Earlier this week, we were called out to inspect a commercial flat roof that had been dealing with ongoing leaks after several rounds of storms. The owner had already started the insurance process for a full replacement, but the roof was deteriorating fast — cracking, splitting, and showing signs of old patchwork failing. Until the claim was approved, they needed someone to step in and stop the active leaks immediately.
That’s when they called Kimber Services.
As soon as we got to the property and stepped onto the roof, we could see the problem clearly. The entire modified bitumen cap sheet was showing signs of age — heavy granular loss, large cracks throughout the surface, open seams, and old patchwork that was starting to peel apart. It didn’t take long to confirm that the system was at the end of its life.
But while the building absolutely needed a full replacement, our immediate priority was preventing further damage.
Here’s what we did to stabilize the roof:
1. Identified all active cracks and open seams
We walked the entire rooftop marking every split, crack, and failing seam. On a mod-bit roof like this, cracks can run in multiple directions, allowing water to seep underneath the cap sheet and travel across the deck — which is exactly what was causing the interior leaks.
2. Reinforced prior patchwork that had started to fail
There were several older patches that had begun to curl at the edges. We lifted loose areas, cleaned the substrate, and applied fresh modified bitumen-compatible sealant so the patches would hold until replacement.
3. Applied new temporary patches to cracked and leaking sections
We used reinforced mod-bit patching material along with high-grade sealant to cover the worst cracks and open seams. These aren’t meant to last forever, but they provide a reliable barrier against rain and moisture while the insurance process plays out.
4. Re-sealed transitions and edges
The perimeter edges and transitions showed some of the most severe wear. We re-sealed flashing edges, exposed layers, and anywhere water could enter during heavy rain.
5. Addressed areas with ponding or soft spots
Some sections had minor ponding, which only accelerates deterioration. We cleared all debris, opened drainage paths, and made sure water wasn’t sitting directly on the patched areas.
6. Documented everything for the insurance claim
Before and after every repair, we took photos and videos to show:
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Active damage
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Water entry points
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Cracks and splits
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Failing seams
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All temporary stabilization work
This gives the building owner strong documentation to support their full replacement claim.
By the time we finished, the roof was watertight and stable enough to protect the building through upcoming weather. The owner told us it was the first time in months they felt confident about the next storm.
And that’s what we strive for. Sometimes our job isn’t just replacing roofs — it’s stepping in during that crucial gap between damage and insurance approval. Temporary mod-bit patchwork may not look glamorous, but it saves buildings from additional damage and helps the insurance process move forward smoothly.
When the replacement is approved, we’ll be back to install a roof that’s built to last.
Until then, Kimber Services has this building protected.