8 Signs That You Need a New Commercial Roof
Summit Commercial Roofing
Author
Commercial flat roofs have long lifespans, but they’re not invincible. If you’ve noticed any of these signs, it’s time to schedule an inspection.
Commercial flat roofs have long lifespans, but they’re not invincible. If you’ve noticed any of these signs, it’s time to schedule an inspection.
When was the last time you replaced your roof? Depending on the material they’re constructed from, commercial flat roofs can last anywhere between 15 and 25 years, but that lifespan isn’t set in stone. Poor maintenance and severe weather events can lead to premature failure and, if not addressed, to interior mold growth and, in extreme cases, significant structural issues.
You should have your roof professionally inspected every five years, or after a major storm event (hail, above-average wind, and tornadoes), to assess for the following signs of damage:
PVC and TPO roofing involves some welding. While installation defects are possible, seam separation is caused by membrane shrinkage, wind uplift, or heavy foot traffic. Welded seams hold compressive residual stress, which can lead to stress cracks. Seams will last for several years, but over time they can be damaged by UV exposure, heavy rain, and high winds.
With PVC roofing specifically, the plasticizers that keep the roofing system flexible will leach out over time, especially when exposed to extreme heat and UV rays, and the associated temperature fluctuations cause the membrane to contract and stiffen. When PVC shrinks, it will appear loose with uneven sections, similar to how Saran Wrap looks when it’s under too much tension. PVC can last a long time, but this is an unfortunate downside: it will eventually shrink.
Michigan experiences all four seasons, and with that come thermal expansion and contraction cycling caused by extreme high and low temperatures. These cycles wear on flat roofs over time, causing stiffness in the membrane, specifically at penetration points. Cracking usually occurs when a brittle membrane is impacted, whether by hail or foot traffic.
Flat roofs are water-resistant, but if insulation shifts, buildings settle, or drains become clogged, water can pool after heavy rain. These issues can sometimes be resolved by rebuilding the slope and relocating drains, but if the pooling water has caused rot on the decking, the entire system needs to be replaced.
Tears are usually caused by roof installation accidents or large hail, although foot traffic can cause tears if the membrane becomes brittle.
Blistering is almost always an installation problem, either caused by poor adhesion, poor priming, or excessive humidity during installation. However, thermal cycling, cracked flashing, and poor ventilation can sometimes trap moisture inside the membrane, causing it to blister under intense heat.
If you have a mechanically attached flat roofing system, strong winds or deck rot can loosen and pop out fasteners, eventually damaging the membrane itself. Membranes can be reattached with new fasteners, but if the cause is rot, you’ll need a replacement if you want to extend the lifespan of your roof.
Soft or sinking spots are a clear sign of wood rot. In these situations, water has already entered and compromised the roofing system to some degree.
It’s hard to define when a replacement is needed over repairs until we’ve completed an assessment. Each of these issues could be an isolated defect that can be easily repaired. Loose seams can be rewelded, punctures and tears can be patched, fasteners can be installed, and drainage issues can be addressed with insulation or extra drains. In some cases, wood rot can even be addressed without a complete replacement.
A replacement is truly only ever needed if the roofing system is already old (so replacing it would be more cost-effective down the road) and the extent of the damage. Widespread shrinking and cracking are going to be harder to address with repairs than a few punctures.
Founded over 25 years ago, Summit Commercial Roofing is a family-owned and -operated commercial flat roofing contractor serving the Metro Detroit area. We specialize in installing PVC and TPO roofing and repairing damaged PVC, TPO, EPDM, and Modified Bitumen roofing systems.
If you’re not sure when your roof was last inspected, or you’ve noticed any signs of damage, contact us today to schedule your free assessment.
Is your property in need of roofing service? Contact Summit Commercial Roofing today at 734-422-8280 or fill out our online form for more information and to schedule a free, no-hassle roof inspection and service estimate. As Southeast Michigan's leader in commercial roofing services, we're standing by to deliver fast, reliable and high-quality roofing service.