At some point, repairs won’t be enough to rectify your commercial property’s roof damage, which is why business owners should know when to replace a commercial roof. The best way to tell is by noting specific signs that tell you it’s definitely time for a new roofing system. As a top commercial roofing company in OKC, Maupin Roofing has put together the ten most common signs to look out for so you know when it’s time to give us a call!
1. Age of the Roof
Most commercial roofs have a set lifespan, and once they hit that limit, their performance is noticeably affected. For instance:
TPO roofing: 15-20 years
EPDM (rubber) roofing: 25-30 years
Modified bitumen: 20 years
Built-up roofing (BUR): 20-30 years
Metal roofing: 30-45 years
If your commercial roof has reached or surpassed these numbers, it’s smart to start planning for a replacement. You might not see obvious issues yet, but old roofs can develop issues quietly. For example, leaks, poor insulation, and structural damage aren’t always visible or noticeable until they’re in the worst stages.
2. Frequent Repairs
One or two repairs a year is normal, but if leaks, punctures, or other issues are becoming a regular occurrence, that’s a sign you shouldn’t ignore. Constant repairs not only add up in cost but also indicate that the roofing system is failing. Instead of patching up problems again and again, investing in a new roof can be a better long-term investment.
3. Daylight Through the Roof Boards
Seeing sunlight shining through the roof boards from inside your building? That’s a clear indication that your roof’s integrity needs some work. Specifically, it means there are gaps or holes that need to be addressed as soon as possible to protect your commercial building from severe weather. If you’re dealing with a severe issue, a full roof replacement is your best bet.
4. Visible Damage
Take a look at your existing roof. If you find any of the following signs, it could mean it’s time for a new commercial roof:
Blistering or bubbling: This happens when moisture gets trapped under the roofing material, causing bubbles to appear. It’s a common sign that your roof has been compromised.
Extensive rust: Metal roofs with extensive rust, to the point that it affects the entire roof system’s performance, means your roof might experience even further damage if it’s not addressed immediately.
Sagging: If parts of your roof appear to dip or sag, it could mean your commercial property has structural issues that need immediate attention.
Cracks or splits: These can develop over time due to weathering and can lead to roof leaks.
Loose or missing shingles: Shingles, tiles, or other roofing components that are missing or loose expose your building to damaging weather conditions.
Getting a professional roofer to inspect these issues will help you understand whether you just need a repair or a roof replacement.
5. Water Damage and Roof Leaks
If your commercial roof is doing its job, then you shouldn’t be dealing with ongoing leaks, water stains, or musty odors inside your building. But once water starts getting through, it’s not stopping anytime soon. If you don’t address the issue as soon as possible, you’ll be experiencing problems like persistent leaks and moisture damage. This is especially likely if you have a flat roof because, unlike steep slope roofs which naturally direct rainwater toward the gutters, flat roofs are more prone to leaks and water damage due to water pooling on the surface.
Some leaks and water damage issues are repairable. But if you’ve had these leaks for a long time now and it has already caused significant damage throughout your property, the roofing system itself might need a full replacement for better and longer-lasting functionality.
6. Increased Energy Bills
Old or damaged roofs lose their insulating ability, meaning hot air sneaks in during the summer, and heat escapes during the winter. That forces your heating or air conditioning system to work harder, which drives up your electricity usage.
Signs that your roof is killing your energy efficiency include:
Your building is always too hot or too cold, no matter how much you adjust the thermostat
Your cooling or heating system runs almost constantly
Your electricity bills are higher than they used to be
A new commercial roof with modern, energy-efficient materials like TPO or metal roofing can lower your electricity bills by quite a lot. Maupin Roofing offers commercial roofing in OKC, so don’t hesitate to reach out if you’re interested in a full roof replacement or upgrade!
7. Roof Membrane Issues
For flat roofs or low-slope roofs, the membrane is important for waterproofing. Signs of membrane failure are:
Pooling water: Also known as “ponding,” this happens when water sits on the roof 48 hours after rainfall. Constant and persistent pooling can lead to leaks and structural damage in the worst cases.
Membrane tears or punctures: These can be caused by foot traffic, fallen debris, or weather conditions. They compromise your roof’s waterproofing abilities.
Seam failures: As years go by, the seams connecting membrane sheets can deteriorate and allow water to seep through.
8. Mold or Fungi Growth
Mold, fungi, or mildew growth on your roof or inside your building can mean you’re dealing with moisture problems stemming from a failing roof. These things can damage your building’s structure and pose health risks to your employees and customers.
9. Roof Deck Deterioration
The roof deck is the structural foundation of your roofing system. Wear and tear and weather damage can deteriorate this part of your roof, and you’ll be able to tell it’s degrading when your roof feels soft or spongy when walking on it, or when there’s visible rot or decay.
Sometimes it’s repairable, but only a professional roofer can tell you when a roof replacement is necessary for your own safety.
10. Storm Damage
Oklahoma’s weather can leave quite an impact on your commercial roof, especially if it’s a storm with high winds, hail, and heavy rain. Dents, punctures, ripped-out sections, or missing materials caused by storms can accelerate the need for a new roofing system.
What to Consider Before a Commercial Roof Replacement
1. What Type of Roof Works Best for Your Commercial Building?
You’ll want to choose a commercial roofing system that gives your commercial property exactly what it needs. Additionally, you’ll want roofing materials that suit your city’s climate.
These are the most common commercial roofs in Oklahoma:
TPO roofing: Great for energy efficiency.
Metal roofing: Lasts the longest and handles severe weather well.
EPDM rubber roofing: A solid, affordable option with good durability.
2. Will You Need to Shut Down Business Operations During the Roof Replacement?
Many business owners worry about having to close up their business during the duration of the replacement. However, that’s not necessarily true for all cases. Depending on what your business is, there are instances when businesses can stay open during the replacement. Talk to your chosen professional roofer about your preferred timeline and ask about any disruptions that might happen. Let them know what your goal is, and they can help you make it happen.
3. Is It Better to Reroof or Completely Replace It?
In some cases, adding a new roofing layer on top of the old one is an option. This is called “reroofing” and it’s a good option if the underlying structure is still solid. But if your roof has major damage, a full roof replacement is still the best choice.
If you’re not sure which one is better for your situation, feel free to reach out to a professional roofing contractor or roofing company like Maupin Roofing. With our commercial roofing services, we’ll help you figure out what your roof needs and how to get it there.
Ready for a New Commercial Roofing System? Call Maupin Roofing
Maupin Roofing has been working with Oklahoma businesses for over 35 years, helping them make the right roofing decisions and providing them with the best commercial roof repair, installation, and replacement services in OK.
So, if your commercial roof is showing signs of failure, don’t wait until you have a major disaster on your hands. Contact us today to schedule an inspection or get a free quote!
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