Roof leaks are a common problem in commercial buildings and the causes can vary from physical damage to plumbing issues to materials used and the quality of the installation.
Commercial roofs are more commonly flat or low-sloped, which can contribute to leaks since the water does not shed off the roof quickly. When water sits on a flat roof for an extended period, it can find its way into the tiniest of cracks or openings, leading to leaks. A large percentage of commercial roof leaks can be attributed to damaged flashing. Flashing is installed at the exterior edges of the roof and at all HVAC, electrical, and plumbing penetrations.
Other causes of commercial roof leaks can be attributed to damage caused by:
- Improper installation where seams join and can crack or peel
- Neglect
- Aging and deterioration
- Clogging
- Rooftop equipment such as vents, pipes, skylights
- Poor weather conditions such as wind, rain, hail, snow, or ice
Obviously, the older your roof is (and the higher number of penetrations), the higher risk of roof leaks. But a regularly maintained roof will give more life to your roof. As a rule of thumb, commercial roof inspections should be conducted twice per year for all your commercial buildings. It’s recommended to schedule roof inspections in the spring and fall before the hot summer and cold winter weather.
If your commercial roof isn’t regularly inspected, issues can go undetected for months before you notice that there’s a problem. Don’t wait until it’s too late. Contact our ASI Roofing team today to get your seasonal inspection scheduled! Click here or call 614-873-2057.