Commercial roofs in the U.S. are almost always flat (some are low-slope or pitched). Depending on the building your commercial roof covers, it may be constructed from bitumen, EPDM, TPO, or asphalt shingles.
No matter what materials your roof is made of, maintenance and prompt repairs are a must. The problem with commercial roofs is that most people overlook maintenance until a massive issue arises.
Regular roof maintenance can prevent leaks and other problems. This will save you a lot of money in repairs or roof replacement.
You can also extend its lifespan by spotting early signs that your commercial roof needs urgent attention. By default, you will protect your business operations from unnecessary disruptions.
Below are some of the most common signs that a commercial roof needs maintenance.
One of the most obvious signs of a roof problem is water leaks or stains inside the building. You may notice brown marks on the ceilings or walls, and water stains may appear around light fixtures. Large leaks may result in wet carpets and water damage to furniture.
Even if the roof leak is small, you should get it fixed immediately. If you leave it, it can escalate to significant damage, including mold and structural issues. Sometimes, commercial building leaks are hidden behind walls, which is another reason roof maintenance is important.
The main causes of a leaking roof include the following:
- Damaged shingles, membranes, or flashings
- Clogged gutters, drains, and downspouts
- Poor roofing installation.
Leaks tend to worsen quickly, affecting the insulation, wiring, and interior finishes. Regular roof maintenance can also help prevent leaks by fixing weak points in the roof before they break.
Roofing materials are generally designed to withstand extreme weather. However, sunlight, rain, and different temperatures may cause blistering, bubbling, or cracks on the surface over time. If you notice this on your commercial roof, it may mean there is trapped moisture beneath the membrane.
It is also possible that the roof lacks adequate ventilation or has been exposed to excessive temperatures for too long.
This is another imperfection you cannot ignore. Any crack or blistering allows water to penetrate the inner layers of the roof. Leaks, water damage, and insulation deterioration will continue unabated unless the roof is fixed.
Regular inspections can prevent blisters, bubbles, and cracks from worsening. Fixing these problems will also help maintain the roof's structural integrity.
Because commercial roofs are often flat, they are at risk of ponding water. This means water pooling on top of the roof after rain or snow. Most commercial roofs are designed to shed water. However, if your roof has improper drainage, water will accumulate.
Ponding water also happens when drains are blocked or when the roof has depressions. If you leave standing water on the roof, it will weaken the materials over time. Standing water also invites algae and mold, which can become a health issue.
Your roof must be inspected and maintained regularly to identify and fix drainage issues.
Flashings are the strips of metal installed around roof edges, vents, and chimneys. These strips help prevent water from entering through joints and seams. If your roof's flashings are loose or deteriorating, they cannot provide a tight water seal. This will allow moisture to seep into the building.
High winds and storms can easily dislodge flashings but can also become damaged by normal wear and tear. Poor installation can also lead to flashings becoming loose over time.
Damaged flashings are one of the most common causes of roof leaks, which typically appear around chimneys and vents. Inspecting and maintaining flashings regularly can prevent water intrusion and save you money on replacements.
Even the strongest roofs have an expiry date. Depending on the materials your roof is made of, it will have a lifespan of up to 30 years. The climate and weather in your area can affect your roof's longevity. Regular inspections and preventative maintenance can extend the roof's lifespan.
If it becomes clear that your roof is showing its age, regular maintenance becomes even more important. Leaks, sagging, and worn materials may also signal a complete replacement when maintenance can no longer make a visible difference.
You must hire a professional roofing contractor for maintenance and repairs. When it is time to replace your roof, the contractor can also suggest materials and costs.
Commercial roofs are designed to last long but will only stay durable through regular inspections and maintenance.
You can find and fix small issues by hiring a roofing contractor to inspect your roof. You can also ensure that your roof's drainage systems work well and protect your building from mold and water damage.
Moreover, your roof is a major source of heat gain and loss. Poor insulation or roof damage can compromise your building's energy efficiency. This could result in higher energy bills.
If your building's energy costs spike without changes to your air conditioning system, it could mean your roof's insulation is damaged or deteriorated. If this is the case, the roof will allow heat to escape in cold months and enter in summer, making your HVAC system work harder.
If you experience uneven temperatures in different parts of the building, it could also mean insulation problems. Hot spots and cold drafts could indicate the roof is not providing thermal protection as it should.
When roof materials degrade, they also lose their reflective properties. This results in more heat absorption into the building, increasing the need for artificial cooling.
Maintaining your roof can help preserve insulation and reduce energy consumption. Modern, energy-efficient roofing materials and coating installed by professionals can further enhance your building's energy performance.
Your commercial roof costs a good chunk of money to install. Protect this investment by scheduling regular roof maintenance. Between maintenance appointments, look for leaks, ponding water, and damaged flashings to keep your roof strong and looking new.
If you have just purchased a building and suspect the roof needs maintenance, schedule an appointment with a roofing contractor. The sooner the issues are identified and fixed, the more you will save on costly repairs.
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