Commercial roofs are complicated systems that require routine maintenance to get the most of your investment. Still, even the most well-kept roofs experience issues over time. When moisture seeps beneath the protective barrier, commercial roof leaks can create costly damage. Even if there are no apparent signs of a leak, your commercial roof can start to fail. No one wants to see their commercial roof leak, but understanding the common causes can help you prevent most problems.
Besides understanding the causes of commercial roof leaks, you should also know the signs of commercial roofing leaks. This includes visible mold, foul odors, dripping water, puddles of water, and discolored walls, among other issues. As soon as you notice these signs, you should contact a local roofer immediately for repairs. Ignoring commercial roof leaks can lead to significant damage and costly repairs. Let’s discuss the most common causes of commercial roof leaks.
3 Common Causes of Commercial Roof Leaks
The most common causes of commercial roof leaks include:
Penetrations and Punctures
Unfortunately, you cannot avoid some commercial roof systems like vents, HVAC units, drains, and placed into your roof. Many of these systems need to penetrate your roofing system to function correctly. While you can’t avoid some installations, these places need special attention to ensure they are correctly installed and sealed.
When vents, HVAC units, and drains aren’t correctly placed into your roof, your commercial roofing is more susceptible to damage. Improper installation, punctures from loose equipment, and broken seals are among the top causes of commercial roof leaks. If you don’t indefinity the problem immediately and schedule repairs, your roof can become significantly damaged.
Some damage becomes so bad that you need a total roof replacement. If you think there’s penetration or puncture in your commercial roof, contact your local roofer immediately for an inspection.
Old Materials
While most roofs are built to last for decades, they won’t last forever. Most commercial roofs are flat, and flat roofs have a lifespan of up to 20 years, even if you invest in a proper maintenance plan. As any roof ages, old materials can wear down and become easily damaged.
Deteriorating roof materials are more susceptible to damage. Older materials can quickly wear down from constant exposure to sunlight, wind, and other storm conditions. If you have an aging roof, you should invest in more frequent maintenance inspections. In most cases, it’s better to be proactive with your replacement before you face significant damage to the interior of your property.
Improper Drainage
Most commercial roofs are built to stand the pressure of water buildup. Still, you need to make sure your roof drains eventually. Standing water can significantly impact the integrity of your roof. If there is an issue with your commercial roof drainage that prevents it from functioning correctly, you should talk to your local roofers for an affordable option.
When water begins to collect on your roof, it can weigh it down, causing roof leaks that can escalate quickly. When you notice that water is not draining properly from your roof, inspect your drains for any blockages. If the pitch of your roof is the issue, talk to your local roofer for the most effective plan to keep your roof from collecting standing water.
You can hire a commercial roofer to inspect your roof after all significant rainstorms if you have the budget. They won’t just check for damage, but they will also remove any standing water.
Need Commercial Roof Repairs? Ortiz Roofing Is Here to Help!
If you need a reliable San Bernardino roofer, our team is here to help. Contact Ortiz Roofing to schedule an appointment today!