Navigating Commercial Roof Repair: A Business Owner’s Guide

According to The University of Maryland, annual rainfall is increasing in the state and severe storms are becoming more and more frequent. These changing weather patterns are making commercial roofs more susceptible to damage and therefore increasing demand for commercial roof repair.

Commercial roof repair is essential to making sure your building is safe and secure. Your property’s roof serves as the first line of defense against weather and other elements, and any damage or deterioration can lead to major issues if not addressed quickly. Here’s everything you need to know about commercial roof repair.

The Importance of Commercial Roof Repair

The roof is one of the most vulnerable parts of a commercial building as it is constantly exposed to environmental stressors like sunlight, wind, rain, snow, and temperature fluctuations. Over time, these stressors begin to take a toll on your roof in the form of damage. When these issues arrive, prompt commercial roof repair is important to make sure the structure of your building is stable and prevents you from more extensive and costly damage in the long run.

Common Types of Commercial Roof Problems

It is essential to be able to identify the different types of roof damage that you may experience. Commercial roofs can experience many different issues for many different reasons. These are a few of the most common problems.

Water Damage

Water damage and leaks are some of the most common types of commercial roof problems and can significantly impact roof lifespan. Roof leaks can result from a damaged membrane, flashing, or holes in the structure of the roof. If you don’t address water damage quickly, then you may be at risk for mold growth, which can put your safety at risk.

Ponding Water

If you have a flat or low-slope roof, then you may experience ponding water. This is when water accumulates on your roof and does not drain properly. If water sits for too long in a certain spot, it can damage your roofing materials and compromise the roof’s integrity.

Poor Installation

If your property’s roof was improperly installed to begin with, then it can lead to many major problems. Poor installation can sometimes be fixed with a roof repair; however, sometimes, you may need to undergo a full roof replacement.

Membrane Damage

The roofing membrane works to prevent the build-up of condensation and is often used on flat and low-sloped roofs. If the roofing membrane is damaged by UV rays, weathering, or foot traffic, then your roof may not be able to correctly repel water and protect your building.

Lifted Shingles

High winds and severe weather can cause your shingles or other roofing materials to blow off or become lifted. Lifted or blown-off shingles can hinder their ability to protect your roof and should be fixed immediately.

Understanding the Commercial Roof Repair Process

Once you have identified a problem with your commercial roof, you will want to get in touch with a professional roofer. The roofer will first conduct a thorough inspection to identify the extent of the roof damage. After the inspection, the roofer will then develop the best plan of action to fix the issue.

For simple roof repairs, your roofer will select the proper materials needed to get the job done. Then, they will execute the repair plan, ensuring that each identified issue is addressed with precision and expertise. This might involve removing damaged materials, applying patches or sealants, and guaranteeing proper adhesion.

If you need a full roof replacement, then it is essential to choose a durable material. Asphalt shingles and metal are two of the most popular options for commercial roofs. According to NerdWallet, asphalt shingles last anywhere from 20-25 years while metal roofing lasts anywhere from 40 to 75 years.

Once the job is complete, a quality control check will be done to ensure that the work meets industry standards and that the roof is restored to its optimal condition.

Preventive Roof Maintenance Tips

After your roof is fixed, it is important to perform preventive maintenance to keep it in good shape. This allows you to identify and address any potential issues before they escalate. Here are a few key elements of a strong preventive maintenance plan.

• Regular roof inspections: Schedule routine inspections once or twice a year (or after severe weather) to identify early signs of damage or wear
• Clearing debris: Make sure your roof is free of debris like leaves, branches, and dirt
• HVAC maintenance: If you have an HVAC unit on the roof, then ensure it is properly maintained and secured
• Gutter care: Make sure your gutters are clear and free of debris
• Documentation: Ensure that you are maintaining thorough documentation of inspections, repairs, and any changes made to your commercial roof

The Benefits of Professional Commercial Roof Repair Services

If you are experiencing roofing issues, then hiring professional repair services is never a bad idea. Choosing professional commercial roof repair companies over a DIY approach offers many key advantages. Roofing professionals will bring expertise and experience to accurately assess and address both visible and underlying issues.

Professionals also have access to high-quality materials and advanced tools that enhance the durability and effectiveness of any repairs that are made. Attempting to fix your roof on your own is also a safety risk. Professional roofers are equipped with industry-standard safety gear and training, which will minimize the risk of accidents.

Also, the efficiency of using a professional company will reduce the downtime for your business. They will also provide you with valuable insights and preventive maintenance strategies to prevent any more downtime in the future.

Let Us Help You With Your Roof Repair Needs

Keeping your commercial roof in good shape should be a top priority for your business. If you notice anything out of the ordinary, then don’t hesitate to call a roof repair company.

If you are in need of commercial roof repair services, then look no further than Landmark Roofing. Partners Artie Hendricks and Rob Calhan have assembled a team of skilled and conscientious friends that makes Landmark Roofing the best of the best. Contact us or fill out our online form to get started with a free estimate today.