Roofs are a crucial part of every building. They provide insulation, protection from the elements, and so much more. While your average roof is sturdy, it’s not invincible, and chances are, it’ll sustain damage at some point during its long life. To keep small problems from turning major, it’s crucial to keep an eye out for potential problems with your roof and have them fixed ASAP when they do occur.
To help you stay on top of potential problems, we’ll go over eight signs your commercial roof needs to be restored. If you notice one or more of these signs, pair with a professional restorer right away to find a fix.
Skyrocketing Energy Costs
Are your monthly energy expenses unusually high? The culprit could be your roof. Your roof is supposed to act as an insulating feature that traps heated or cooled air inside your building. But if there are cracks, holes, or other damage to your roof, this air can escape. To compensate for this lost air, your A/C has to work harder, driving up your bills. If you’re losing money from your energy bills, hire a professional restorer to take a look at your roof. Hiring them to fix your roof will cost much less than your inflated bills long term!It’s Up There in Age
Depending on your roof’s material, size, and the climate, it will last anywhere between 10 to 70 years. If your roof is up there in age, it will be more prone to damage and other failures. You should have it inspected regularly if you want to keep it in good health. With older roofs, a lack of maintenance is devastating and can quickly result in damage that can only be solved with a full roof replacement.Unusual Smells
Does your building smell like mold or mildew? Your first assumption may be that there’s something awry with the plumbing. But what if we told you the source of that dank odor could be your roof? When water enters your roof, it becomes trapped in a narrow, dark, and warm space, conditions that are conducive to mold and mildew growth. Mold and mildew can affect the structural integrity of your building and cause health problems for visitors and employees. If you suspect a mold problem, you’ll want to get a roof inspector and mold remediator out to your property as soon as you can.Pools and Puddles of Water
It’s not unusual for water to pool on your roof after a heavy storm, but if these pools persist for several days, you may need to seek out a new drainage solution. Pooling water puts extra stress on your roof and can cause problems, like bubbling, leaking, and sagging. In rare circumstances, pooled water can even lead to total roof collapse. In a similar vein, if you notice water spots cropping up inside your building, that’s a sign your roof is leaking due to ponding or physical damage. Moisture problems can destroy the structure of your building and can also encourage mold growth, creating an unsafe and unhealthy environment for everyone inside. If your roof has water problems, have them addressed by a professional posthaste.Bubbles and Blisters
If you notice bubbles and blisters on your commercial roof, that’s not a good sign. Bubbles and blisters occur when moisture becomes trapped beneath the roofing materials. When the water evaporates, it creates pockets of air that give your roof a pocked texture. While their name makes them sound innocuous, bubbles can cause severe damage if left unchecked, as they make it easier for moisture to penetrate the roof. Poor installation is the most common cause of bubbles and blisters, but fortunately, you don’t need to install a whole new roof to fix them. When caught early, a professional restorer can cut away the damaged area and apply new membrane material in its place. Once restored, your roof should look and function as good as new.Worn and Torn Flashing
Flashing is a thin material placed near walls or dormers to prevent moisture buildup. If your roof’s flashing is damaged in any way, water and debris can sneak through gaps in the flashing and cause your roof to slowly deteriorate. Get damaged flashing repaired as soon as possible so you can prevent water, debris, and pests from entering your building and wreaking havoc.Visible Damage
If your roof is visibly damaged in any way, it may be time to call a restoration company. Common forms of roof damage that need to be addressed include punctures, cracks, dents, loose or broken material, discolored material, and shifting. While small scratches and dents may not seem like huge deals, if you leave them be, they’ll only get worse over time. It’s best to address minor problems early before they balloon into something bigger and costlier to fix.Clogged Drains
If you notice a lack of water dripping from your downspouts after a period of rain, they may be occluded. Twigs, leaves, and other debris can lodge inside your spouts and clog them, which prevents water from flowing though; and when water can’t flow freely, it pools. Over time, pooling moisture can result in bubbling and other issues with your roof. As you can see, there’s a wide assortment of problems that commercial roofs often face. Fortunately, by keeping an eye out for these signs your commercial roof needs to be restored and taking fast action when you notice something out of the ordinary, you can keep your roof in good condition for many years to come. If your commercial roof is in need of aid, get in touch with Armour Roof Co. With years of experience in commercial roof restoration and a commitment to open, honest communication, we’re one of the most reliable teams in Omaha when it comes to dealing with roofs. Contact us today to learn more about our services or to get a quote. We can help with commercial roof installation, restoration, coating, and more—whatever your roofing needs are, our trustworthy and talented team can handle them.
