As a business owner or property manager, the condition of your commercial roof is crucial to the safety, comfort, and longevity of your building. A damaged roof can lead to serious issues, including water leaks, structural damage, and costly repairs. Identifying the signs your commercial roof needs repair early is key to preventing larger problems down the road. In this blog, we’ll outline some of the most common signs your commercial roof needs repair.
1. Visible Leaks or Water Stains
Water leaks are one of the most obvious signs your commercial roof needs repair. Even minor leaks can cause extensive damage if left untreated.- Signs of leaks: Look for damp spots on ceilings or walls. Water stains on the interior of your building could indicate a roof leak.
- What it means: Leaks usually point to damage in the roofing material or the seal around vents, chimneys, or skylights. If not fixed promptly, leaks can lead to mold growth, weakened structural integrity, and electrical hazards.
2. Pooling Water
Pooling water on flat commercial roofs is another one of the signs your commercial roof needs repair. Commercial flat roofs are designed to shed water, but if they are not draining properly, standing water can cause significant damage.- What to look for: After a rainstorm, check for puddles of water on your roof. If the water does not drain within 48 hours, it could be a sign of a blocked drainage system or a roof slope issue.
- What it means: Stagnant water can penetrate the roof membrane and lead to cracks, leaks, and deterioration. Over time, the weight of the pooled water can cause the roof structure to weaken, leading to a potential collapse.
3. Cracks or Holes in the Roof
If you notice any visible cracks or holes in your commercial roof, don’t wait to call for repair. These are critical signs your commercial roof needs repair, as even small cracks can grow into larger issues if not addressed quickly.- What to look for: Walk around the perimeter of your roof and look for visible cracks or holes. Pay particular attention to areas where the roofing material is stressed or where seams come together.
- What it means: Cracks allow water to seep beneath the roofing material, causing the roof to deteriorate over time. Holes may also compromise the roof’s ability to hold up under extreme weather conditions, such as high winds or heavy snow.
4. Sagging Roof Deck
A sagging roof deck is one of the most serious signs your commercial roof needs repair. This type of damage can affect the structural integrity of the entire building.- What to look for: Inspect your roof for any visible sagging or uneven areas. Look for parts of the roof that appear to dip or bow inwards, especially near the center or edges.
- What it means: A sagging roof could be caused by water damage or weakened structural components. If left unaddressed, this issue could lead to total roof failure, posing a significant safety hazard to anyone in the building.
5. Blistering or Bubbling
Blisters and bubbles on the surface of your commercial roof are major signs your commercial roof needs repair, as they indicate moisture buildup underneath the roofing material.- What to look for: Inspect the roof for any areas where the surface material appears to be lifting or bubbling. These can often be seen on flat roofs or roofs with a rubber membrane.
- What it means: Blistering or bubbling happens when moisture becomes trapped beneath the roof membrane. Over time, this trapped moisture can cause the roofing material to deteriorate, resulting in leaks and further damage.
6. Debris Accumulation
Debris such as leaves, twigs, and branches can accumulate on your commercial roof and create problems if not cleared regularly.- What to look for: Check the roof for an accumulation of debris, especially around drains and gutters. Ensure that all debris is cleared away so that water can flow freely off the roof.
- What it means: Debris can block drainage systems, trap moisture, and even cause the roof material to deteriorate over time. Left unchecked, debris can contribute to leaks and other structural damage.
7. Increased Energy Bills
A sudden increase in energy costs could be one of the signs your commercial roof needs repair, indicating that your roof is no longer providing proper insulation.- What to look for: Compare your current energy bills with those from previous months or years. If you notice a significant increase, it may be time to inspect your roof.
- What it means: A damaged roof can allow air to escape or enter the building, making it harder to maintain a consistent temperature. This forces your heating and cooling systems to work harder, resulting in higher energy bills.
8. Old Age of the Roof
The age of your roof is one of the most common factors to consider. Roofing systems have a limited lifespan, and older roofs are more prone to damage.- What to look for: If your roof is more than 10 years old, it may be time to schedule a professional inspection to check for any underlying issues.
- What it means: Older roofs are more susceptible to wear and tear from weather conditions, and they may require more frequent repairs. If repairs are becoming frequent, it may be time to consider replacing the roof entirely.