Common Commercial Roofing Problems & How to Fix Them

Commercial roofing is a significant investment for any business, and maintaining the integrity of a building’s roof is essential to protect its structure and contents. 

Roofing problems can escalate quickly if not addressed promptly, leading to costly repairs, safety hazards, and potential disruptions to daily operations. Knowing about some of the most common commercial roofing problems and their practical solutions will help you address these issues before they worsen.

Common Roofing Problems And Practical Solutions

1. Roof Leaks

Causes:

Leaks are among the most common roofing issues, whether in the case of residential buildings or commercial. They can occur due to damaged shingles, worn-out membranes, clogged drainage systems, or other reasons. Commercial roofs, especially flat ones, are prone to pooling water, which can lead to leaks over time.

How to Fix:

To fix roof leaks, it’s crucial to identify the source of the problem. Start by inspecting the roof for visible damage, such as blisters, cracks, or holes in the membrane. Once identified, repair the areas using roof patching materials or liquid-applied membranes. If the issue stems from clogged drains or gutters, clear them out to ensure proper water flow.

Regular inspections are vital for early leak detection, and if the problem persists, it may be necessary to replace sections of the roofing material or install a new drainage system. Relying on a professional service provider will help you get the right analysis to fix the real issue. 

2. Ponding Water

Causes:

Ponding water refers to the accumulation of standing water on the roof, often caused by poor drainage or a flat roof design. If left untreated, ponding water can lead to roof material deterioration, moss or algae growth, and increased weight load on the roof structure. In the long term, it can also be hazardous to people’s health. 

How to Fix:

The first step in addressing ponding water is to improve drainage systems. This might involve repairing or replacing downspouts, gutters, or scuppers to ensure water flows off the roof efficiently. 

In some cases, you may need to re-slope the roof or add additional drains to reduce water accumulation. Routine cleaning of drains and gutters is essential to prevent clogs that exacerbate ponding.

3. Damaged Flashing

Causes:

Flashing is the metal material used to seal joints, edges, and seams on a roof to prevent water from infiltrating the structure. Over time, flashing can corrode, crack, or separate, especially around roof penetrations, such as vents, chimneys, and skylights.

How to Fix:

If flashing is damaged, it should be replaced immediately to prevent water damage. Remove the old flashing carefully, clean the area, and install new flashing using appropriate sealants. 

In some cases, self-adhesive membrane flashing may provide a more durable solution, offering additional protection against water infiltration.

Regular inspections of flashing around roof penetrations can help catch minor issues before they become major problems.

4. Poor Roof Insulation

Causes:

Poor roof insulation can lead to energy inefficiency, moisture buildup, and temperature fluctuations inside the building. Insulation degradation can occur due to poor installation, water damage, or aging materials.

How to Fix:

Improving commercial roofing insulation involves either replacing or repairing the existing material. If water damage has occurred, it’s important to remove and replace any wet insulation to avoid mold growth and further roof damage. You can also consider installing high-quality spray foam insulation or rigid foam boards, which offer excellent thermal resistance.

Check to make sure that the insulation is applied evenly and that there are no gaps or voids, as uneven insulation can lead to air leaks and higher energy costs.

5. Roofing Membrane Damage

Causes:

Roof membranes, particularly EPDM (ethylene propylene diene monomer), TPO (thermoplastic olefin), and PVC materials, can suffer from tearing, puncturing, or ultraviolet (UV) degradation due to exposure to harsh weather conditions, UV rays, or physical damage.

How to Fix:

To repair membrane damage, identify the affected area and clean the surface before applying a patch. For small holes or tears, you can use a roof membrane repair kit. For larger areas, it may be necessary to replace the damaged section of the membrane completely.

Regular roof inspections should be performed to detect early signs of membrane wear, and maintenance, such as UV-resistant coatings, can extend the life of the roof membrane.

6. Roof Shrinkage

Causes:

Roof shrinkage occurs when roofing materials, such as EPDM or TPO, contract over time due to aging, weather exposure, or poor installation. Shrinkage can lead to tension at seams and potential leaks.

How to Fix:

To address roof shrinkage, the damaged areas must be carefully repaired. This may involve re-seaming the membrane or replacing the affected sections of material. To prevent future shrinkage, ensure that the materials are installed according to the manufacturer’s specifications and consider applying a protective coating to prolong the life of the roof.

7. Mold and Mildew Growth

Causes:

Mold and mildew thrive in moist, poorly ventilated areas. When condensation forms on the underside of the roof deck or water leaks penetrate the roofing system, mold can quickly grow and spread.

How to Fix:

Mold removal involves proper ventilation and cleaning. Ensure that the roof has adequate airflow by installing or repairing ventilation systems, including ridge vents, soffit vents, or exhaust fans. Mold and mildew can be cleaned with a mixture of bleach and water or using commercial mold removers.

If mold growth is severe, it’s best to consult a professional roofing contractor. Their specialist will assess the extent of the damage and determine whether a full roof replacement is needed.

8. Granule Loss

Causes:

Granule loss typically affects asphalt shingle roofs. Over time, granules that protect the shingles from UV damage wear away, leaving the shingles exposed to the elements. This can lead to premature aging and reduced waterproofing effectiveness, reducing the lifespan of the commercial roofing.

How to Fix:

If granule loss is observed, replacing the damaged shingles is often the most effective solution. Check the roof for large areas of granule loss or bald spots on the shingles, and replace the affected sections. Additionally, roof coatings can be applied to protect the remaining shingles and increase their lifespan.

9. Cracked or Broken Shingles

Causes:

Cracked or broken shingles can result from severe weather conditions, such as high winds, hailstorms, or extreme temperature fluctuations. Over time, shingles can also deteriorate due to UV exposure.

How to Fix:

Damaged shingles should be replaced as soon as possible to prevent water infiltration. Carefully lift the surrounding shingles to remove the damaged one and install a new one. Use roofing nails and ensure the replacement shingle is properly secured to avoid future damage.

10. Improper Installation

Causes:

Improper installation can lead to a range of roofing issues, from incorrectly sealed seams to misaligned panels. Subpar installation is a common cause of roofing problems that can shorten the lifespan of a commercial roof.

How to Fix:

If improper installation is identified, it may be necessary to reinstall sections of the roof. Work with an experienced roofing contractor to correct any installation issues and ensure that all components are securely fastened and properly sealed.

Conclusion

Maintaining a commercial roof requires ongoing attention to prevent minor problems from escalating into significant issues. By understanding the common roofing problems outlined above and addressing them with the appropriate solutions, you can protect your investment and ensure the longevity of your roof. Regular inspections, timely repairs, and proactive maintenance are the keys to preventing costly damage and extending the life of your commercial roof.

Sustainable Living Builders is a sustainable roofing solutions provider for residential and commercial buildings. With its expertise and high-quality materials, the team will ensure that you have more than the expected results that last for years to come. Contact now for more information and to get a free quote on your commercial roofing project!

Related Articles You May Like

✔️ What Can Companies Do More to Support Sustainability?
✔️ Everything You Need to Know About Solar Panels
✔️ Why a Solar Roof Tesla Is the Perfect Year-End Upgrade
✔️ 4 Tips for Finding the Right Contractor for Your Solar Installation
✔️ Are Solar Panels Worth It?