Sometimes the biggest problems hide just beneath the surface. This roofing job in Nashville started as a simple deck replacement, but once we got underneath, we uncovered a major waterproofing issue that had been quietly damaging the structure for years.
The Roofing Problem
The homeowner had a floating deck built over the first floor of their home. The surface below wasn’t a true roof deck system, it was just roofing felt and roll roofing laid flat, with little to no slope to allow water to drain.
That setup might have worked temporarily, but over time, water began to pool against the walls instead of flowing away from the house. The trapped moisture found its way inside, rotting the decking, perimeter walls, and supporting beams underneath.
By the time we arrived, the damage was extensive, but fixable.
The Solution
Our team began by removing the old decking and replacing every rotted support beam to restore the structure’s strength and stability.
Next, we installed tapered insulation to create a subtle but effective slope that directs water away from the home. This step is critical, even a small slope makes a huge difference in preventing future water intrusion.
Once the surface was properly pitched, we installed a TPO (thermoplastic polyolefin) membrane, typically a commercial roofing system of a long-lasting, watertight roofing material commonly used in flat and low-slope applications. The new TPO runs up and under the siding, ensuring a completely sealed system that protects the home for years to come.
The Result
Now, the homeowner has a fully waterproof, structurally sound surface that’s ready for a new deck to be built overtop. More importantly, the area below is finally protected from water damage.
This project is a great reminder: when you’re building a deck over living space or a flat roof, waterproofing and proper slope are non-negotiable. They’re what make the Pine Knot difference between a system that lasts a few years and one that lasts decades.
