Roof problems can be detrimental to your commercial property for numerous reasons. For one, extensive damage can be costly to repair. You should swiftly and effectively deal with wear, tear and other issues related to weather exposure and deterioration.
This article will explore the commercial roofing issues we see, the importance of roofing inspections and why regular maintenance is crucial for keeping your roof intact for longer.
Commercial Roofing Issues
Businesses, schools, government organizations and retailers have one thing in common — extensive roof coverage. With more area to cover, you will likely experience issues at some point. You may ignore your roof until the damage becomes unmistakable, so a proactive approach is critical.
The following roofing issues are sometimes preventable if identified early.
Leaks and Water Damage
Commercial roofs are susceptible to leaks and water damage. Leak causes vary, ranging from flashing cracks to broken or missing shingles. Water damage can be severe, depending on the leak’s location. If undetected, it can spread and lead to more extensive challenges like mold, mildew, constant dripping, water stains and black marks that are hard to remove and pose potential health risks.
Improper Installation
Improper installation is another potentially dangerous source of roofing issues, especially when it compromises the structural integrity. Poor workmanship and cheap materials result in substandard installation. Commercial property owners cannot afford to compromise on costs and quality. Besides the risks associated with shoddy installation, you may face fines for violating building codes and regulations.
The initial design must include proper ventilation and drainage, sufficient insulation and other aspects that reinforce the roof’s structure. A reputable, professional roofing contractor should always handle commercial roof installations. They must adhere to stringent building codes to complete the project, reducing risks and giving you peace of mind.
Roofing Material Deterioration
High-quality roofing materials are long-lasting, but everything deteriorates with age. Shingles and tiles come in different materials like asphalt and metal, all of which are prone to damage. Some deterioration causes include the following.
- Cracks: Materials warp and crack with constant sun exposure. Flashing is most vulnerable to cracking because of its construction.
- Corrosion: Steel and aluminum may corrode due to changing weather conditions. In areas with large overhanging trees, the leaves may scrape granules from shingles to expose them.
- Blistering: Retained moisture causes shingles to expand and contract with heat and cold.
- Breakage: Shingles tend to break, crack and fall off with extreme weather.
- Shrinkage: Synthetic rubber is more likely to experience weather-related shrinkage.
Other environmental factors like UV ray damage, chemical contaminants and persistent temperature fluctuations may cause you to need roof repairs or replacement. Besides this, materials naturally age as they withstand years of exposure. Choosing impact- and wind-resistant materials may help mitigate the damage, especially if professionally installed.
Poor Drainage System
A poor drainage system can cause substantial roofing issues if left unattended. The gutters are responsible for directing water away from the building, and if they can’t perform this function, you’ll end up with backed-up, overflowing water. Stagnant water can seep into the roof, causing leaks that later form mold and watermarks.
Clogged gutters are the leading cause of overflow. Leaves, branches and other debris accumulate and gather in the gutters, making it hard for water to pass through.
Gutters require regular inspection to avoid blockage. Installing gutter screens or guards will prevent larger debris from passing through, ensuring your gutters stay clean and functional for longer.
Storm and Hail Damage
Adverse weather conditions like hail and snowstorms may damage or destroy roofing shingles, tiles and underlayment. Once the melted snow and ice penetrate the underlayment and reach the deck, water stains and pools may appear. Water droplets along the walls will indicate the presence of a leak, which requires immediate inspection.
Snow and ice that melt and refreeze pose a significant threat to a roof because they can force through shingles, breaking them and allowing more ice to enter crevices. A roof may eventually sag under the pressure of extensive water damage. You can prevent this issue if the structure is stable and reinforced with top-quality materials installed by experienced roofing contractors.
The Importance of Regular Roofing Inspections and Maintenance
Roofing inspections are a vital part of maintenance. Routine check-ups assess the roof’s current condition and determine what measures to take if repairs are necessary.
- Leak investigation: If you suspect a leak after heavy rainfall or visible water damage, a roofing contractor can check your roof and advise you of their findings.
- Storm damage impact: Once a storm passes, it’s beneficial to have your roof inspected for severe damage. They’ll look for signs of broken or missing shingles that need replacing.
- Wear and tear inspection: With regular inspections, you can determine the extent of aging and the effects of wear and tear. A roofing technician can give you a cost estimate for any essential repairs.
- Insurance purposes: If you have roof damage covered by your insurance policy, a roofing professional can assess it and provide an accurate valuation for you to submit your claim.
Regular roofing maintenance is equally valuable. Inspection determines the maintenance or restoration requirements, if necessary. Consider these advantages.
- Save time and money: Many roof issues are invisible to the untrained eye. Preventive maintenance will identify any potential problems and address them before they worsen, saving you time and money in the long run.
- Extend your roof’s life span: Maintaining your roof keeps it in top shape. You’ll need less frequent repairs or replacements unless it sustains severe damage.
Schedule Your Commercial Roof Maintenance With David Maines & Associates, Inc.
Protecting your commercial property is a priority. Routine roof maintenance and inspections will keep it in prime condition and provide you with an excellent return over time. The benefits outweigh any doubts you may have about keeping your roof in good condition and protecting your assets.
David Maines is an established, experienced roofing company that puts our clients’ needs first. Our service is outstanding, and our workmanship is unparalleled. Choosing us for your regular commercial roof maintenance will be your next best investment.
Call us at 717-210-4707 to schedule a free inspection and quote or submit an online contact form, and we’ll call you back right away.
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