Roofs take a lot of punishment, few more so than a commercial roof, designed to house a much more complex structure beneath than a simple house. That’s why you can’t leave the situation of your roof to chance or hazard a lapse in maintenance. Roofs are designed to protect, but they need some help to do it.
When you think of the dangers commercial roofs face, you probably picture severe weather.
But even light rains can be a problem for the right roof. Critters can cause problems, buildup of tree debris, and the quiet killer of age. There’s a lot that can damage a roof that you may never think of.
Below are 5 ways your commercial roof can get damaged and how you can limit it.
Age
Even the best installed and most high-tech materials on a roof will eventually fall victim to age and all that comes with it. Even if there are no large storms or a pounding from debris, eventually general wear of time will breakdown a commercial roof. Generally, 20 years is considered a good life for a roof, depending on the condition, and the longer it goes on, the more worn and damaged it becomes. If your roof is nearing 20 years or is well past that, it might be time to take a look at it.
Unattended Leaks
Leaks aren’t something to simply let go of. If you spot a leak, hunt down its source and get it handled as quickly as possible. Leaks are often a symptom of a larger issue (such as clogged drainage or a material penetration) when they start but, if left on their own, can lead to larger and more complex issues. Don’t leave leaks when you notice them, track down the source and stymy it as quickly as possible.
Lapse in Maintenance
Roofs, especially commercial roofs, require routine maintenance. Even if nothing appears to be wrong, having a standing maintenance check for your roof is incredibly important for the trajectory of its health and longevity. Proactive roof maintenance can save you a lot of money in the long run without having to react to larger problems as they happen.
Standing Water
This is a particular problem in commercial roofs that sit flat or even simply have a low slope. Water can get caught on even plains in the roof and sit there, collecting during a rainstorm and putting pressure on the roof in a way it was not designed to handle. It’s not just a structural integrity problem, it can also dissolve adhesives and allow moisture to seep into the building.
Debris
Nothing pummels a rooftop like flying objects. From trash to flying tree branches, an debris can cause traumatic force to a roof that can cause damage or get stuck and clog drainage in a roof. Pile up of such materials weakens a roof’s integrity. It’s important to routinely monitor this since you may not always see debris from the ground.
Related Questions
What is the most common commercial roofing?
Some form of metal tends to be the most common commercial roofing material. This could be copper, aluminum, stainless steel, metal tile sheets, and others.
How can Duro-Last help?
Duro-Last is a shield for your existing roof, which helps support and reinforce the roof you already have to give it a longer life. It is safe, non-toxic and long-lasting. With an ultra-tight fit customized to your roof, Duro-Last is Energy Star-qualified so you save 40% annually on your electric bills. More questions? Talk to a roofing professional about the best ways to protect your commercial roof.
If you are looking for an experienced commercial roof contractor, MacDermott Roofing is your choice. We are an Elite Master Contractor and leading expert of the Duro-Last Roofing System.
We have been providing commercial roofing installation, replacement, and repair throughout the Detroit metropolitan area for over 40 years and work with all types of roofing systems. Our reputation for service, technical skill and product knowledge ensures a job well done and done right. Call us today for a Free Estimate on your commercial roof project!