Being proactive about maintaining your commercial roof can help you maximize the lifespan of your system and reduce common problems.
But even the best maintenance doesn’t make a roof last forever, and unforeseen events like severe storms can cause significant damage to a roof that would warrant a replacement.
So what are the signs that you may need a new roof for your business?
Spotting these four warning signs early can help you address roofing concerns promptly so you can reduce further damage to your property and start the process for a new roof as soon as possible.
Recognizing the Warning Signs of a Failing Commercial Roof
Your commercial roof is an essential part of your business, and as such, regular inspections are vital to maintaining its integrity and identifying any potential issues early on.
Recognizing the warning signs of a failing roof starts with an inspection. Unless you are a professional commercial roofer, attempting to inspect your roof yourself isn’t a good idea. Call in a professional to have them safely and efficiently check the damage.
Are you seeing these four signs, or is your commercial roofer seeing them? If so, it may be time for a new roof.
4 Warning Signs Your Business Needs a New Roof
Spotting the signs that your business needs a new roof is crucial for maintaining efficiency and making smart repair or replacement decisions. Here are four warning signs to look out for:
1. Water Damage or Leaks
Water damage on your roof, roof decking, or inside your property could mean your commercial roofing system is compromised.
So what does water damage look like?
- Leaks. Signs of a potential roof leak include tears or punctures in a single-ply membrane, holes or bald spots on asphalt-based roofs, and water stains on interior ceilings or walls. You may also see an active leak in your building.
- Moss or vegetation growth. These green invaders thrive in damp, shaded environments and may indicate trapped moisture beneath your roofing materials. The damage from moss growth isn’t just superficial–it can cause additional roofing damage, including letting water underneath your commercial roof.
- Discolored decking. Rotten or discolored roof decking usually points towards water damage resulting from leaks in the underlying roof membrane, but it can also indicate a problem with your roof ventilation system.
2. Frequent or Severe Roofing Damage
Roofs become more vulnerable to harm with age. Taking care of your roof throughout its life is essential, but all roofing materials wear eventually. After all, they are doing their job of protecting your business from rain, hail, snow, and debris!
As your roof’s expected lifespan nears its end, you may begin to notice an increasing amount of damage during inspections. If you have a single-ply membrane, you may see the seams wearing, punctures or tears, or deep, pooling water that doesn’t go away after heavy rain.
In asphalt-based systems, such as built-up or modified bitumen roofing, you may notice cracks, blistering, damaged flashing, or loose fasteners.
When damage occurs more frequently or with increasing severity, replacing your roof may be necessary.
3. A Spike in Energy Bills
If you’ve noticed an unexplained increase in energy bills, it could be due to an inefficient commercial roof system. This could mean your commercial roof isn’t performing optimally.
Insulation is an important part of any roofing system, especially commercial and industrial roofs, because it helps your property maintain energy efficiency. However, over time, insulation materials can degrade, causing heat to escape during the winter and cool air during the summer.
As a result, your HVAC system may have to work harder to maintain comfortable indoor conditions, resulting in higher energy bills and an increased carbon footprint. In addition, compromised insulation can also accelerate roof aging.
Compromised insulation may be able to be repaired. However, it can also be a sign that your roofing system is approaching the end of its life.
4. A Sagging or Uneven Roof
If you notice your roof is sagging or uneven, structural problems may be to blame. This could be due to water damage, rot, or weakened supports. A sagging roof poses a significant safety risk and should be addressed immediately.
A sagging roof or uneven roof line could result from improper installation techniques during initial construction, internal structural damages within the building itself, or excessive weight on top of your roof membrane.
Regardless of the cause, a sagging roof should be evaluated by a professional roofer as soon as possible, and a full system replacement may be in order.
Does Your Business Need a New Roof?
Understanding the warning signs of a failing commercial roof is crucial for any business owner. By knowing these signs and scheduling regular inspections, you can make informed decisions about your roof.
At CDS Roofing, we’re committed to helping businesses maintain their roofing systems. Our team offers high-quality replacements and repairs tailored to suit your specific needs.
Don’t let roofing problems disrupt your operations. If you notice or suspect any of these signs, contact our professional commercial roofers today to schedule a consultation.
