When it comes to commercial roofing, small issues can quickly turn into major problems if left unaddressed. As a business owner or facility manager, understanding the most common commercial roof problems and how to prevent them can save you time, money, and stress in the long run. At Alpha Commercial Roofs, we’ve been providing expert commercial roofing services to businesses throughout the Southeast for years, and we know how to keep your roof in top condition.
In this blog post, we’ll cover the most frequent roofing issues that affect commercial buildings and offer tips on how to avoid them.
1. Leaks and Moisture
One of the most common issues for any commercial roof is water leakage. Over time, cracks or damage in roofing materials can allow water to seep through, leading to interior damage, mold growth, and structural issues. Leaks can be especially problematic in flat roofing systems, which are commonly used in commercial buildings.
How to Avoid It:
Schedule regular roof inspections, especially after heavy storms.
Ensure proper sealing around HVAC units, skylights, and other roof penetrations.
Promptly repair any small cracks or damage before they worsen.
2. Ponding Water
Ponding water refers to the accumulation of standing water on a flat or low-slope roof after rainfall. This can cause the roofing material to deteriorate, lead to leaks, and even result in structural damage due to the added weight.
How to Avoid It:
Install proper drainage systems to direct water off the roof efficiently.
Check for areas of sagging or improper slope that could cause water buildup.
Ensure your roof is designed with sufficient pitch or drainage systems
3. Blow-Offs and Wind Damage
Strong winds are a common threat and commercial roofs are often vulnerable to blow-offs and damage from high winds. Wind can lift sections of roofing material, especially if they’re not properly fastened, leading to serious issues over time.
How to Avoid It:
Invest in high-quality roofing materials that are designed to withstand local weather conditions.
Regularly inspect the roof's edges and seams to ensure they are secure.
Have your roof inspected after major storms to identify any signs of wind damage.
4. Roof Shrinkage
Roof shrinkage occurs when certain types of roofing materials, such as single-ply membranes, contract over time due to exposure to UV radiation or extreme temperatures. Shrinkage can lead to cracked flashing, splits, and other types of damage that compromise the roof's integrity.
How to Avoid It:
Choose UV-resistant roofing materials designed for long-term durability.
Ensure that the roofing membrane is properly installed and tensioned to prevent excessive shrinkage.
Schedule routine inspections to catch early signs of shrinkage before it leads to larger issues.
5. Flashing Failures
Flashing is used to seal the roof’s edges, drains, vents, and other areas where water could penetrate. Over time, flashing can deteriorate, become loose, or fail entirely, leading to leaks and water damage.
How to Avoid It:
Inspect the flashing around critical roof areas regularly, especially after severe weather.
Ensure that all flashing is properly installed by experienced professionals.
Repair or replace damaged flashing as soon as possible to prevent leaks.
6. Poor Installation or Repairs
Many commercial roofing problems stem from improper installation or repairs. If the roofing materials are not installed correctly, or if low-quality materials are used, it can result in premature failure and costly repairs.
How to Avoid It:
Always hire experienced and certified commercial roofing contractors like Alpha Commercial Roofs.
Ensure all repairs use high-quality materials that are compatible with your existing roofing system.
Perform regular inspections to catch any signs of poor workmanship.
7. Roof Punctures and Penetrations
Commercial roofs can be easily punctured by heavy foot traffic, especially when HVAC units or other equipment is being serviced. These punctures may seem minor, but they can lead to significant leaks and water damage if not addressed.
How to Avoid It:
Limit foot traffic on your roof and ensure that maintenance personnel are cautious when working on the roof.
Install protective walkways or pavers on the roof to prevent accidental damage.
Inspect the roof for punctures after any work is performed.
Conclusion: Preventing Commercial Roof Problems
Preventative maintenance is key to avoiding costly commercial roof repairs. Regular inspections and prompt attention to small issues can keep your roof in excellent condition and extend its lifespan. At Alpha Commercial Roofs, we specialize in providing comprehensive commercial roof maintenance services throughout the Southeast
If you’re concerned about the condition of your commercial roof or need expert advice on maintenance, contact us today at 855-862-7663
