Roofing is an expensive investment. Often, due to the hassles involved in maintenance and upkeep of commercial roofs, property owners take their roofing solutions for granted. Detecting problems early helps property owners reduce expenses involved in emergency roofing repairs or complete roof replacement. There are several factors that influence the life of commercial roofing such as design, installation, maintenance, usage, weather, and foot traffic, among others. At SRG Roofing we see many problems that can plague your roof, most of which can be easily dealt with through quality work and planning. So, here are five problems and solutions you should be aware of.
Problem No. 1
Roof Leaks and Moisture
Whether your roof is old or new, if it leaks you have a problem. Different roofs can have different reasons behind leaks. For example, in built-up roofs (BUR), 95 percent of leak problems occurs at flashing details- when the membrane is terminated or interrupted. Whereas in hot bituminous and torch-applied modified bitumen roofs, leaks are a common problem due to lack of a proper moisture barrier underneath the coping cap on parapet walls; single-ply membrane roof leaks occur when the rooing has poor seams. Inadequate heal laps or backwater laps are other roofing problems that allow moisture infiltration.
Solution
A proactive preventative roof maintenance plan can eliminate or minimize roof leaks in a significant manner. All you need to do is hire a professional roofing contractor.
Problem No. 2
Blow-offs, Tenting, and Billowing
Commercial roof owners not only face roof leak problems, but several other issues that rear their ugly heads in the course of time. Blow-offs, tenting, and billowing are often the outcome of non-adherence of the roof to the substrate or improperly installed flashing. Poorly installed hot bituminous roofs with poor flashing experience open seams and laps, leading to blow-offs, less puncture resistance, and code issues. Hot bituminous and torch applied mod bit roof systems also develop leaks due to lack of fasteners in the base sheet.
Solution
Ask your commercial roofing contractor to provide you the proper specification and building code for your particular area when installing a new roof.
Problem No.3
Poor Workmanship and Faulty Installation
Poor installation renders roofing vulnerable to various roofing issues and also impacts its lifespan. Poor workmanship is the primary reason behind poor installation and various other roofing problems. Adhesion problems are the outcome of inadequate cleaning, dryness and lack of proper prime before installation. The performance of torch applied mod bit roofing systems can be compromised if roofing experts do not relax the sheets before installation.
Solution
Ensure that the roofing contractor and crew you hire possess relevant experience and are familiar with installation techniques specific to the roof they are installing. Check out their previous projects and client reviews to ascertain this.
Problem No. 4
Ponding Water
Another common roofing problem in almost every type of roofing solution is ponding water. If the roof is resistant to any such problem, it can perform to its full potential. UV rays and ponding water are a deadly combination and have adverse effects on BUR and asphalt-based mod bit roofs. Also, improper mopping during hot bituminous installation can produce voids in the membrane and also block drains causing ponding water.
Solution
Adding a slope with tapered insulation during installation can effectively prevent water ponding.
Problem No.5
Shrinkage and Cracking
Thermal shocking is another common problem in commercial roofs. EPDM roofs are vulnerable to shrinkage, and therefore, need the utmost attention. If you see a ballasted membrane pulling off the flashing, your roof has a shrinkage problem or it could be surface cracking of an uncured membrane
Solution
Employ a professional roofing contractor to inspect your roofing system for any signs of shrinkage or cracking at least once a year.
Wrapping up
As the roof ages, the likelihood of problems increases. Ensuring proper installation, using quality materials, and adhering to a consistent roof maintenance regime can help you expand the lifespan of your commercial roof. Also, you need to ensure that the roofing contractor you hire for your roof repair and maintenance is certified and conveys proper information regarding the repair and preventive measures they undertake.
