Commercial Roofing: 4 Common Problems And How To Address Them

Most business owners don't give much thought to their roof beyond its appearance. It's not until a problem arises that they realize the importance of regular roof maintenance.

Harsh weather conditions can take their toll on the most well-maintained roofs, so it's essential to be aware of the most common commercial roof problems.

Address issues before they become too costly or dangerous by knowing what to look for. In this post, Xpress Exterior Design looks at some of the most common commercial roofing issues that can pop up and provide tips on dealing with them.

# 1: Leaks

One of the most common problems commercial roofs face is leaks. Leaks can be caused by various factors, including storms, broken gutters, and cracked shingles. If you catch a leak, take action immediately. The longer you wait, the more damage to your roof and building.

How to Deal with it?

Call in a professional roofing contractor. They'll be able to identify the source of the leak and make the necessary repairs.

# 2: Ponding water

Another common problem commercial roofs experience is ponding water. It happens when water collects on your roof and doesn't drain properly. Ponding water can damage your roof and lead to leaks, so it's important to address it as soon as you notice it.

How to Deal with it?

The best way to deal with ponding water is to have a professional roofing contractor install a drainage system. It will help ensure that water is properly drained from your roof and doesn't have a chance to pond.

# 3: Ice dams

Ice dams are a severe problem for commercial roofs in cold weather climates. They occur when snow and ice melt on your roof and then refreeze, forming a dam that prevents water from draining correctly.

It causes water to back up under your shingles and leads to leaks. Ice dams can also damage your gutters and downspouts.

How to Deal with it?

Check if your roof is adequately insulated and ventilated to prevent ice dams. You should also clear snow and ice from your gutters and downspouts regularly. If you already have an ice dam, remove it carefully to avoid damaging your roof. You can use a heat tape or ice melt product to help melt the ice.

Alternatively, you can employ a professional roofing contractor to remove the ice dam.

# 4: Sagging

Sagging is one of the most apparent signs of a problem with your commercial roof. Many factors: can cause it.

• Poor drainage
• Insufficient insulation
• Excess weight on the roof (e.g., from snow)
  
  

How to Deal with it?

If you notice your roof is sagging, taking action immediately is important. Determine the cause of the problem. You'll need to clear any debris blocking the drains and ensure they function.

If the problem is caused by excess weight on the roof, you'll need to remove the weight as soon as possible. It may require hiring a professional roofing contractor to safely remove snow and ice from your roof.

Be prepared for a roofing emergency by understanding the most common problems commercial roofs experience. By understanding what to examine and how to address these issues, business owners can save time and money in the long run.

If you require a new commercial roof in Towson, MD, our team at Xpress Exterior Design is here to help. We offer free estimates, and our experts are always happy to answer any questions you may have about your commercial roofing system.

Contact us today to get started!