"Kamco Restoration says to watch these trouble spots: * Areas where water pools or backs up * Openings around skylights * Vent pipes and collars * AC unit connections * Corners where walls meet * Drainage areas and gutters * Spots where snow piles up. Winter damage follows clear patterns. First comes ice damming along edges, where melting and refreezing snow creates barriers."
"These force water under shingles and flashing. Next, freeze-thaw cycles work on small cracks, slowly widening them. By late winter, trapped moisture can rot wooden supports and seep into walls. Even tiny gaps around vents can let in enough snow to cause ceiling stains by spring."
"A word of warning about silicone coatings: While they might seem like a cheap fix, they often backfire badly. Many owners who try silicone coatings end up needing a complete roof replacement - making the "cheap" fix much more expensive in the long run. For owners weighing upkeep versus replacement, here's a key fact: A well-kept flat roof usually lasts 20 years, depending on weather and regular care. But skipping maintenance can cut this time short."
Brownstone roofs present unique vulnerabilities around parapet walls, vents, skylights, gutters, and areas where water pools or snow accumulates. Key trouble spots include openings around skylights, vent collars, AC connections, wall corners, drainage areas, and gutters. Winter damage typically begins with ice damming along edges, then melt-refreeze cycles force water under shingles and flashing; repeated freeze-thaw widens cracks and trapped moisture can rot supports and penetrate walls. Routine inspections every three to five years and pre-winter maintenance can extend a flat roof’s life to 15–20 years. Silicone coatings may appear cheap but often lead to costly replacements.
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