Abandoned Rooftop Curbs and Flat Roof Leaks | The Flat Roof Guys
Many commercial buildings in Northeastern Pennsylvania have undergone multiple renovations over the years. HVAC units get replaced, exhaust fans are removed, old refrigeration equipment becomes obsolete, and rooftop mechanical systems are relocated. Unfortunately, one roofing issue that often gets overlooked is what happens to the old equipment curbs left behind. At The Flat Roof Guys, we frequently encounter leaks that originate from abandoned rooftop curbs on flat rubber roofing systems.
A curb is a raised structure built above the roof surface to support mechanical equipment. These curbs are designed to be integrated into the roofing system with specialized flashing and waterproofing details. When equipment is removed, property owners sometimes choose to leave the curb in place rather than removing it completely.
While this may seem like a cost-saving decision at the time, abandoned curbs can become long-term maintenance concerns.
One common problem is aging flashing. The flashing surrounding a curb is constantly exposed to sunlight, temperature changes, snow, ice, and rain. As the years pass, these materials can deteriorate. If the curb is no longer serving a purpose, it may not receive the same level of attention during maintenance inspections, allowing small issues to develop into leaks.
Another concern involves water flow. Flat roofs are carefully designed to move water toward drains, gutters, and scuppers. Large abandoned curbs can disrupt drainage patterns and create areas where water collects. Even a durable EPDM rubber roofing system can experience accelerated wear if ponding water becomes a persistent issue.
Structural movement can also create problems. Old curbs may have been installed decades ago under different building conditions. Over time, buildings naturally expand and contract due to seasonal temperature changes. These movements can place stress on flashing connections and seams, eventually creating openings where water can enter the roofing system.
In some cases, abandoned curbs may contain deteriorating wood components hidden beneath metal coverings. Moisture intrusion can cause these materials to rot, weakening the structure and increasing the likelihood of roofing failures around the curb.
The best solution often depends on the condition of the curb and the overall roof system. Sometimes a curb can be professionally removed and the roof area properly restored. In other situations, the curb may be re-flashed and incorporated into the roofing system if removal is not practical.
At The Flat Roof Guys, we help commercial property owners throughout Wilkes-Barre, Scranton, Hazleton, Bloomsburg, and surrounding Northeastern Pennsylvania identify hidden leak risks associated with abandoned rooftop structures. During inspections, we carefully evaluate curbs, penetrations, flashing details, and drainage conditions to help prevent costly water damage.
Many building owners focus on active rooftop equipment while overlooking structures that are no longer in use. However, abandoned curbs can become some of the most troublesome leak sources on a flat roof if they are not properly maintained.
If your building has old rooftop equipment that has been removed over the years, it may be time for a professional roof inspection. Contact The Flat Roof Guys at (570) 332-1223 to evaluate your rubber roofing system and address potential problems before they lead to expensive repairs.
