As a business owner, it’s easy to forget about your roof, until something major happens to remind you. Roof repair or replacement services for your commercial building can be costly. Regular inspections and maintenance can help save you a lot of money and may help you avoid major problems.
Here are eight common signs of roof damage that indicate your commercial building needs roof repair or replacement.
Roof Repair For Leakage
Obviously, if water is coming through the roof when it rains, you need to talk to a professional. They will let you know if your roof can be repaired, or if it’s best to replace it. However, sometimes, it’s not that simple. Water leaks can go unnoticed, especially in buildings where the underside of the roof is not visible. Look for secondary signs of leakage, such as moldy spots or water spots on the ceiling. If the building has an attic area, occasionally look for water damage. Remember that you can often smell mold in an attic even if you can’t see visible signs of leaks.
Blistering Appears on the Roof
When air moisture pockets form between the underlayment and the membrane, bubbles or blisters often appear. This issue needs to be addressed quickly to keep additional blistering from occurring. Catching it early on can mean the difference between a roof repair and total roof replacement.
Damaged Roof Membrane
Storms and strong winds can cause uplifting on a roof membrane. If it’s minor, commercial roof repair will prevent further damage. However, if the uplifting is 25% or more, or if you can see bald or damaged spots on the membrane, you’ll need to replace the roof.
The Roof is Getting Old
Eventually, all roofs will age, and you will need a commercial roof replacement. Once a roof reaches an advanced age, it can be a sign of upcoming trouble. Two interventions that can help delay the effects of an old roof; these include regular and frequent inspections and consistent maintenance.
Replacement Services For Shingle Damage
Some commercial roof systems incorporate the use of shingles. They are most commonly found on steep slope roofs. It’s important to inspect shingles from time to time. If you notice any of them curling, cracking, or splitting, it’s time to call a professional. If you notice moss growing, it is often a sign that water is becoming trapped inside. Patchy or bald spots are also indications of shingle damage that need immediate attention.
Flashing Showing Signs of Wear and Tear
Flashing plays an important role in a commercial roofing system. It helps secure roofing materials and protects from the elements and moisture. It provides a protective seal, and when it becomes compromised, it allows water and debris to get in. This can begin the deterioration process and lead to the need for roof repair or replacement.
Failed Downspouts
If you notice that there is no water coming from your commercial roof’s downspouts after a good rain, they may be clogged. It’s not unusual for twigs, leaves, and debris to get caught in the downspouts. If the downspouts cannot carry water away from the roof, it can cause pooling water. Over time, moisture builds up, and it can cause bubbling and other types of damage. A simple inspection can prevent long-term damage from occurring.
Damage Caused by Contractors
Some contractors need to access the roof to do their work. HVAC or other equipment repair professionals are usually careful, but accidents can happen. If you know that a contractor caused even mild damage to the roof of your business, it’s a good idea to have it inspected by a roofing professional. It may only need basic commercial roof repair to prevent larger problems from occurring.
How long has it been since you had your commercial roof inspected? Contact us to schedule your roof inspection. Taking care of your business’s roof today can save you money and prevent or delay a total roof replacement.