Roof Membrane Repair for Tearing and Splitting
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Why a Roof Membrane Might Split or Tear and What to do if it Does
Some types of roofing systems have a primary protective layer known as the membrane. The membrane is made of a waterproof material that protects the layers below from water damage if the roofing surface is compromised. Materials that are commonly used to create the roofing membrane include synthetic rubber, EPDM (ethylene propylene diene monomer), PVC, modified bitumen and TPO (thermoplastic olefin).
The roofing material for the membrane may be waterproof, but it isn't foolproof. The membrane can split or tear, which causes more significant issues with the roofing system.
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What Causes Roof Membrane Splits and Tears
A roofing membrane isn't used on every roof, but it is common with low slope and flat roofs that are likely to experience water ponding. The membrane is the basis of TPO roofing systems and other rubber roofing options that are commonly used for commercial buildings.
Rubber roof materials are very flexible, but they aren't rock solid. There are a number of things that can compromise the integrity of the roof membrane to the point that a tear or split forms.
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Extreme Temperatures
When the temperature swings high and low the fluctuations can cause the membrane to expand and contract. The movement increases the chance of tears or splits, especially at the seams.
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Damage From UV Rays
Roofs are going to take a beating from the sun no matter what material they're made of, but some materials are more UV resistant than others. The materials used for a roof membrane are resistant, however over time the UV rays degrade them. With each passing day the UV damage builds and makes the membrane more prone to tearing.
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Debris Collecting on the Roof Surface
If tree limbs and other debris collect on the roof surface that's a problem in itself, but it can lead to roofing problems like a split or tear in the roofing membrane. This happens when the debris causes physical damage to the roofing material.
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Hail Damage
In Texas, hail storms can cause serious structural damage. One issue with roofing systems that use a membrane is splits that are caused by the impact of hail when it hits the roof.
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Inadequate Drainage System
Flat and low slope roofs that have a membrane need to have great drainage or serious roofing problems can happen, including tears and splits in the membrane that can lead to a roof leak. Ponding water that sits on the roof surface puts stress on the roof membrane, which is why it can cause the membrane to split.
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High Amount of Foot Traffic
Walking across the roof adds stress from the weight and wears down the surface of the roofing material. In frequent foot traffic shouldn't be a problem, but regularly walking on the roof membrane could cause splits and cracks to form.
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Improper Maintenance
Regular inspections and maintenance are critical for avoiding preventable problems and extending the lifespan of any roofing system. Roof maintenance also helps you catch issues like debris buildup before they can cause further damage.
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Poor Installation
Membrane tears and splits are another problem that can be caused by improper installation. It can be the result of the membrane material itself being installed improperly or an issue that stems from the seams.
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Aging
A roof membrane ages over time and wears down just like any other roofing material. As the roof membrane ages it becomes less flexible and more brittle, making splits and tears more likely.

How to Repair a Roofing Membrane Split or Tear
Because the membrane is the protective layer of the roof system that prevents water damage, even tiny tears that cause small leaks need to be addressed quickly. Fixing the problem depends on the size of the split or tear.
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Patching Small Roof Membrane Splits and Tears
Fortunately, small splits and tears in the roof membrane can be patched with a sealant. The sealant needs to be waterproof and made for the type of roofing membrane you have installed. An ample amount should be used to ensure the tear or split is fully sealed.
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Replacing Damaged Roof Membrane Sections With Large Splits and Tears
If the split or tear is sizable a patch won't cut it. You'll need to remove the section that's damaged and replace it with a new piece of membrane. This is a repair that needs to be handled by an experienced professional or you could end up with more damage than before.
LOA is a roofing company that knows how to repair roof membrane splits and tears. Make sure your roof membrane is watertight by scheduling a free inspection.
