A good quality roof is vital for all buildings. This makes it crucial that the building’s roof is of supreme quality so as not to give room to accidents, and the quality should be such as to safeguard your investment. A deteriorating roof can wreak havoc with damages that can cost you a fortune, disrupt your normal operations, or create unsafe conditions. However, determining when you need a commercial roof replacement can be challenging.
To make your task easier to define when it is best that you have a commercial roof replacement, we’ve published a thorough guide of all the signs you need to be aware of. Knowing when you need the services of local commercial roofers can save your building from more serious problems and extend its life.
Signs You Need a Commercial Roof Replacement
Age of the Roof
The first and, perhaps, the most confronting sign that you need a commercial roof replacement is the age of its roof. 99% of all commercial roofing construction has an expected durability of between 20 and 40 years, depending on the materials used. For instance, constructed roofs such as Built-Up Roofing (BUR), modified bitumen one or two-ply rubber such as Ethylene Propylene Diene Monomer (EPDM), Thermoplastic Olefin (TPO), or Polyvinyl Chloride (PVC), typically have a lifespan of between 20-30 years. Metal roofing systems, however, have a life span of between 40 and 50 years or even more.
In case a business is in that category where the roof of the commercial building is either near the average life expectancy or has already gone over it, it’s high time to consult a professional commercial roofing inspector. The roof may look good from the outside, but there can be problems brewing underneath that may cause further trouble at a later date.
Why It Matters: As your roof ages (and it inevitably will), its materials start to deteriorate; this deterioration compromises its ability to protect your building from adverse weather, leaks, and potentially severe structural damage.
Pro Tip: Contact a commercial roofer near you for an inspection of your old roof to decide whether you require a repair or a whole new roof installation.
Frequent Leaks and Repairs
Another sign that that could suggest it is time for a commercial roof replacement is if your roof has continual leakage or has been repaired so often that another repair is not worth the cost. Leaks in a business property can be especially detrimental, as they can result in ruined inventory, damaged equipment, or even a dangerous working environment. Although the solitary cracks and small separations are easily repairable, multiple leaks at various spots indicate that the complete roofing system might be a problem.
Why It Matters: Although minor, isolated leaks can frequently be addressed, multiple leaks or constant repairs imply that the roof is weak and cannot support or handle the pressure experienced again and again. This situation demands attention, and ignoring it could lead to more severe consequences.
Pro Tip: If you often call your local commercial roofing contractor to fix repairs, then maybe it is high time to change the roof and not repair it again and again.
Visible Damage to Roofing Materials
The state of the roofing material is an obvious indication that a commercial roof replacement is needed. Different types of commercial roofs show wear and tear in various ways:
Built-up Roofs (BUR): Search for blisters, cracks, or places where the gravel has worn away, revealing the membrane beneath.
Single-Ply Membranes (TPO, EPDM, and PVC): Their surfaces should be inspected for holes, rips, or split seams.
Metal Roofs: Look for signs of rust, corrosion, or any panel that appears loose or warped.
Visible damage to these materials frequently indicates that the roof has deteriorated beyond the point of repair. Small areas of damage can often be patched; however, widespread wear usually signifies that the roof is approaching the end of its functional life.
Why It Matters: Worn-out roofing materials cannot shield your building from rain, snow, wind, and other harsh conditions; thus, it will develop pockets that lead to the formation of leaks that, in turn, result in water damage and even building structural issues.
Pro Tip: Contact local commercial roofing inspectors to arrange a visit in order to evaluate the veracity of observations of visible signs or their impact on the overall structural soundness of the roof.
Rising Energy Costs
Perhaps you observe that energy bills in your building have gradually risen – this could be as a result of your roof. Most commercial roofs are designed to regulate the temperature of a building by providing insulation and reflecting sunlight. However, the state of the roofing material determines the energy efficiency; if it is old or damaged, the efficiency reduces. An improperly insulated roof permits hot air to rise during winter and, consequently, makes it difficult to cool the building during summer.
Why It Matters: A failing roof may lead to a higher amount of money for the heating and cooling system, which results in decreased energy and operational costs.
Pro Tip: If you have been noticing that your energy bills are climbing continually due to your HVAC system, it is high time you contact a local “commercial roofer near me” to determine if you need to replace your roof or get better insulation.
Water Pooling on Flat Roofs
Flat roofs are known for the problem of water stagnation after rainy weather. Though such pooling, to an expected extent, is quite normal, the pooling of water for longer times can easily compromise the structure of a building. If there is any pooled water, then this is a sign that there may be a severe drainage problem or the roof has started sagging because the materials used will have weakened and thus will be prone to developing leaks.
Although they obviously present an unsightly problem for your flat roof, if the ponding or standing water is recurrent, this is an indication that the roofing has been damaged and might require replacement.
Why It Matters: Water accumulation on a flat roof leads to the possibility of water leaks and consequent structural failure, requiring expensive repair or complete roof failure.
Pro Tip: Consult with commercial roofing inspectors to find out how severe the pooling is so as to decide whether to replace the existing roof or install a better drainage system.
Mold, Mildew, or Rot
Mold, mildew, or rot on your roof or inside your building can be a clear sign of water leakages, usually resulting from a bad roof. The first signs of these will often show you that water is penetrating your building through compromised roofing material. Mold and water damage can cause wood rot in your roofing system, eventually leading to a compromised roof deck.
Why It Matters: Mold and mildew present health risks to the inhabitants and workers, and rot can lead to critical structural loss for your building.
Pro Tip: If you do see mold or even mold or mildew inside your building, call a ‘commercial roofer near me’ to check your roof for the presence of water leakage quickly.
Sagging or Uneven Roof Surface
A drooping or uneven roof surface is a clear sign that your roof needs a replacement. Sagging normally means the roof deck has become compromised. This is usually caused by moisture damage, inadequate support, and excessive weight due to the accumulation of snow or other debris. There is nothing more dangerous for a building than a roof that is sagging because it can collapse if not addressed promptly.
Why It Matters: If a roof is sinking or sagging, it is hazardous and indicates severe issues that could necessitate an emergency commercial roof replacement.
Pro Tip: If you see any depressions, crests, or troughs on your roof, it is high time you contact local commercial roofers for inspection.
Granule Loss on Roofing Materials
If your commercial roof is made of asphalt shingles or similar material, granule loss is also an obvious sign of a roof that may be due for replacement. Granules serve to prevent damage by the ultraviolet rays of the sun and also offer some degree of fire resistance. Over a period of time, the constant exposure to weather conditions will lead to granules wearing out, thus exposing the shingles and reducing their durability. If you observe some parts of your shingles are bare or find granules collected in your gutters, it’s time to talk about commercial roof replacement.
Why It Matters: The diminishing of granules (which act as a protective layer) significantly impairs the roof’s capacity to shield your structure from harmful UV rays and moisture; this ultimately results in premature deterioration.
Pro Tip: It is essential to regularly (and diligently) monitor for granule loss, particularly following periods of severe weather. If you observe significant wear, however, it is advisable to reach out to a local “commercial roofer near me” for assistance.
Flashing Damage
Flashing is the metal that binds the edges of your roof to a chimney, vent, and any other projection. The main purpose of flashing is to stop water from penetrating the building structure. Problems with flashing are often caused by its damage or improper installation, which may result in leakage and subsequent water damage in critical areas. If the flashing is cracked, bent, or missing, then there could be water penetrating right into the structure.
Why It Matters: If the installed flashing is compromised, it will create an opening through which water gains access to your roof and can leak, cause the formation of mold, and, in serious cases, compromise the structure of the building.
Pro Tip: Contact commercial roofing inspectors and set a time for them to check your flashing and tell you the state it is in and if it requires repair or replacement.
Roof Deck Damage
The roof deck is a substructure or a part of the construction that is below the roofing materials. Any deformity, such as a softened, warped, or buckled roof deck, means that it will soon develop some problems like sagginess, leaking, or even collapse. Problems with the roof deck can result from moisture infiltration that is likely to occur once the roofing materials are worn out or damaged.
Why It Matters: A Saggy roof deck reduces the integrity of your roof, hence raising the probability of leakage and possible collapses.
Pro Tip: If you feel that there is an issue in your roof deck, it would be best to talk to commercial roofing inspectors to find out if a replacement is needed.
When to Call Commercial Roofers
If you notice any of the signs mentioned above, then you should call for a professional commercial roofer near your premises to conduct an inspection. An experienced contractor is in a good position to determine the state of your roof and advise you on the best course of action, whether repair or replacement. While looking for local commercial roofers, ensure that you choose a company that has a license to work, is well-insured, and has experience in doing commercial roofing.
Choosing the Right Commercial Roofing Inspectors
While thinking about a commercial roof replacement, one has to engage the right commercial roofing inspectors in a bid to get an actual picture of the state of the roof. Look for inspectors who offer:
- Systematic evaluation of the whole structural covering
- Detailed reports with recommendations for repairs or replacement
- Knowledge about a variety of commercial roofing materials and systems
- Transparency of prices and estimates
A competent roof inspection can help you evade unnecessary expenses and ensure that you are making an informed choice regarding your roof replacement.
Conclusion: Be Proactive with Your Commercial Roof Replacement
The roof is a crucial aspect of any commercial structure; it, therefore, needs to be in good shape at all times. With proper attention to the signs that may indicate the need for a new roof, you can help prevent unexpected roof repairs, loss of business time, and interruptions. If you think your roof is coming close to the end of its life cycle or if you’ve observed any of the signs mentioned in this article, get in touch with commercial roofing contractors in your area for a roof inspection and a bid.
Need a Commercial Roof Replacement? Call River City Roofing Today!
At River City Roofing, we specialize in commercial roof replacement, and we offer inspection services to enable us to understand the best way to handle your property. We are experienced and licensed and are dedicated to delivering exceptional service. Contact us today to schedule a free roofing inspection and receive a tailored quote for your commercial roofing needs.