About Roof Penetrations
A roof penetration is any object that passes through the roof membrane, such as HVAC units, vents, pipes, and skylights. In commercial and industrial roofing, penetrations are the most vulnerable areas for leaks and require specialized flashing and sealing techniques to maintain a watertight barrier. Proper detailing around penetrations is critical for the long-term performance of the roof system.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why do roof penetrations leak?
Leaks often occur due to improper flashing installation, deterioration of sealants over time, or movement of the penetrating object.
How are roof penetrations sealed?
They are typically sealed using custom-fabricated metal flashing, pitch pockets, or specialized liquid-applied flashing systems.
Can new penetrations be added to an existing commercial roof?
Yes, but it requires a professional roofing contractor to properly cut, flash, and seal the new penetration to ensure it doesn’t compromise the roof’s warranty.
