Commercial flat roofs can be a tricky to maintain when it comes to knowing whether it needs repairs or entirely replaced. Sometimes, there isn’t an easy answer. It’s no surprise to anybody that a new flat roof installation is an investment that will be paid back with over time. So, what should you look for when considering whether your commercial flat roof needs repair or replacement?
When To Repair A Flat Roof
If you’ve noticed a leak in your roof or signs of aging around specific parts of your flat roof, it doesn’t necessarily mean it needs to be replaced. Here are some signs that you’ll only need to consider a flat roof repair.
Roof Damage In Localized Areas
If you have punctures or damage to your roof in small areas throughout the surface, it’s most likely not worth replacing the entire flat roof. Sometimes, if you know what you are doing, it’s worth it to DIY a job and patch it up yourself. However, Duerson’s certified and trained roofers are more than willing to help you with repair job of any size.
Material Shrinkage
A common problem for flat roofs that are made up from EPDM is that the material shrinks over time. As the harsh highs and lows of temperature swings in the Midwest cause the rubbery material to expand and shrink around the edges over time. Thankfully, this can be repaired with some maintenance service from a trained technician.
Torching Bitumen Roofs
Roofs that are made of bitumen and have received damage or wear and tear are not easy to fix. This will take a professional from The Duerson Corporation to do a torching repair of your flat roof. Doing this yourself is highly dangerous and can ultimately damage your roof even more.
When To Replace A Flat Roof
Unfortunately, roofs can reach a point where repairs are not be worth it. Here is what to look for when it is time for a commercial roof replacement.
Improper Roof Installation
Hiring a reliable contractor to do a roofing project can be half the battle of getting a roof put on a building in the first place. Sometimes this can lead to an improper roof installation in the first place, which can lead to constant leaks and need for multiple repairs. It’s better to entirely scratch a roof and start from the top in this scenario, otherwise you will be paying more in repairs over the years.
Damage Beyond Repair
Sometimes natural disasters, fires, and other outside forces can damage roofs to a point where it would cost more to try and upkeep than it would be to entirely re-roof it. It’s also important to remember that all items deteriorate over time, and at some point your roof will need to be entirely replaced. Depending on the type of commercial roofing material on your building, it can range anywhere from 10-25 years in life.
Midwest Commercial Flat Roofing You Can Trust
If you are still wondering whether a repair or replacement is the better option, get in contact with us and ask for a free roof analysis! We provide honest feedback and fair quotes for any work we might have to do. If you are interested in a flat roof replacement, learn more about the Duro-Last products that we carry to maximize the potential of your commercial building. We look forward to working with you!