Flat roofs are not immune to noise problems, especially if they are not well-built or well-maintained.
While no roof is sound-proof, there are certain repairs and replacements that can be done to reduce the sound of rain or hail, and the banging noises that many unfortunate home-owners do experience from time to time.
The most common noise issues with flat roofs are banging, loud rain, snapping/popping sounds, heat-related cracking, and creaking.
Noise Problem #1: Banging
Banging sounds generally occur when a part of the roof has not been properly fixed in place; or when it has come loose. The sound can be present both in mild weather and heavy winds.
It can be repaired simply following an inspection to find the loose piece or pieces, and replacing them or fastening them in place more securely. Sometimes, even a seemingly well-fastened piece of sheet metal is just loose enough to bend with heat, cold and wind.
Noise Problem #2: Loud Rain
Let’s face it – the rain is never going away; and if it does, we’re in trouble! That said, it shouldn’t be making an absolute ruckus on your roof, either. While you’re always going to be able to hear a heavy rain somewhat, the bulk of the noise can be muted with the right kind of building materials.
Extra insulation can be a big help with this problem, but there are other ways to address it. Some builders prefer to install shade cloth over the roof so that the force of the rain is dissipated before it hits the roof itself. Others suggest installing solar panels, which dampen the sound and collect energy on better days.
Noise Problem #3: Snapping and Popping
Snapping, popping sounds are most common in buildings where the flat roof has been installed over an older roof. Why? The older roof was already damaged and cracked, and now it is bearing the weight of the new roof.
Materials, whether new or old, shift regularly with changes in temperature and air pressure. If these movements occur on top of a foundation that is cracked, the result is a whole host of noises that can be more frightening than irritating. Generally speaking, that old roof needs to be ripped up to prevent further noise.
Noise Problem #4: Heat-Related Cracking
As discussed above, roofs will shift with changes in temperature. This can be particularly obvious when the sun comes up or when the air conditioning goes on – either way, you’ll hear cracking in the roof.
Depending on the material of the flat roof, you can either have expansion joints installed, use reflective white paint, or have vents installed to better dissipate the heat or cold. You should also have the roof inspected for any cracks or joints under pressure.
Noise Problem #5: Creaking
Creaking sounds are another common problem, both in flat and peaked roofs. The reasons for creaking are usually the same as those of heat or cold-related cracking. Where the roof’s materials and joints need space to expand and contract, the builder has provided none. This is another case in which the addition of joint expansions can make a big difference, and be much more cost-effective than tearing the roof down and starting again. Cracks from water damage or ice are another reason for creaking, and these can be repaired on a case by case basis.
The first step to fixing a noisy flat roof is a professional inspection. Once the reasons for the creaking, cracking, popping and other sounds has been pinpointed, repairs can be made and you can enjoy your space a lot more!
Image: seier+seier