Florida Home Inspector Practice Test

When should a built-up roof receive flood coating?

1. When the roof is new

2. When it is nearing the end of its lifespan

3. When the tar paper is showing

4. When the gutters are clogged

The correct answer is: When the tar paper is showing

A built-up roof should receive flood coating when the tar paper is showing. Flood coating is a process that involves adding a protective layer of asphalt or other materials over the existing roofing surface to extend its life and improve its waterproofing qualities. When the tar paper becomes visible, it indicates that the surface is eroding, which undermines the roof's overall integrity and can lead to leaks or water damage. Applying flood coating at this stage helps protect the underlying materials, enhances durability, and prevents further degradation. While a new roof would not typically require flood coating, it can also be applied as necessary based on the condition of the roofing material rather than strictly adhering to a timeline. Waiting until the roof is nearing the end of its lifespan may be too late to effectively benefit from the flood coating, as significant damage could already be present. Clogged gutters do not directly relate to the need for flood coating, although they can lead to pooling water issues that may affect roof performance over time. Thus, identifying visible wear, such as showing tar paper, is crucial for timely maintenance of a built-up roof.