The US has experienced over 300 climate disasters that have destroyed residential and business spaces alike. After storms and fires, businesses struggle with the financial burden of making repairs.
If your business survived a recent storm, inspect the roof as soon as you can. Even if there hasn’t been a disaster for a few months, check to see what lasting effects past storms might have left behind.
Replace the roof if the structure is compromised. It’s a costly endeavor, but it’s well worth it to ensure the security of your staff and the longevity of your company.
If you’re not sure whether you need a new roof, here are some signs that it’s time for a replacement.
Peeling Ceiling
A ceiling that’s crumbling might be a sign of a water leak in your roof. When paint is exposed to too much moisture, it will peel.
There could be a crack in your roof that’s not visible from below. This crack could let in water from rain and snow storms.
It’s a good idea to have your roof inspected by a professional to determine what’s causing the peeling. If a contractor can’t fix the problem with a roof patch, it’s time for a new roof.
Cracks
Cracks don’t always indicate that there’s something wrong with your roof system. However, if you notice cracks and other problems, such as leaking or a foul smell, call a roofing company.
Cracks are a sign of structural damage to your roof. This type of damage can cause problems with your building’s insulation and ventilation. It will lead to higher energy bills if you take too long to address the problem.
Leaks
Leaks are the most obvious sign that your commercial roof needs repair. A single leak may not be a big deal, but it’s important to keep an eye out for what could turn into a major issue.
If your roof is leaking in multiple spots, then the structure isn’t as strong as it should be. This can lead to other problems, such as mold and mildew growth. You need to take action immediately.
Discoloration Around the Air Vents
If the area around your air vents is brown or black, it means that mold is growing on them. Mold can cause health issues for those who work in your building and live nearby. You may also notice discoloration around other areas of your roof, such as the skylights.
Mold is a serious problem that you should take care of right away. If left untreated, mold can spread throughout your building and cause other people to become sick.
Age
The roof of a commercial building can last up to 50 years. However, many of them need to be replaced after about 30 years because of wear and tear.
Confirm when your roof was installed. Then you can determine when it will be time to replace it. If your roof is over 20 years old, you may need to look into commercial roof replacement.
Moisture in the Attic
If your commercial building uses an attic for storage, inspect it for moisture and water damage. Leaks in this area mean that water has gotten between the shingles on your roof.
The attic traps moisture, which causes mold and mildew to grow. If you have water in your attic or notice any unusual smells coming from there, contact a roofing company because it’s time to replace the roof.
Sagging
If your roof is sagging, the underlay has lost its ability to support itself. Several things could cause this problem, including poor installation and faulty materials.
A contractor will be able to inspect your roof and tell you the source of the sagging. Click for more information on how they might be able to help.
Missing Shingles
The shingles are the most important part of your roof because they protect you from the elements. If these shingles are missing, then your roof is no longer watertight. This means that you will see an increase in leaks and water damage.
Light Coming Through the Roof
Have a look at your roof during sunset to see if any light is shining through from outside. If so, the roofing materials are thin or there are holes in the roof. In either case, the roof needs to be replaced.
If the light is coming in, it’s a sign that your roof won’t provide protection from the elements in the long run. The roof will be prone to water damage and leaks.
Missing Granules
Climate, time, and the quality of shingles all affect how long they will last before losing granules. When shingles lose their granules, they decay faster. If most of the shingles are missing their protective granules, replace your roof.
Curled Shingles
Curled shingles signal a problem with the felt underlay of your roof. The felt underlay is the layer that protects your roof from water damage and leaks. When this layer is wet, your shingles peel back.
They won’t peel all at once. However, when you notice a few shingles peeling back, get a repair estimate from a roofing contractor.
Damaged Flashing
Flashing is the metal that seals roof joints around chimneys, skylights, and vents. Flashing diverts water from the roof before it can cause damage. It provides a waterproof seal that protects against leaks.
When the flashing wears down, you’ll see pieces of flashing on the floors and in the gutters. You’ll also notice more leaks from places where the flashing used to be.
Replace the Roof of Your Business Building
If any of these problems sound familiar, replace the roof of your building.
Many types of roof damage can cause leaks. Leaks are dangerous because they can lead to mold growth, which is unhealthy for employees and customers. It also lowers the value of your property.
Get in touch with a professional roofing company for a quote. While you wait for them to respond, look through our business and home sections for tips on how to fix the damage that’s already been done.
