What can cause the need for a commercial roof replacement?

Commercial roof replacement

Demand for commercial roofing in the United States will expand exponentially in the coming years. Commercial offices and warehouse buildings are increasing rapidly as the need for offices and industrial space continues to grow. As new commercial buildings are built locally, there will also be increased demand for commercial roofing specialists.

Roof replacement is a necessary step to ensure your commercial property's roof remains structurally sound and protects you from the elements. Wear and tear over time can lead to unseen structural damage that may not immediately be apparent, making preventive roof maintenance by professional roof repair experts all the more critical. However, sometimes damage cannot be repaired, and Commercial Roof Replacement is the best option for ensuring a sturdy rooftop for years to come. Common signs that commercial roof replacement may be needed include water leaks or pooling water, cracks in the structure, wear and tear inside and outside the building, dark or stained spots on ceilings or walls, mold, or issues with the gutters.

1. Moss and Plant Growth

Commercial roofing specialists have trained eyes for spotting fungi, moss, and other plant growth, which are significant indicators of damage or trapped moisture. In many cases, this can be seen as moss peeking through shingles or even darker patches of mold around a roof's surface. It is understandable to want to brush this off and forget about it, but it can be a serious issue if not addressed properly. Commercial roofing specialists know to take great care in inspecting these areas with a stiff brush, as it could potentially reveal structural problems beneath the surface that warrant replacement. While some actionable steps may seem daunting at first blush, mitigating plant growth on roofs must be done quickly to prevent further damage.

2. Sagging

It is vital to address a sagging roof immediately. This can often be a sign of rot, and if so, further inspection by a commercial roofing specialist will be required. The sag may not be noticeable, but it could be due to structural damage to the roof's underlying wood beams. A professional should identify any weak points in the lowest regions of your roof, where rot is most likely to have occurred. To ensure your home is structurally sound, your sagging roof must be inspected quickly before further structural damage occurs.

3. Shingle or Single-Ply Irregularities

Commercial roof replacement irregularities, such as cracks, buckling, and other types of wear and tear on shingles or single-ply, should not be ignored. Minor damage may be repaired, but more extensive wear usually means the roof needs to be replaced. Commercial roofing specialists can gauge the severity of any damage and determine what must be done to correct it. Additionally, homeowners should periodically check their gutters and downspouts for shingle granules—an accumulation could indicate that a commercial roof replacement is necessary. Do not take chances with your business’s safety; have a professional inspect your commercial property today!

4. Age

Commercial roof replacement is often necessary once a roof has reached a certain age, regardless of how well it has been maintained in the meantime. Before making any final decisions to replace a roof, it's essential to check the documentation verifying the age of the existing installation. Generally speaking, asphalt shingle roofs will last between 20 and 25 years if installed correctly. However, suppose an additional layer of shingles has been added over an existing one at some point. In that case, this may reduce their lifespan and typically indicates they should be replaced after 20 years. Therefore, it's always better to err on the side of caution when considering commercial roof replacement to ensure your commercial building remains well protected from environmental hazards and other damage.

5. Ventilation Problems

Commercial roof ventilation is essential for detecting warning signs of potential or existing roof damage before catastrophic consequences occur. Attics and crawlspaces used for storage are typically situated beneath a commercial roof. They should be thoroughly inspected for any signs that the structure has been affected. These can include light coming through the ceiling, unexplained stains, or dark streaks appearing on the walls. Commercial buildings may not have access to a traditional attic, but it is still appropriate to inspect the areas closest to the roof to detect any hidden issues. Some warning signs of an aging or failing roof might not be readily apparent, so more frequent evaluations by a certified inspector are recommended to prevent costly replacement work earlier than needed. Roof maintenance must be taken seriously as it can prolong the life of your commercial roof and protect those within the building from unforeseen hazards.