6 Warning Signs That You May Need a New Commercial Roof
Flat roofs are sanctuaries for debris especially when there are strong winds and storms. The movement of this debris can cause physical damage to the roof. Decomposition could also lead to hastened roof deterioration.
Some roofs are also not installed properly, leading to a slew of issues, not to mention gradual deterioration from walking on the surface for roofing repairs. Unfortunately, if roof problems are left ignored, it can result in irreversible damage to your company’s budget, energy expenditures, safety, and reputation.
Don’t put off getting a new commercial roof until it becomes a safety problem! Avoid the expenditures by inspecting your roof for these 6 warning signs.
Here are the Top Reasons it’s Time to Replace Your Commercial Roof
1. Roof Odors
Do you have a musty odor in your commercial space? If that’s the case, you might already have a mold problem. This is most likely due to standing water on your flat roof. Algae and mold growth as a result of high humidity and retained moisture.
Not only is black mold an eyesore for clients and the city, but it also poses a health danger to your personnel. Black mold can induce skin diseases, respiratory issues, exhaustion, and dizziness if it is allowed to proliferate. This could make you liable for any roofing mold-related illnesses at work.
Early intervention, therefore can not only save your roof but your company as well from work injury claims. Before El Nio strikes, schedule a maintenance appointment to make repairs, check for leaks, and remove mold. You could also save yourself from future repair expenditures by buying a brand-new commercial roof if your roof mold has spread uncontrollably.
2. You’re Prone to Water Leaks.
Commercial roofs are subject to leakage due to several factors:
• Storms with strong winds
• Inadequate upkeep
• Old roofing materials
• Improper installation
• Leaking seams
• Accidents
Roof leaks can be caused by anything from your HVAC unit to other heavy rooftop equipment. Outdated equipment that has been left to deteriorate could lead to leaks, say an outdated rooftop ventilation system, that could be leaky, enabling rain to soak through the access panels. Moreover, it’s easier for water to get through outdated roofs hence leading to mold growth.
Rooftop puddles, however, aren’t the sole source of leaks after a storm. Mold can grow in your flat roof gutters if they’re clogged with debris and standing water. Routine maintenance appointments are therefore vital in avoiding moldy gutters. Generally speaking, however, flat roofs require a well-designed drainage system to keep the leaks and mold away.
3. Your Roof Is Blistering and Bubbling
Wondering why the surface of your flat roof is covered in blisters and bubbles? The most common cause of bubbling is gradual wear and tear. Weather changes and walking on the roof eventually lifts your roofing materials, causing a bubbling impression. Bubbling or blistering can also be caused by moisture buildup, improper installation, or poor ventilation.
The elements could also cause roof bubbles to expand in size. Warm air expands bubbles, while cold temperatures compress the trapped air and standing water. Consequently, roof bubbles will eventually pop, resulting in further costly repairs.
A roofer can repair a few blisters, but the more bubbles on your roof, the greater the chance of permanent damage. Install a brand new business flat roof to prevent roof bubbling.
4. Roof Cracks
Do you have a flat roof that looks like alligator skin? This is a frequent issue with flat asphalt roofs that have been there for a long time. Cracking, commonly known as “alligatoring,” is a sure sign that your commercial roof has to be replaced.
Alligatoring happens as a result of long-term exposure to the sun. UV rays dry up your roof’s membrane over time, causing ugly fissures on the surface. Consequently, your roof is made more vulnerable to leaks and rooftop mishaps.
Perhaps the worst part about it is that cracks only get worse with time, especially when the weather changes. Furthermore, indoor heating and cooling systems are notorious for making roof cracks more severe.
Cracks could also just be an indication that it’s time to replace your old roof. Typically, flat roofs average about 15 years, and with proper maintenance, they can last even longer. When your flat roof cracks, it may be time to repair or replace it. Note that flat roofs tend to be more prone to cracking than other roof types because they can withstand more force and strain.
To strengthen your flat roof, make sure that it is resistant to stress, weight, and temperature changes by using a single-ply or modified bitumen system. Additionally, don’t leave roof cracks exposed for an extended period. Moisture loves to pool between the gaps, providing the ideal environment for algae and mold to thrive. To avoid leaks, make sure your new roof has a watertight surface covering.
5. Ever-Increasing Energy Bills
High energy costs are one of the most distressing indications of a dysfunctional roof. High energy expenses can eat into corporate margins, affecting a business’s profit margins. As such, note that your HVAC system will work overtime to generate heat if your roof is leaking or cracked.
That said, your energy costs will rise unexpectedly. Since indoor temperatures are used by HVAC systems to appropriately analyze and distribute heat, when a roof is damaged, the HVAC system runs for longer. This increases energy costs. A strong roofing system insulates your building and traps heat and cold air within, reducing the workload on your heating and cooling systems.
6. Interior Damage
Exterior damage detracts from your property’s curb appeal and deters visitors, but did you realize that roof damage can also be seen on the inside as well?
Roof leaks can cause unsightly water damage to your company’s interior walls, offices, and even lobby. Blistering plaster, fissures, and ceiling stains are common signs of leaks. By the time this happens, you’ll require both inside and external repairs, as well as a new roof.
If there’s internal water damage, there’s a good chance you’ll also have a mold problem. Don’t put your customers’ and employees’ health and safety in danger. To preserve safety and compliance, schedule a roofing appointment as soon as possible.
New roofing is an important business investment, but maintenance is just as important. To avoid rising repair costs, schedule regular inspections to ensure your roof is in good working order.
7. Wind Damage
Wind damage to a roof can include missing or lifted shingles, detached flashing, exposed underlayment, or visible structural damage. It may result in leaks, and compromised integrity, and requires immediate attention to prevent further issues and ensure the safety of the building.
Now Is the Time to Repair Your Old and Worn Out Commercial Roof
Stop footing the bill for your leaking roof! Let us reinstate your business while keeping your employees and clients safe! Get in touch with us right away to learn more or to get a quote!
Commercial Roofing Northern Kentucky
Commercial Roofing Indian-hill
Commercial Roofing Liberty Township
Commercial Roofing West Chester
Commercial Roofing Centerville