Over time, commercial roofs develop wear and tear, particularly in our Midwest region where we're no stranger to hail damage, snow storms, strong winds, and even tornados. But aside from the elements, minor roof damage left in disrepair can lead to serious issues that compromise your roof's integrity.
We understand that no one wants to deal with a full roof replacement, but people also tend to prolong getting necessary repairs that improve their roof's longevity. The result is often the premature replacement of your commercial roof.
So, how do you know if you need to repair or replace a roof?
In a previous article, we shared tips on when to repair or replace a flat roof system. However, it's not uncommon for commercial properties like dentist offices, churches, local banks or credit unions, family restaurants, or universities to have steep-sloped or pitched roofs. If you operate your business underneath this type of roofing system, this article is for you!
We'll guide you through the basics of detecting roof damage and when a replacement may be necessary.
Visible Signs of Roof Damage
Let's start with the most common signs of commercial roof damage.
Cracks and Tears
Visible cracks, tears, or blistering often indicate that your roof membrane may be deteriorating and could lead to leaks and water damage if not addressed promptly.
Leaks
Water stains on the ceiling, mold growth, or damp spots in your building are clear indicators of a roof leak. Leaks should be addressed immediately to prevent further damage to the interior of your commercial space—not to mention the health and safety of the people inside it.
> How to identify if it's a roof leak or condensation.
Missing or Damaged Shingles
If your building has a shingle roof, look for missing, curling, or cracked shingles. Damaged shingles can leave your roof vulnerable to water infiltration.
Less Visible Signs of Roof Damage
In addition to the more common indicators mentioned above, here are a few other warning signs that might be less obvious at first.
- Increased energy bills due to poor insulation or ventilation
- Presence of granules from shingles in gutters or downspouts
- Deterioration of the roof underlayment
If you identify any of these issues, contact your local commercial roofer for a professional inspection. At All Elements, Inc., our team will travel to your location, inspect your flat or steep-sloped system to determine if a roof repair vs. replacement is needed or vice versa.
Ignoring the Warning Signs: What's the Risk?
When you ignore commercial roof repairs, even minor issues can escalate into major problems. For instance, a small leak can eventually lead to structural issues, including:
- Rotting of the roof decking
- Corrosion of metal components
- Deterioration of structural supports
- Weakening of the overall roof structure
Ignoring repairs can compromise the safety and integrity of the building, creating potential hazards for occupants while diminishing your property's overall value.
It's important to remember that neglecting any necessary repairs may result in higher long-term costs and could necessitate premature replacement of the entire roofing system. So, even if your roof damage only needs a repair vs. replacement, you could be in jeopardy of the latter the longer you wait to call in the professionals.
Let's Talk about Your Roof's Age
A good indicator that your roof needs replacement is its age. PVC, TPO, BUR, metal, or asphalt all have different lifespans. So, if your roof is approaching its EOL (end of life), you'll need to consider a replacement rather than continuous repairs.
> Learn more about commercial roofing lifespans
Is It Time to Take Action?
If you notice any of the aforementioned warning signs, your roof is nearing its end of life, or you haven't had a roof inspection in over a year, it's time to call in our team to ensure the safety and longevity of your commercial building.
For decades, we've supported business owners in the Midwest with professional roof inspection, repair, and replacement services. We've worked on all different types of roofing systems, too. So, you can trust us to handle any size roof and any material.
Protect your roofing investment with All Elements, Inc. To request a quote or inspection, contact us today!