Common Commercial Roof Problems
As a growing commercial roofing contractor, you likely encounter various roof issues in your projects. Understanding and troubleshooting common commercial roof problems is key to maintaining high client satisfaction and long-lasting roofing systems. Let’s explore some of the most frequent issues you’ll come across and the best approaches for addressing them.
1. Blisters and Bubbles
One of the most common commercial roof issues is blistering or bubbling. This happens when moisture or air gets trapped between layers of the roofing material. Blisters are often found in flat roofing systems like Built-Up Roofing (BUR) and Modified Bitumen roofs.
How to Fix Blisters:
Assessment: Not all blisters require immediate repair. If the blister is small and not showing signs of leakage, it can often be left alone. However, if the blister is large or has popped, it will need attention.
Repair: Carefully cut open the blister using a utility knife, being cautious not to penetrate through the lower layers. Allow the trapped air or moisture to escape and dry the area. Apply roofing cement under the blistered material and press it back into place, sealing the edges with a strong adhesive or roofing cement.
2. Ponding Water (Water Pooling)
Water pooling on a flat roof is another frequent problem in commercial roofing systems. Poor drainage, uneven roof surfaces, or blocked drains can cause water to accumulate, leading to leaks, structural damage, and reduced roofing lifespan over time.
How to Fix Water Pooling:
Improve Drainage: First, inspect the roof for debris blocking the drains, gutters, or scuppers. Keeping the drainage system clean can often solve the issue.
Install Tapered Insulation: In more severe cases, adding tapered insulation beneath the roofing material can help direct water toward the drains.
Consider Installing Additional Drains: To prevent further damage, additional roof drains or scuppers might be necessary for larger flat roofs with frequent pooling issues.
3. Punctures and Tears
Punctures are common, particularly on EPDM, TPO, or PVC roofing systems. Foot traffic dropped tools, or weather-related debris can cause punctures or tears that expose the underlying layers of the roof, leading to leaks and water damage.
How to Fix Roof Punctures:
Temporary Patch: If the damage is minimal, applying a patch with roof sealant can provide a temporary fix. Ensure the surface is clean and dry before applying the patch to avoid adhesion issues.
Permanent Repair: For long-term repairs, replace the damaged section of the membrane with a new patch. First, clean and prime the area, then cut a patch slightly larger than the puncture and adhere it with an appropriate bonding adhesive or welding system, depending on the roof type.
4. Flashing Failures
Flashing protects roof edges, chimneys, skylights, and HVAC systems from water infiltration. However, due to poor installation or weather conditions, flashing can corrode, separate from the roof, or become misaligned over time. This leads to leaks, one of the most common commercial roof problems.
How to Fix Flashing Issues:
Inspect and Realign: Check for gaps between the flashing and the roof surface. The simplest solution is to realign or refasten loose flashing.
Replace Corroded Flashing: If the metal flashing is rusted or severely damaged, it must be replaced. Use new flashing material that fits appropriately and ensures a watertight seal with roofing cement or sealant.
5. Roof Shrinkage
Roof shrinkage is a common issue in EPDM roofs. Over time, the rubber membrane may contract due to temperature fluctuations or improper installation. This shrinkage pulls the edges from the roof’s perimeter, leading to gaps, tears, or uplifted flashing.
How to Fix Roof Shrinkage:
Reattach and Reinforce: Reattach the membrane to the roof’s perimeter for minor shrinkage using appropriate adhesives or fasteners.
Install a New Membrane: If the shrinkage is extensive, it may be necessary to replace the roof membrane entirely. To avoid future shrinkage, ensure proper installation techniques, including stretching and fastening the material.
6. Roof Membrane Leaks
Roof membrane leaks are common in commercial roofs, especially when seams, punctures, or worn-out areas develop over time. Membrane leaks often start small but can cause significant damage if left unaddressed.
How to Fix Roof Membrane Leaks:
Locate the Leak: Finding the source of a leak can sometimes be the most challenging part. Scrutinize the membrane for signs of punctures, tears, or open seams.
Repair the Damage: Clean the affected area and patch the membrane with a compatible roofing material. For single-ply roofs like TPO or PVC, hot-air welding may be required to bond the patch securely.
7. UV Damage and Aging
Constant exposure to the sun’s UV rays can degrade roofing materials, particularly membranes, over time. UV damage leads to brittleness, cracking, and reduced roof performance, especially on older roofs.
How to Fix UV Damage:
Apply Roof Coatings: Roof coatings act as a reflective layer, protecting the roof from UV rays and reducing heat absorption. Regularly applying a reflective coating can extend the life of the roof.
Replace Worn Membranes: If the roof is extensively damaged due to UV exposure, replacing the membrane or re-roofing may be necessary.
Conclusion
Understanding these common commercial roof issues and how to fix them will set you apart as a reliable contractor who delivers quality results. Remember, regular roof inspections and preventative maintenance are critical to catching minor problems before they become costly. By addressing these issues promptly and professionally, you’ll ensure your clients have durable, long-lasting commercial roofing systems, enhancing your reputation and growing your business.
By mastering the solutions to these problems, your team will be well-prepared to tackle any roofing challenges and provide excellent service. This will ensure satisfied clients and a stellar reputation in the competitive world of commercial roofing.
