Are you a business owner concerned about commercial roofing problems that put your bottom line at risk? From pooling water to flashing coming loose, these problems can disrupt businesses of every type. Even the most robust roofing job can develop issues due to severe weather or simple wear and tear that can result in roof replacement if they aren’t handled promptly.
Being quick to identify problems on your commercial roof is a deterrent to bigger problems with your building.
Identifying Common Commercial Roofing Problems and Their Solutions
A properly installed commercial roof can last decades, but many factors can influence longevity and cause structural damage. Identifying these problems helps prevent further damage to your building, equipment, or inventory and avoid potential financial losses. Many factors are beyond our control, but knowing what to look for can help address common commercial roofing problems before they impact your business and make roof replacement necessary.
What Signs of Commercial Roofing Problems Should I Watch For?
• Shrinkage and Expansion – Metal roofing is a favorite roofing material for commercial roofs and business owners due to its durability and longevity. Despite these benefits, their reactivity to temperature changes causes shrinkage and expansion, leading to wear and tear that can impact your roof’s integrity. If you have metal roofing, keep an eye on your flashings and drip edges, these are common areas for problems from this reactivity to appear.
• Punctures – Punctures are a common roofing problem, often resulting from debris carried by storms or overhanging branches falling on or rubbing against your roof. While storms are out of your control, and tree limbs can be trimmed, walking on your roof is another common culprit for punctures that cause roof leaks. While wearing softer-soled shoes can help, it’s also important to use walkway pads when getting on your roof is necessary.
• Pooling Water – A flat roof is a common feature in a commercial building, requiring careful attention to sloping by the installer. If the roof isn’t properly sloped, pools of water will form that won’t drain off and can lead to roof leaks. These pools create opportunities for accelerated erosion of the roofing material, additional strain from the weight of the accumulated water, and more.
• Flashing Issues – Flashing is material used to address leak vulnerability in the seams between the roofing material and to direct water away from vulnerable parts of the structure. In addition to the shrinkage and expansion mentioned above, wind, rain, and debris can cause structural damage that impacts its protective ability.
Common Commercial Roofing Problems And Their Solutions
Let A Professional Handle the Maintenance – Nothing is more important to keeping commercial roofs intact and protecting your business than properly maintaining it. Engaging a commercial roofing service to perform a yearly assessment and complete any required maintenance is part of a good business plan.
Don’t Wait To Act – If you notice any signs that indicate a potential problem with your roof, get a professional to inspect it immediately. Common commercial roofing problems can develop from a minor roof leak to a major catastrophe very quickly; having a professional perform a roof inspection is a way to guarantee the safety of your business and your peace of mind.
Maintain Your Surroundings – If trees overhang your building or loose debris is on the ground around your business, your commercial roof may be in danger. Ensure that all overhanging limbs are cleared away and that walking pads are used. Surrounding debris can be picked up by high winds and cause damage to your roof.
Address Your Commercial Roofing Problems with Professionals
Whether you’ve noticed signs of problems with your roofing or want a roof inspection to identify potential risks, it’s time to call the professionals. Commercial roofing experts like MacDermott Roofing in the Detroit Metro area will ensure that your business gets the commercial roof maintenance it needs and identify ways to avoid potential problems, including roof replacement, in the future.
When you see signs of potential commercial roof problems, don’t wait; call a commercial roofing service team today!