Common Commercial Roof Problems and How to Solve Them
When you run a business in Colorado, you know that the weather isn’t always on your side. From heavy snow in the winter to hailstorms in the spring and summer, your commercial property takes a beating. One of the most vulnerable parts of any building is the roof. Even though commercial roofs are designed to last, they still face several issues over time. If you don’t address these problems early, they can lead to expensive repairs or even the need for a full roof replacement.
Let’s explore some of the most common commercial roof problems and, more importantly, how you can solve them before they get out of hand.
Leaks: The Most Common Issue
Leaks are one of the most common issues that commercial property owners deal with when it comes to their roofs. They can happen for several reasons—storms, wear and tear, poor installation, or even debris that damages the roof’s surface. Once a leak starts, it can quickly get worse, leading to water damage inside the building, mold growth, and even electrical problems if water reaches certain areas.
In a state like Colorado, where intense weather is common, it’s essential to catch leaks as early as possible. Sol Vista Roofing is a trusted name for many businesses in Denver and the surrounding areas. They provide expert inspections and repairs to ensure that minor leaks don’t turn into major disasters. Their team understands how quickly the weather can affect a roof, especially after hailstorms or heavy snowfalls, and they act fast to protect your property.
You can prevent most leaks by scheduling regular roof inspections. During these inspections, look for water stains on ceilings or walls, sagging spots, or cracks in the roofing material. If you spot these signs, it’s time to act before the problem escalates.
2. Ponding Water: A Drainage Problem
Ponding water is another common issue on commercial roofs, especially those with flat or low slopes. After heavy rainfall or snowmelt, water can collect in certain areas if the roof isn’t draining properly. Over time, this standing water can damage the roof’s surface, weaken the material, and eventually cause leaks.
The key to solving ponding water issues is improving your roof’s drainage system. Start by making sure that all gutters, downspouts, and drains are free of debris. Blocked drains are one of the main causes of ponding water. If you notice that water is still pooling on the roof after clearing the drains, you may have low spots on the surface. These can be fixed by adding more drainage points or adjusting the slope of the roof to encourage water flow.
If ponding water is left untreated, it can lead to more serious issues, such as roof collapse, especially under the weight of snow and ice in Colorado’s winters.
3. Blistering and Cracking: Signs of Aging
As commercial roofs age, they naturally start to show wear and tear. One of the most common signs of this is blistering and cracking. These issues usually happen when the roof is exposed to extreme temperature changes, which is common in Colorado. The sun’s UV rays can break down roofing materials over time, causing them to weaken, crack, or form blisters.
Blistering occurs when air or moisture gets trapped under the roofing material, creating raised bubbles on the surface. While small blisters aren’t always a major concern, they can grow and eventually burst, leaving the roof vulnerable to leaks. Cracking is also a sign that the roofing material is becoming brittle and may need repairs or replacement.
The best way to handle blistering and cracking is to repair small sections of the roof before the damage spreads. If the problem is widespread, you might need to replace larger sections or even the entire roof.
4. Roof Punctures: Damage from Foot Traffic or Debris
Roof punctures are another common problem, especially if there is a lot of foot traffic on the roof. Maintenance workers or contractors might accidentally drop tools, causing punctures or tears in the roofing material. Similarly, debris from trees or nearby buildings can be blown onto the roof during storms, leading to damage.
Even a small puncture can cause leaks if it isn’t addressed right away. Water can seep through the hole and lead to bigger problems over time. If your commercial property is in an area prone to high winds or storms, it’s important to regularly check for punctures or tears after severe weather.
5. Roof Shrinkage: A Problem with Older Roofs
Shrinkage is another issue that affects older commercial roofs, especially those made from materials like EPDM (rubber roofing). Over time, the roofing material can shrink, causing cracks, tears, or gaps, particularly around the edges, seams, or flashing.
Shrinkage is often caused by exposure to extreme weather conditions, including the hot sun and cold temperatures. In Colorado, where temperatures can fluctuate dramatically, this problem is more common.
To prevent shrinkage, regular inspections are key. If you notice that the roof is starting to pull away from the edges or seams, it’s important to address the issue right away. In some cases, replacing the affected sections of the roof can prevent the problem from getting worse.
While commercial roofs are designed to handle a lot, they aren’t invincible. Regular inspections, timely repairs, and proper maintenance are the keys to preventing common problems and extending the life of your roof.
By addressing issues like leaks, ponding water, and cracks early, you can avoid costly repairs and ensure your commercial property stays protected, no matter what Colorado’s weather throws your way.
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