Issues with your commercial roof are inevitable. It is exposed to the harshest weather conditions and is often neglected for years on end. It’s your responsibility as a building owner or property manager to ensure the commercial roofing for your Aston, PA, business is in good condition. You’ll want to catch problems with the roof before they become expensive repairs and so you can extend the life expectancy of this essential component of the building.

Review these common commercial roof problems and how you can fix them.

Roof Leaks

Just like with your home roof, leaks are one of the most common roofing issues you can experience with your commercial building. Moisture can get under the layers of roofing material and seep into the rest of the building’s structure. Rain, sleet, snow, hail, and debris can cause roof leaks, leading to dripping water or puddles in the building, mold and water stains on the roof and walls, and musty smells.

If you notice any of these signs of a roof leak, reach out to a roofing company for repairs. They can patch the leak and fix any subsequent damage to the building. To prevent roof leaks, you could have the commercial roofing system water-proofed.

Poor Roofing Installation

Have you noticed that it seems like you’re constantly having issues with the roof on your commercial building? This could be because it was improperly installed when the building was constructed. Poor installation of a roof increases the likelihood of problems and reduces its lifespan. A properly installed and maintained roofing system should last about 15-20 years.

If you have several issues with your roof, it may be time to consult a commercial roofing expert for a roof replacement.

Lack of Maintenance

One of the biggest reasons people experience issues with their commercial roofing systems is because they do not keep up with preventive maintenance. Clearing debris from the roof and trimming overhanging branches can make a world of difference, and it will prevent problems from growing into costly repairs. Regular roofing inspections and maintenance by a professional can help you save money and extend the life of your roof.

Punctures

Many different things can puncture a commercial roofing system. Wind and hail are common culprits, but someone inexperienced walking on the roof can also break through the roofing layers without realizing it.

If these punctures are not caught early on, severe damage to the structural integrity of the building can be done. A roofing contractor can discover the puncture and have it fixed before it destroys the roof.

Standing Water

If you have a flat roof, you need to be aware of issues with standing water (or ponding water, as it is sometimes called). Drains can be clogged by leaves, bird nests, and other debris, creating a puddle of water that can damage the roof. Standing water may also be caused by malfunctioning HVAC units or roofs with improper pitch (or angle). A roofing contractor can diagnose the problem and provide proper repairs.

Blow-Offs

Wind can sometimes cause roof blow-offs. This is when wind glides over the top of the building, creating a suction that pulls weak materials off the roof. Blow-offs are a common problem when the roof hasn’t been fully cured. A roofing company will need to come out and secure roofing materials to prevent issues like water damage.

Shrinkage

Underneath the shingles is the roof membrane. This layer can shrink, causing the shingles to lift or crack and the flashing to pull away from the wall. Your local commercial roofing expert can help you determine if repairs will be enough to fix the issue or if you need to have a roof replacement.

Damaged or Improperly Installed Flashing

The flashing is the part of the roof that seals any openings, such as those surrounding skylights, pipes, vents, or HVAC units. If the flashing is damaged or hasn’t been installed correctly, the tiles on the roof can lift and blow off the roof. A roofing contractor will need to repair the flashing, so no further damage develops.

Trust Commercial Roofing Experts for Repairs

The best way to stay on top of these common commercial roofing problems is to have the roof inspected annually. This inspection will catch minor issues before they turn into severe damage. If you suspect your commercial roofing in Aston, PA, or the surrounding area is already damaged, get in touch with a team of expert roofers for roof repairs. We will diagnose and repair minor and major roofing problems.