Almost every home and apartment block in Malta is built with a flat roof. It’s practical for water tanks, solar panels, washing lines and extra outdoor space — but a flat roof only works if it’s properly waterproofed. Unlike a pitched roof, water can’t simply run off; it sits, pools, and eventually finds a way in.
Why Flat Roofs in Malta Are High-Risk Without Waterproofing
- Standing water: flat roofs rely on falls and drainage; even small imperfections cause pooling
- Intense summer heat: Malta’s sun degrades unprotected concrete and causes cracking over time
- Winter rain: short, heavy downpours put sudden pressure on any weak points
- Rooftop use: water tanks, AC units and foot traffic all create extra wear on the roof surface
Once water penetrates a flat roof slab, it doesn’t just cause a leak — it can corrode reinforcement steel inside the concrete, leading to much more expensive structural repairs down the line.
How Roof Waterproofing Works
We typically use a liquid membrane or torch-on bituminous membrane system, applied directly onto the prepared roof slab:
- The surface is cleaned and any cracks or imperfections repaired
- A primer is applied to help the membrane bond fully
- The waterproofing membrane is applied in continuous layers, with reinforcement at joints, upstands and roof penetrations (pipes, drains, tank stands)
- A protective top layer is added where the roof will see regular foot traffic
The result is a fully sealed, seamless membrane that moves with the building and keeps water out even where the roof meets walls, pipes or parapets — usually the weakest points on any flat roof.
Signs Your Roof Needs Waterproofing
- Damp patches or staining on ceilings below the roof
- Visible cracks or bubbling on the roof surface
- Water pooling that doesn’t drain within a few hours of rain
- A roof that hasn’t been re-waterproofed in 10+ years
Why Choose Shaw Contractors for Roof Waterproofing in Malta
We waterproof roofs, terraces and roof gardens across Malta for both residential and commercial clients, using materials suited to Malta’s climate and building methods. We handle everything from surface preparation to final membrane application and testing.
For a broader look at how liquid membrane works across different areas of a property, see our complete guide to liquid membrane waterproofing in Malta.
Concerned about your roof? Contact Shaw Contractors for a free on-site assessment and quote.
