Commercial Roofing Problems You’ll Encounter

There are a lot of potential issues that can occur to a commercial roof. Fortunately, most of them can be prevented through careful planning, regular inspection and skillful workmanship with the help of a reputable roofing contractor. Here is a list of common roof issues to help you avoid dealing with large, costly problems in the future.

1. Roof Leaks

A leaking roof can cause a lot of significant damage. Check for water stains that extend across ceilings and run down walls. Missing shingles, torn flashing and clogged gutters are the usual causes of leaks. It is important to schedule maintenance visits on a regular basis in order to detect and address small issues that can lead to severe property damage.

2. Ponding Water

Ponding water is a normal occurrence on poorly-designed flat roofs. A 1” deep pond weighs about 5.2 lbs/square foot. The additional weight can pose a threat to the structure of your building, leading to roof collapse in extreme cases. You can address drainage issues on the roof by hiring a commercial roofer to install roof drains or tapered roof insulation.

3. Punctures

If not fixed in a timely manner, punctures and the addition of penetrations, such as chimneys and skylights, on a commercial roof can lead to roof leaks and roof failure. A single-ply roofing system may also find excessive foot traffic to be hazardous. Make sure to limit traffic and perform regular inspections after tradespeople have been on the roof.

4. Shrinkage

If you have an EPDM roof, one of the first things you should watch out for is shrinkage. Check for flashings pulling away from the curb and cracking of uncured membrane. It is crucial to conduct professional roofing inspection at least two times a year, preferably in the spring and fall seasons.

Dynamic Roofing Concepts Inc. is a premier source of roof replacement and storm-damaged roof repair solutions in Florida. We work diligently to provide clients in and around Tampa, FL, with exceptional service from start to finish. Call at (813) 657-7663 or fill out our contact form to set up an appointment.