Just like residential roofing, commercial roofing is susceptible to experiencing a number of issues over time. Many of these roofing issues can become quite expensive depending on the severity, and how much of the commercial roof is affected. As the owner of a commercial building, you want to keep every aspect of your property in optimal shape for as long as possible by avoiding a variety of issues. Luckily, many of the problems and complications associated with commercial roofing systems are preventable, or at the very least, easy to catch before it turns into a larger issue and costs more money, time, and hassle to repair.
Common Causes of Commercial Roofing Issues
Roofing problems can be caused by a number of factors such as:
- Exposure to harsh weather elements like heat, sun, rain, and wind.
- Low-quality roofing materials that lead to warping or shrinkage
- Faulty installation by faulty contractors or companies.
- Insufficient roof maintenance.
- Improper repairs using the wrong material.
The Most Common Commercial Roofing Problems
At S & S Roofing, we have over three decades of experience in the roofing industry, so as you can imagine we have seen our fair share of commercial roofing issues. Understanding what is happening with your commercial roof and how it needs to be fixed can ensure that you don’t pay more than necessary when it comes time for repairs. To help out, we put together some of the most common issues you may encounter that may require service from a commercial roofing contractor.
Commercial Roof Leaks
Commercial roofing can develop leaks due to various causes. That said, it is important to have a roof that is designed with water drainage in mind. The professional roofing contractor that installs your roof will figure where and how water will drain from the roof. Without a drainage system in place, The water that falls on the roof during a rainstorm will have no place to go. When water sits on a roof for an extended period of time, it will likely begin to seep through the roofing membrane and cause leaking inside the building.
Additionally, leaks are often due to old age. As roofing begins to reach the end of its lifespan, the materials may begin to deteriorate, causing leaks to form. Typically, commercial roofs will last up to, at the very least, 20 years — as long as it is properly maintained and cared for.
If your commercial roofing system has a leak, you likely will notice puddles of water forming inside the build or discoloration in the ceiling. Also, the smelling of a mold is a sign of a potential leak, as leaks often lead to mold growth.
If your facility has a roof leak, our professional roofing contractors can help! Contact us for a free estimate!
Punctures and Penetrations
The addition of new equipment and structures on a commercial roof will compromise its performance unless the proper precautions are taken. Additionally, foot traffic, as well as weather and erosion can cause punctures. These damages can lead to much larger issues, such as leaks. The best way to prevent problems from happening is to identify these holes and punctures with a professional commercial roofing inspection. Catching these minor issues early on will save you more time, money, and hassle than it would than ignoring the issues until more damage occurs.
Ponding Water
As mentioned earlier, without proper drainage, water is likely to being ponding. Facility owners with commercial flat roofs deal with this problem. In addition to improper drainage, standing water can be caused by clogged or blocked drains, but the most common cause is to poor design or installation. This is an issue that requires an urgent solution, as ponding water can get heavy, gradually leading to a lot of structural damage or even causing the roof to collapse. For this reason, it is recommended that you work with an experienced commercial roofing contractor to ensure there is an effective drainage system set in place so water never begins to pool on your roof again!
When it comes to the safety and life of your commercial facility’s roofing, being proactive is the best method. Proper installation by a certified, professional commercial roofing contractor, as well as regular maintenance and inspections, will better ensure that your roof is structurally sound, safe from the natural elements and that minor problems are identified quickly and repaired before the damages become serious.
If you are experiencing any of the above roofing problems, the team at S & S Roofing can help! We have the experience, knowledge, and materials to fix these issues quickly and ensure your roofing system is in optimal condition. To schedule a roofing inspection or to receive a hassle-free estimate, contact us! Be sure you stay tuned for our next blog, as we will review some additional common commercial roofing issues!