Have you checked the roof on your commercial building in Effingham, IL, lately? It’s there to protect employees, products, and equipment. However, if it’s damaged or needs replacing, everything inside the building is at risk for damage from leaks through a faulty roof.
Roofs can’t last forever—not even a commercial roof that seems like it can withstand anything. If you haven’t checked the roof in a while or you’re not sure what to look for, we’re here to help!
Protect people and property. Look out for these signs that your commercial roof needs to be replaced.
It’s Old
How old is it? No matter how many more years you planned to get out of the existing roof, an old roof might be at the end of its useful life before you’re ready to let it go.
If it’s the original roof or it’s been twenty years since the last replacement, the roof’s old age is a good sign that it’s time for a new one. At some point, patching holes and making other repairs are no longer enough to keep the roof in excellent condition.
Before spending more money on patches and short-term fixes, replace an aging roof with a new one.
You See Dark Areas or Pooling Water
Does your Effingham, IL building have a flat roof? These structures require proper drainage to keep water from pooling in the corners or low areas of the roof.
If you see dark areas or standing water, that’s a sign of poor drainage. Check the ceiling and look for water stains and evidence of leaks to confirm the roof has started to break down.
With signs of water damage on a flat commercial roof, the best solution is to replace it.
Bubbles Appear
Many commercial roofs have membranes as part of the structure that keeps water out. Without proper maintenance, these materials can bubble or blister with prolonged exposure to heat and moisture. Poor installation and lack of ventilation can also lead to blisters on the roof’s surface.
Without fixing these bubbles right away, they get worse. If you see more blistering than a flat surface, it’s time for a commercial roof replacement.
You Find Holes or Tears
The same membranes that blister can also experience holes or tears. Sometimes repairing bubbles leads to tears in the membrane fabric. Wind and debris can also create tears that lead to water leaks and damage.
Small holes in the roof can cause big problems for your commercial building. Large holes that go beyond the protective membrane can lead to significant damage inside walls and within the building itself. Holes also weaken the integrity of the roof, making it challenging to repair without a complete replacement.
Rot Forms
Rot happens under damp conditions. It weakens the roof when water pools in low spots or areas that sag.
We mentioned that standing water is a sign that the roof is in trouble. When you see it, investigate deeper. After a significant rain, some puddles might form, then quickly disappear as the roof’s drainage system does its job.
However, if pooling water stays for days or weeks, don’t assume the problem is only the water. Check below the puddle’s surface and inspect the roof in that area for rot.
It’s challenging to repair rot on a commercial roof. When you see it, it might be time for a commercial roof company in Effingham, IL, to replace the roof.
You Discover Leaks and Water Damage Inside
Water stains on the ceiling and wet carpets indicate that water comes in from the roof. Repairing drywall and replacing carpet doesn’t resolve the primary problem of a leaky roof that needs replacing.
When employees report puddles in the hallways or brown marks on the ceilings and walls, check the roof for leaks. Commercial roof repairs can be a short-term solution. However, if the problems persist or new leaks form, it’s time for a new roof.
Energy Bills Increase
A well-maintained roof that’s in excellent condition not only protects the building’s interior from rain. The roof also helps reduce energy costs when it functions without leaks, tears, or other damage.
A damaged roof lets outside air in—and inside air out. When your heating and cooling system struggles to maintain the building’s temperature because the roof lets air escape, you’ll experience higher energy bills.
Replacing the roof is an investment, but it also helps reduce utility costs. Over time, the operating budget for your building will benefit from a new roof that keeps energy usage (and expenses) down.
The Roof Sags
You’ll notice this issue from the outside and within the building. A sagging roof can also cause the ceiling to sag (and collapse) inside.
Roof sagging is difficult to repair without a total replacement. The issue goes beyond a low spot or two where water collects on the roof. A sagging roof is a significant sign of structural problems and a risk to anyone working in or around the building.
If the roof sags, it’s time for a new one.
A Storm Causes Damage
Falling tree limbs, high winds, hail, and significant rainfall can cause damage to the roof. With minor damage, repairs can be the right solution. However, if a storm blows structures off the roof or causes a hole with water damage, a replacement could be your only option to return the building to a safe operation.
After a storm, conduct a thorough inspection of the roof. Be careful when walking on a flat roof if you suspect damage.
Protect Your Building With a New Commercial Roof
If you discover one (or several) of these signs, it’s time for a new commercial roof for your building in Effingham, IL. A new roof helps ensure the safety of employees or others who work near your building.
Mid-State Construction & Roofing, Inc. installs and repairs flat, low-slope, single-ply, and metal roof systems for commercial buildings. Contact our experts when you see the signs that it’s time for a new roof.