As a business owner, you know how important it is to protect your commercial property from the elements. Your roof is your first line of defense against the harsh realities of Mother Nature, shielding your building, employees, and inventory from the damaging effects of storms. But even the most durable commercial roofing system won’t last forever, and severe weather events can take a serious toll.

That’s why it’s crucial to have your commercial roof thoroughly inspected by a professional roofing company after any major storm. But how can you tell if your roofing system has sustained damage? What are the telltale signs that it’s time to call commercial roofers in Middletown, DE Keep reading to learn everything you need to know about spotting storm damage on your commercial roof.

Visible Signs of Commercial Roof Damage After a Storm

The most obvious indications that your commercial roof needs an inspection are visible signs of damage on the surface. After a heavy storm with high winds, hail, or driving rain, take a close look at your roofing materials for any of these key issues:

Missing or Damaged Shingles

If you have an asphalt shingle roof, keep an eye out for shingles that have gone missing, are cracked, or have become dislodged. This leaves your roof vulnerable to leaks and further damage.

Cracks or Holes in the Roof Membrane

Commercial roofs often feature a seamless membrane made of materials like EPDM or TPO. Storm damage can create cracks, holes, or other breaches in this protective layer, allowing moisture to seep in.

Pooling Water or Sagging

Heavy rainfall or melting snow can lead to pockets of standing water on your commercial roof. This puts extra strain on the structure and can accelerate deterioration over time. Sagging or depressions in the roof surface are another sign that something isn’t right.

Hidden Damage Inside Your Commercial Building

Even if you don’t see obvious signs of storm damage on the outside of your commercial building, that doesn’t mean your roof has emerged unscathed. In fact, some of the most serious issues can be hidden from view, only becoming apparent once they’ve had a chance to develop. Keep an eye out for these interior warning signs:

Water Stains on Ceilings or Walls

Discoloration, peeling paint, or visible dampness on your ceilings and walls could indicate that water is infiltrating your commercial roof and making its way into your building.

Mold or Mildew Growth

Standing water or undetected roof leaks provide the perfect breeding ground for mold and mildew. If you start to notice these fungal growths, it’s a clear sign that your commercial roofing system needs attention.

Damaged Insulation

Storm damage can compromise the insulation in your commercial roof, making your HVAC system work harder and reducing your overall energy efficiency.

Why You Need a Professional Roof Inspection After a Storm

No matter what type of commercial roofing system you have, whether it be metal, TPO, EPDM, or something else, it’s crucial to have it inspected by a qualified professional after any major storm. Here’s why:

Catch Hidden Damage

As we’ve discussed, the most serious roof damage isn’t always visible from the ground. An experienced roofing contractor will be able to thoroughly inspect every inch of your commercial roof, uncovering any hidden issues before they have a chance to turn into bigger, costlier problems.

Preserve Your Roof’s Integrity

Getting a professional roof inspection ensures that your commercial roofing system retains its structural integrity and ability to protect your property. Identifying and addressing problems early can extend the lifespan of your roof and prevent the need for premature, expensive replacement.

Document Damage for Insurance Claims

If your commercial roof does sustain significant damage from a storm, having a detailed inspection report will be invaluable when it comes time to file an insurance claim. This documentation can help you get the full coverage you’re entitled to.

What to Expect During a Professional Roof Inspection

When you hire reputable commercial roofers in Middletown, DE, to inspect your building after a storm, here’s what you can expect:

• A thorough visual inspection of the entire roof surface, looking for signs of damage like missing or cracked shingles, holes in the membrane, and pooling water.

• An evaluation of your roof’s drainage systems to ensure they are functioning properly and directing water away from the building.

• An interior inspection to check for any leaks, water stains, mold growth, or other issues that could indicate roof-related problems.

• A detailed report outlining the current condition of your commercial roof, any issues that were identified, and recommended next steps for repairs or replacement.

Protect Your Investment with Regular Roof Inspections

While it’s especially important to have your commercial roof inspected after a major storm, it’s also crucial to schedule regular professional inspections on an ongoing basis. This helps you stay ahead of potential problems and keep your roofing system in peak condition. Routine roof inspections allow you to catch minor issues before they balloon into costly, extensive damage. They also give you insight into the overall lifespan of your commercial roof so you can budget and plan accordingly for eventual replacement.

Don’t wait until it’s too late to take care of your commercial roofing system. Contact the team at Lane Roofing today to schedule your professional roof inspection and ensure your property is protected, no matter what Mother Nature has in store.