5 Signs Your Commercial Roof Needs Repair

The commercial roof is an integral part of a business, protecting everything inside from the elements. It also helps control energy bills and improves the appearance of the building.

It’s important to watch for signs of damage, like cracking, blistering, or bubbling, which can indicate trapped moisture. These red flags may worsen if addressed and lead to costly repair or even replacement.

Buckled Ceilings

If you see a large crack in your ceiling that goes across the room or even down the wall, it’s a sign of structural damage. The crack could be caused by something heavy on the floor above, a water leak, or foundation settlement. A commercial roof repair company St Louis, MO should be able to find the source and dry the area.

If a whole section of your ceiling is sagging, it’s a sure sign that the trusses aren’t holding the weight of the drywall and attic insulation. This is often due to undersized drywall that needs to be hung correctly. This type of sagging usually requires new support straps and additional insulation to prevent it from worsening. The good news is that the damage can be repaired, but it’s best to act fast.

Leaks

Whether your commercial roof is made of shingles or a flat roofing membrane, leaks are one of the most obvious signs that you need to have it repaired. Water that leaks through a commercial roof can damage equipment and cause other problems inside the building. Leaks can also lead to mold growth, which is especially dangerous for people with respiratory conditions like asthma.

Commercial buildings with an attic should be inspected regularly to look for leaks. The easiest way to spot a leak is to get up there with a friend and look for water stains on the ceiling or mold stains on the rafters.

Another common sign of a leaky commercial roof is a musty odor throughout the building. These odors indicate that the structural integrity of the roof has been compromised.

Blistering

Blistering is a sign that your roof requires a comprehensive inspection. It is particularly important to identify the cause of blistering and whether it’s due to heat or moisture.

Most blistering is caused by moisture trapped underneath a coating. Moisture can cause the paint to bubble when it expands, resulting in blisters on the roof surface.

Depending on the product used, blistering can impact the performance and life span of your roofing system. Using a product that allows moisture to escape, such as GE Enduris roof coating, can minimize the occurrence of blistering on your roof.

It is recommended to avoid popping blisters as it exposes the raw skin underneath, leaving it vulnerable to infection. Let them heal naturally and cover them as they do.

Clogged Downspouts

Clogged gutters can lead to water flowing over the gutter’s sides, which can cause damage to the roof, siding, and foundation. Clogged gutters are typically caused by an accumulation of debris such as leaves, twigs, tar from roof shingles, pine needles, or sludge that builds up in the bends and elbows of downspouts.

A clogged downspout is easy to fix. Ensure you have gloves, safety glasses, and a ladder before beginning. First, remove the downspout extension and then the debris from the bottom of the pipe. You can also tap the downspout firmly with a tool handle or stick. Work your way up the length of the downspout, being careful not to leave any dents in the pipe.

Mold

Mold is a sure sign that you need to call for a roof repair right away. Whether you notice dark stains on the walls or ceiling or the musty smell of mold, it indicates that your roof is leaking and needs to be repaired.

Checking for cracks and bubbles in your commercial roof is another important step. Blistering and cracks are warning signs that your roof membrane retains air or moisture, which can cause more serious problems later on.

Hidden mold can be found on the backside of drywall, wallpaper, or paneling, underneath carpets and pads, behind ductwork, and more. Moldy, musty odors indicate that you need to get your commercial roof repaired. Mold usually grows in areas that are wet.