
Begin UNDER the roof. Look for signs of leakage such as stains on walls. If the roof deck is metal, inspect for rust. Note the location of any possible problem. When you are up on the roof, you will want to inspect those areas with extra care.
Up on the roof, take an overview first. Note any debris or water ponding. As you begin your closer inspection, take note of these things:
- Soft spots. These could signal moisture in the decking or insulation.
- Separations, wrinkles, or openings - especially around laps (where one sheet of the EPDM overlaps another) and perimeter flashing.
- Cuts, punctures, or tears.
- Raindrop-size moisture spot. If there is moisture in the substrate, the warmth of the sun can draw it out through a pinhole in the rubber.
- Seams
- Roof-wall junctions
- Vents and other penetrations (where something is sticking up out of the roof)
- Areas with roof-mounted equipment, especially if repair or service personnel have visited. Check for spills and damage caused by dropped tools.
- Shrinkage of 1-2% is common. This can add up to several feet over a large roof. This will show up at roof edges and seams.
- Uncured rubber used as flashing. Older roofs may have this issue. The uncured rubber is easier to mold, but becomes brittle.
- Chemical damage. Grease, animal fats, and petroleum solvents compromise EPDM.
- Direct steam venting from HVAC equipment can cause damage.