in humid conditions that create over damp surfaces can trap condensation. In some areas, the roof coating needs to be applied at certain times of year to minimize the risk.
Improper Drying Time

Rushing the process and not letting the substrate or prior layers dry fully leads to wet areas being locked in.
Gutter or Drain Issues

Standing water from clogged gutters and poor drainage can allow moisture to migrate under the coating more easily.

Repairing Roof Coating Moisture Damage

Here's the hard truth: ignoring trapped moisture is never the solution, even with materials like metal roofing. The moisture will vaporize and migrate, causing blisters, peeling and continued rot to the underlying substrate.

Building owners that are dealing with trapped moisture will be relieved to know that the problem can be addressed properly with proactive, professional roof repairs, and a properly applied coating can extend roof life as expected.

Here's what a professional roofing contractor can do to repair the damage, help you avoid costly repairs and ensure structural integrity.

Inspection and Diagnosis

In addition to doing a visual roof inspection, there are advanced techniques that can be used to detect where moisture is trapped under the roof coating. The roofing company can use infrared moisture scans, capacitance meters and moisture probes to pinpoint contaminated areas beneath the coating.

Infrared imaging is quick and non-invasive, revealing temperature differences on the roof surface that often signal the presence of moisture hidden beneath the coating. Moist, heat-retaining spots show up as anomalies in the scans, helping pinpoint areas for further testing. For deeper confirmation, electrical capacitance or impedance meters are used to measure moisture content across the roof and plot moisture maps. These devices roll across the roof membrane and provide immediate detection of damp sections.

In challenging cases, destructive testing methods like core sampling and moisture probes are sometimes necessary. Technicians take small samples from suspicious areas, then analyze these cores for hidden moisture at various layers.

Remove and Replace Wet Materials

You'll first need to remove the affected areas prior to re-coating. Carefully cut out sections of roof with saturated substrate. Remove all wet and damaged materials down to the dry and structurally sound layer, then allow the area to dry completely.

Restore and Re-Coat

Once damp portions are removed and the substrate is dry, apply primer that's designed for the roof material before re-coating to maximize adhesion and future waterproofing. Next, re-coat the repaired sections and overlap the new coating over adjacent, intact areas for a fully sealed, continuous membrane.

Prevent Future Moisture Problems With Roof Maintenance

Preventing future moisture problems requires maintenance moving forward. Clogged gutters, poor drainage and ponding water issues could allow moisture to return. It's important to schedule routine inspections and take maintenance measures after the repairs to catch leaks and standing water early.

Detecting moisture, addressing these root causes and performing roof maintenance is essential, not only to prevent further failures but to ensure the roof lasts as long as expected. Regular inspections, alongside thoughtful repairs and rigorous surface prep, make all the difference.

The LOA team will always follow manufacturer recommendations for coating application, do the proper surface preparation and take environmental conditions into account. We give property owners assurance that there won't be moisture problems with the roof coating. If you're in the Austin metro give us a call at 512-375-3654 to schedule a roof inspection or set up any roof service online.

We're One of the Highest Rated
Roofers in Austin for a Reason

At LOA, we believe success is defined by customer satisfaction. We're proud to say we have some of the happiest clients in the roofing industry! You can find hundreds of 5-star reviews like the ones below online.

"I got three inspections and decided to use LOA Construction for a new roof. LOA’s Dan Harvey worked with my insurance inspector to make sure all the hail/wind damage was accounted for, gave us a good choice of shingle colors, and was great at communicating. The workers did quality work, found and repaired rotted wood and cleaned up. Highly recommend!"

— Brian McFarlin, 5-Star Google Review

"Brandon at LOA construction made replacement of our roof very easy. He was the only roofing contractor that I could find that would work directly with our insurance company. They showed up on time and made the whole process very easy. And we have a great looking high quality roof! I Would definitely recommend them to anyone looking for a new roof. Give them a call if you need a roof or think you might have wind or hail damage. I had several other bids that were higher cost and didn't think our insurance would cover it. Our insurance did cover it, I think they were just unwilling to work with the insurance company. Not Brandon, not only was he will to work with our insurance he met with the adjuster and made the whole thing a breeze. Thanks again LOA and Brandon!!!!"

— Mike A., 5-Star Google Review

LOA Construction has exceeded my expectations again. This is the second roof installation with them and I couldn't be happier. Specifically, Tyler Griffiths is professional, attentive, and made the entire process of working with my insurance company effortless. My tenant sent a glowing account of their experience as well. Knowing it was a rental, they still diligently protected all property and plants. They were on time every time and went out of their way to not inconvenience the residents. LOA Construction has integrity and takes pride in their work. I couldn't recommend them more.

— Sheri Moran

"Worked with Zac and his team. Zac did an outstanding job working with the insurance company to ensure all damage was covered. Roof and gutters installed each were on time and all work was top of the line. This is a company that really does put the customer first. With out question I would recommend loa construction and roofing."

— Tony Smith, 5-Star Google Review

From the very start, I knew I was in good hands. The professionalism was top-notch, but most important, was the caring attitude of the project manager, Dan Harvey, the roofing supervisor, Ambrocio, and the roofing crew. They made sure every detail was covered. They are definitely an asset to LOA Construction. I highly recommend them. Dennis and Suzy S

— Dennis Sanger

Andrew was very great at getting myself and my wife all the information and getting us started from start to completion. His workers were friendly and professional. If ever I had to contact him, he was quick to respond back. We are very happy with the finished product. Yes, I would and have recommended him and his company to get their work by LOA Construction and Austin. Andrew made sure my wife would be satisfied with whatever roof she liked. Can't thank you enough Andrew and LOA Construction.

— Paul Coleman

As a first time home owner with no experience in how to make claims and start the process of getting a new roof I was scared to the point of avoiding what needed to get done after the bad hail storm. August Walker did an amazing job walking me through each step along the way. He answered all my questions and calmed my concerns. They inspected my roof and drove from Austin to Belton just to be there with the ins inspector, and followed up with me in person after the roof was installed. He also made a special trip back to drop off samples! I’m grateful to August and LOA construction for being highly professional and friendly!

— Angela Baker

From start to finish Lee and his team took great care of us. He made us feel comfortable during the process and answered any and all questions we had. I would definitely them recommend to anyone.

— Taneisha Jones

Arthur Harris and his team with LOA Construction did an excellent job on our roof. They finished it in one day. Arthur was very good in explaining all the information to us.

— Crystal Hill

Will, has been so awesome and easy to work with he gets everything we want done the way we want it and also keeps us updated as we are over the road truck drivers !!! Hands down to LOA Construction for their great service and great customer service !!!

— Tanya Dudkiewicz

Dan Harvey is Very Knowledgeable and directed me straight to the products that will save us money in the next 3 years the savings on energy costs alone will pay for the installation itself. I highly recommend LOA Construction and Dan Harvey! Actual Customer Jefferson Fara

— Jefferson Fara

Mark from LOA roofing was very professional from the git, the initial estimate process, he quickly identified all the issues that needed to be addressed. The company was very prompt, to coordinate the crew, and for a very reasonable price, got my roof repaired without any hassle. They also took care of all the cleaning, so that it all looked like nothing happened. I would recommend Mark from LOA to anyone needing a roof repair, with no kind of hesitation.

— Ale León

Loa Construction provides quality services in installing roof and related repairs. I’ll recommend it to my friends and family.

— Peijie Li

Thanks to Landon Wells of LOA Construction for the beautiful new roof! It was all completed in one day including a meticulous clean up job afterwards. The workers were all polite and professional. Landon made sure everything went smoothly and that all of our questions were answered. I am thrilled with our new roof. I would definitely recommend Landon and LOA Construction to all of my friends and family. Thank you Landon!

— Renee Johnson

Choose quality roofing for a lasting investment in your home.

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Dedicated to excellence, our Austin roofing company ensures quality in every project. Contact our skilled Central Texas roofers for a same-day, hassle-free inspection. Call +1 (512) 375-3654 to book your free inspection.