Commercial roofs protect the interior of your building and its contents from outside elements. Unfortunately, like all components of your building, they eventually wear out and need to be replaced.
Luckily, there are a few telltale signs that your commercial roof is about to fail. These include water stains, leaking water, and musty odors.
Water Leaks
The average commercial roof has a lifespan of about 25 years. The longer you go without a replacement, the more damage it will suffer. Fortunately, regular inspections from an experienced commercial roofing service will help you avoid costly repairs in the future.
A major sign it’s time to replace your commercial roof is persistent water leaks. Moisture damage isn’t just a nuisance; it can also harm your building’s structure and the people inside it.
Another indication that a new roof is needed is blistering, which happens when water gets trapped in the insulation and releases gases. This might lead to blistering of the roof’s outer layers, which can’t be fixed using patching supplies.
After a lot of rain, check your water meter to see whether leaks are coming from the roof. If the reading on your meter has gone up, you most likely leak a roof deck joist or in the insulation covering the roof.
Pools of Water
If you see pools of water on your commercial and residential roofing, this is a serious problem that must be addressed immediately. It’s also a sign that the roof is getting older and will eventually need to be replaced.
In most cases, these pools are the result of clogged downspouts. It’s not uncommon for twigs and leaves to get caught up in them, which causes the downspouts to be unable to carry water off the roof. This creates pooling areas of water that can cause extensive damage over time.
Another reason to replace your commercial roof is if it has become sagging or has dips in certain areas. This can lead to structural problems with the building and create safety hazards for employees and customers. In addition, a new roof can provide improved insulation and reduce energy costs by keeping the building cooler. This can help save money in the long run and make your business more profitable.
Water Stains
Water stains on the ceiling or walls are the first indication that a business roof needs to be repaired or replaced. These pale brown spots show that rainwater from the roof has seeped into the structure’s insulation. As a result, the structure cannot retain cold air during the summer and warm air during the winter. The result is greater energy costs.
Other indicators of commercial roof damage are a musty or damp smell. These indicate a lingering leak in the roof; if left unchecked, it can lead to dry rot and other costly issues.
It’s also important to watch out for clogged drains and cracking on the surface of your roof. If you notice these signs, it’s a good idea to call in a roofing company for an inspection. They can assess the situation and recommend the best course of action moving forward.
Mold
Mold loves damp places and thrives on a commercial roof that needs to be properly sealed.
If you have mold spots, mold stains, or musty odors throughout your building, it indicates that your commercial roof needs repair or replacement. A professional roof inspection from a qualified company can help you decide the best action.
It’s important to note that mold isn’t the same as mildew. Mildew has a flat appearance and looks like dirt or mildew on walls and doors, while a mold is green, black, or red and feels slimy. Molds are part of the Fungi kingdom and can be found almost anywhere there is moisture and oxygen. They play a vital role outdoors by breaking down dead plant matter and animal carcasses. However, indoor molds can be dangerous and cause health issues in those with allergies or a compromised immune system. This is because molds release spores that can irritate the nose, throat, and lungs of those who breathe them in.
