Replacing a roof can be costly and time consuming, so many people tend to ignore issues when they come up in hopes to delay having to resolve them. Let’s face it, as a business owner, you have a lot going on every single day.

However, your roof not only protects your business from the outside, but it also helps to keep everyone inside safe. A damaged roof increases the chances of damage to property and employees.

Considering some of the consequences to neglecting a roof replacement, let’s look at some of the signs to look out for so you know the perfect time to get a new commercial roof.

Leaks

Leaks are a common roof damage occurrence for both residential and commercial roofs. However, they are not always noticeable in commercial buildings because the undersides of their roofs can be difficult to see. Leaks also do not always have to be dripping or dumping water into a building…others cause water spots or mold along the ceiling.

In this case, you may be able to identify a leak before it begins to physically drip down, like a musty smell. If you begin to notice a musty or damp smell, it is a surefire sign to get your roof checked out for water damage.

Tip: If your building has an attic, periodically check this space for any signs of leakage. Being the closest to the roof, your attic will most likely be the first to experience damage if there is one.

Membrane Damage

One of the most common roof styles for commercial buildings is a flat roof. Flat roofs are made from any of various types of roofing membrane that when damage occurs, can cause all sorts of issues. Just like a house with shingles, you should inspect your roof at the same frequency throughout the year.

When checking your roof, look out for bald spots or the membrane beginning to lift. These are both signs that your roof is no longer properly sealed and needs to be assessed immediately. Open laps can also occur, which are when adhesive in the membrane begins to age and become less efficient in holding everything together. If your roof is newer and you see a sign of this, it most likely means your roof was not installed correctly.

Bubbling & Blistering

Certain roofing systems can be prone to bubbling and blistering along the surface. These symptoms appear when moisture gets trapped under the roofing material and has nowhere to go. When this happens, water will travel in and through your roof, causing damage. Much like open laps, bubbling and blistering can occur in new roofs if they have not been installed correctly.

Sagging Areas

If you have a commercial flat roof, a sagging area is a telltale sign of damage. Sagging can occur on roofs when new ones are installed on top of old ones, or, when too much moisture is present. This is a pretty noticeable sign of damage, especially if your roof is meant to be flat and your structure is no longer stable. Neglecting this issue could lead to a roof collapse, putting yourself and others at risk. A sagging flat roof is a severe problem that should not be ignored.

Aging

Make sure you know the age of your commercial roof. The general lifespan of one is 25 years and any time that passes after that puts you at risk for increased damage. If you are aware of its age and any maintenance records of it, this can be helpful in determining if a roof replacement is right for you. If your roof is toward the older end of its age, be more attentive to it during rainy/stormy weather to ensure it will be able to hold up during the winter months. If small damages begin to occur, it might be time for a replacement.

Although not any one of these signs may alone necessitate a complete roof replacement, the best way to find out is to get your roof assessed. Here at Duerson, we want to make sure that not only are you satisfied with our service and product, but that we keep you and your employees safe as well. Putting off a roof repair could also lead to more damage than getting a roof replaced in the first place, therefore costing you more in the long run.

If you have any questions or concerns about your commercial roofing and how or when to replace it, contact us today!