Commercial Roof Replacement: 8 Signs It’s Time

If you’re running a business, then you’ll be fully aware of how important it is to have a roof that works. Not only will a failing roof cause issues internally, but it’ll also cause an external problems.

Replacement can be easy, but knowing when to replace the roof is often a tricky call – and one that can cost your business a lot of money if you make the wrong one. Before you decide to replace your roof have it checked out by a qualified Commercial Roof Repair company, as it may only need a few repairs here or there, rather than a full replacement.

So here are the important signs to look out for that’ll tell you when commercial roof replacement is necessary.

1. If there is a Water Leak

If your commercial building has a water leak, then it might be time for a roof replacement. The first sign of a problem is often a roof leak, but there can be more subtle signs of weather damage. Moisture in the wall space, wet insulation, discolored decking, sagging roof lines, and rotting wood are all indications that a roof replacement is necessary.

Without proper preventive care and regular maintenance, these signs are likely to get worse. It can also eventually lead to structural damage. If you observe any signs of water leaks or other signs of damage, it is important to contact qualified commercial roofing services to evaluate the condition of your roof and recommend proactive replacement or repair solutions.

2. Unexplained Mold or Mildew

Unexplained mold or mildew can be an indication that it is time to replace your commercial roof. Mold or mildew can develop due to moisture accumulation in the roof system when proper drainage is not present or if the material used is not properly sealed. In an environment such as a commercial roof, mold or mildew could quickly spread to the interior of the building.

Which will potentially affect its occupants and damage items stored inside. Additionally, water infiltration due to the presence of mold or mildew could also cause the roof to degrade, leading to premature roof failure. If your commercial roof has unexplained mold or mildew, it is time to replace it to reduce the risk of further damage.

3. Cracked Sealants

Cracked sealants are one of the eight major signs that a commercial property needs a roof replacement. Sealants, like caulking and sealants around pipes and roof protrusions, are a major indicator of roof and building health. If a sealant is cracked, it likely needs to be replaced as soon as possible.

Damaged sealants lead to leaking which could result in significant levels of damage to the overall roof and building structure. Therefore, having cracked sealants can be an indication that the roof needs repair or replacement. Building owners need to have commercial roofing contractors inspect sealants regularly. 

4. Seeing Rust and Corrosion

Commercial roof replacement can be a costly endeavor, but if signs of rust and corrosion are visible, it may be time for a replacement. Rust forms when the metal on a roof is exposed to moisture and oxygen. A rusty roof can quickly lead to damaged supporting structures.

Corrosion can also occur when moisture seeps into a roof, often caused by a broken seal, and can lead to the metal being weakened and more prone to cracking. If rust is found, it is important to have a commercial roofing company inspect the roof and evaluate the extent of the damage. You can also do a commercial roof repair if you don’t have the budget for a roof replacement.

5. Peeled Paint

Peeled paint is one of the earliest signs that it may be time to replace a commercial roof. Loosely adhering paint chips and blisters at the surface indicate the roof system has aged and water has penetrated beneath the membrane. The blistering can cause further decay, so any signs of peeled paint should be investigated further.

If any of these signs are present, the roof should be replaced as soon as possible to avoid further damage. Commercial roofing should be maintained and immediately addressed if there are issues.

6. Granules in the Gutter

Granules in the gutter are one of the eight signs it is time to pay serious attention to a commercial roof replacement. As an important part of the weatherproofing of the roof, granules were designed to ensure that the outermost layer of the roof system remains in good condition. Which should also be able to protect the other levels from water damage.

When these protective granules begin to break away, the roof is more vulnerable to water damage. Which can ultimately lead to the failure of the roof system. As such, it is of the utmost importance to keep an eye out for granules in the gutter and replace the roof as soon as possible when such a sign is detected.

7. Age of Roof

The age of a roof is an important indicator of when it’s time for a commercial roof replacement. Generally, commercial roofing systems have a life expectancy of 20-30 years. However, factors such as weather, the type of materials used, and the quality of its installation can play a role in the overall age of the roof. 

Lastly, check for a reduction in energy efficiency due to aged insulation or ventilation systems. Ignoring these warning signs could lead to costly repairs down the line. It’s important to monitor the age of the roof and identify any issues early on to avoid any unnecessary costs.

8. Visible Sags or Dips

Visible sags or dips in commercial roofs are signs that it’s time for a replacement. When a roof is beginning to sag, this can be a sign that either the decking underneath it is starting to fail, or that the roof itself requires emergency help. The sagging could indicate that structural damage is present or that the roof is too weak to bear its weight anymore.

If the sagging is happening rapidly or is visible at multiple points, it’s likely time for a full replacement. Regularly inspecting your commercial roof is the best way to catch visible sags or dips before they become an expensive problem. 

Keep Your Commercial Roof in a Good Condition

Overall, if you notice any of the signs mentioned such as water dripping inside, dirty or curling shingle granules, or any other mentioned, then it’s time to replace the roof. Make sure you contact a professional roofing contractor to help you with your commercial roof replacement needs.

However, before you choose commercial roofing contractors make sure to do a lot of research to avoid costly mistakes. Don’t wait until further damage is done – call today to secure your commercial property!

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