Roof leaks can be a major headache and result in expensive damage if left unattended. You may not realize your roof has sprung a leak until it's too late and the damage has already been done. Commercial roof leaks are tricky because of the large sizes of these roofs. Here are a few common reasons commercial roofs tend to leak and how to deal with them when they happen:
1. Aging Building Components
As roofs age, their components are subject to weather deterioration, including shingles, flashings, and ventilation pipes. The result? They may fail to block out water or let it in where it's not supposed to be.
The best remedy for this is pre-emptive action. Regular commercial roof inspections will help you catch problems before they become major ones. If you find a problem, consider replacing it before it fails; a new flashing here or there can make all the difference.
2. Poor Roof Drainage
The low pitch of commercial roofs makes them vulnerable to drainage problems. Water ponding is especially a common problem in roofs where leveling was not achieved. It leads to water seeping into your building and eventually causing leaks. Roof leak repairs for this problem involve achieving a proper pitch to allow water to drain down the roof.
Also, check your gutters, downspouts, and drains for clogs or debris causing water to pool up on your roof. Ensure there are no dips or depressions in your gutters or downspouts that would cause water to pool rather than straight down into your drain system.
3. Penetration and Puncture Damage
Falling debris and wind can cause punctures in your commercial roof—and even if these penetrations aren't big enough to see from below, water can easily seep through tiny holes and joints in your commercial roof. Penetration and puncture damage must be immediately addressed because they form good paths for water leakage.
4. Improper and Failing Seals
Over time, cracks and wear in flashing and seals can allow water to penetrate your roof. Seals will erode if they are not properly maintained or replaced as necessary. If you have an older roof, seals may need to be replaced to stop leaks from occurring. Your roofer should document flashing and failing seals and replace them ASAP.
5. Membrane Wind Uplift
Strong winds can cause further failure at points of weakness like the seams and where the membrane meets structures like roof equipment and parapet walls. The winds will make gaps when they lift the membrane, and these present gaps paths for water leaks. Inspect the roof to identify these weak points for resealing.
Your commercial roof will develop problems at one point, but you can prevent major damage with regular roof inspections. Water leaks should also be addressed immediately. Call a roofer such as Twin City Roofing Construction Specialists, Inc. for roof leak repairs ASAP and safeguard your business assets.
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