Whether they are unforeseen or obvious, roofing problems can always be a pain as well as an expense that can be significant. There are some common roofing issues that occur more often than others and as such there are specific roofing services that are needed more often than others. These issues can be caused by failure that is premature which leads to a service life that is reduced.
While this is not meant to be any sort of a diagnostic guide, it will have four of the most common roofing problems that commercial business owners and professional roofers battle.
1. Moisture and Roof Leaks
Regardless of the type of roof you have, when you have a leak, you have a problem. Leakages in roofs can happen for a variety of reasons. A low-pitch or flat roof called a built-up roof – BUR – can experience roof leaks when there are flashing details that were not properly fastened when they were installed.
When it comes to BURs, whether they are torch applied or hot bituminous roofs, small leaks to large pooling water begin when there’s lack of a proper barrier for moisture installed beneath a coping cap on the parapet walls. Improper flashing installation can be the culprit. Backwater and head laps are an additional bit of mod installation that can allow there to be an infiltration of moisture. This can lead to blisters and leaks which then lead to the failure of the roof.
When the roof is bitumen that has been applied cold, materials that are improperly stored can lead to the infiltration by moisture into the roof and then the insufficient application of an adhesive can lead to roof leaks and poor lamination.
Water damage-related issues can also be the result of single ply membrane roofing has been installed with poor attention to the seams. The membranes should hold the water so the seams need to be heat welded or properly glued.
Also keep an eye open clogged gutters and downspouts, which can wreak havoc as they back up and create standing water on your flat rooftop. A professional roof inspection will also be able to identify mold and mildew, water stain sources
2. Wind
Improperly installed roof flashing causes more than just roof leaks. When it comes to hot bituminous roofs, poorly attached flashing can lead to open laps and seams, ultimately leading to roof shingles, gutters, eaves and other parts of the roof blowing off.
This can also cause a reduction in the resistance that the roof has to punctures and even code violation issues. During the installation process of torch applied and hot bituminous roofs, it’s bimportant to ensure proper embedment of gravel and sufficient use of fasteners in the bottom sheet. Failure to do so may result in negative consequences. These may include issues such as poor roof performance and decreased durability.
The resistance to wind uplift can actually be greatly reduced is the seams have not been adequately cured on mod bit systems that have been cold applied. Seams that have been made with cold adhesive materials don’t have a great integrity until they have been cured. If they happen to encounter rain and wind before they have properly cured, there can be an infiltration by moisture into the roofing system or there can be wind uplift that can be detrimental to the membrane of the roof.
If single ply roofs are not properly adhered to the substrate, they can blow off and billow. Single ply roofs require a bit more to hold them in position and if this is not properly done then the flashings can tent and the membrane is damaged.
Other Windy Concerns
Some other things to consider when it comes to wind are beyond damaged shingles, missing shingles, damaged flashing and even skylights.
Keep an eye on tree branches or sharp objects that make their way to the roof, causing penetrations.
3. Unsatisfactory Workmanship and Poor Installation
Faulty installations dramatically increase the potential for problems with roofing as well as decreasing the life expectancy of the roof. In fact, poor workmanship is one of the most common reasons for there being issues with roofs. BUR roofing systems installation can cause issues when specific preparations are ignored or done improperly. For example, if an area has not been properly cleaned, dried and primed before the roof installation, there will be issues with adhesion.
The mod bituminous systems that are torch applied can begin to have issues if the sheets have not been relaxed before they were installed. The preparation of the materials is highly critical for there to be a quality installation. If the sheets have not been relaxed or even if the temperature is not right then there can be blisters, contraction of the sheets, fish mouths, leaks and wrinkles.
When you are getting quotes for the roofing service cost, be sure that the roofing professionals you are getting quotes from have been properly educated on the right techniques for the specific roof type that they will be installing or working on.
Hire a Professional
It is important to hire a commercial roofing professional for roof replacement or roof repair because they possess the necessary knowledge, expertise, and equipment to ensure that the job is done correctly and safely. Commercial roofing systems are complex and require specialized skills to install properly, as well as knowledge of local building codes and regulations. A professional roofing contractor will have access to high-quality roofing materials and tools, as well as a team of skilled workers who can complete the job efficiently and with minimal disruption to the business operations.
4. Lack of Maintenance
A commercial roof (or any roof, even for homeowners) is a huge investment, so it makes sense to have routine roof inspections performed. By doing so on a regular basis, roofing professionals can identify problems and keep them from escalating, leading to an entire new roof.
Make a Routine
There are certain times of the year it’s best to have a roof maintenance inspection – spring, fall and after any major weather event. Professionals within a reputable roofing company can identify structural damage, issues caused by broken shingles and causes of ice dams or poor ventilation.
Routines could also be stipulated within your commercial roof’s warranty.
TEMA Roofing is Your Roofing Solution
Combat these 4 common roofing issues and more before they turn into an entire new roof project by giving TEMA Roofing Solutions a call.
Our professional roofing experts are ready to help you with prolonging your commercial roof’s life through maintenance and professional installation.
