11 Common Commercial Roof Problems and Solutions
Keep commercial roofing problems from turning into leaks and costly repairs. Knowing what commercial roofing problems to watch for and what action to take can prevent severe roof damage.
New Image Roofing Atlanta explores 11 reasons commercial roofs develop significant problems and how to efficiently solve them.
1. Ponding Water
- Problem: Low spots or poor drainage cause water to pool for more than 48 hours after rainfall.
- Solution: Regrade insulation, clear blocked drains, and install tapered insulation systems to promote water flow.
2. Damaged or Missing Flashing
- Problem: Flashing seals the edges, penetrations, and transitions on a roof. Damaged flashing allows water to infiltrate.
- Solution: Inspect flashing regularly and replace any sections showing cracks, warping, or separation.
3. Membrane Punctures or Tears
- Problem: Foot traffic, dropped tools, or debris can puncture a membrane, letting moisture penetrate.
- Solution: Install walkway pads for foot traffic and repair punctures immediately with manufacturer-approved patches.
4. Clogged Roof Drains and Gutters
- Problem: Leaves, debris, and sediment block water flow, causing overflows and leaks.
- Solution: Schedule regular drain and gutter cleanings to ensure continuous proper drainage.
5. Poorly Installed Roofing Materials
- Problem: Inexperienced installers may leave seams unsealed or components misaligned.
- Solution: Hire certified, experienced commercial roofing contractors and conduct post-installation inspections.
6. Open Roof Seams
- Problem: Seams between membrane sheets can loosen over time due to thermal expansion and contraction.
- Solution: Seal open seams promptly using compatible adhesives or heat-welding methods.
7. Blistering or Bubbling in Roofing Materials
- Problem: Trapped moisture or air beneath the membrane causes raised blisters that weaken the roof surface.
- Solution: Remove blistered sections, repair the substrate, and reinstall the membrane (following the manufacturer’s specifications).
8. Damaged Roof Penetrations
- Problem: HVAC units, vents, skylights, and other penetrations are common issues when flashing or seals fail.
- Solution: Inspect all penetrations during routine maintenance and reseal or replace components when deterioration appears.
Read more about commercial roof penetrations HERE.
9. Shrinking Roofing Membrane
- Problem: Aging or poor-quality materials can shrink and pull away from edges and flashing.
- Solution: Replace affected sections and upgrade to a higher-grade membrane with proper expansion capability.
10. Structural Movement
- Problem: Building settling or structural shifting can crack roofing materials or break seals.
- Solution: Use flexible roofing materials that can accommodate slight building movement and repair damaged areas quickly.
11. UV Damage and Weathering
- Problem: Constant exposure to sunlight degrades roofing materials, making them brittle and prone to cracking.
- Solution: Apply reflective roof coatings and replace damaged sections to extend the roof’s life.
New Image Roofing Atlanta Maintenance Contract
Preventive maintenance is the most effective way to avoid commercial roof problems. New Image Roofing Atlanta offers customized maintenance contracts designed to extend roof life, minimize repair costs, and prevent costly downtime.
A maintenance contract includes:
- Scheduled Inspections – Professional inspections at least twice a year, plus after major weather events.
- Detailed Reporting – Photos and written documentation outlining current roof conditions, needed repairs, and recommended upgrades.
- Priority Service – Maintenance contract clients receive expedited scheduling for urgent repairs.
- Preventive Repairs – Small issues (seam separation or minor punctures) are addressed before they lead to significant leaks.
- Budget Planning – Annual maintenance reports help building owners forecast future roof expenses and plan capital improvements.
Routine maintenance under a professional contract ensures compliance with most manufacturer warranties and extends the lifespan of your roof.
Why Hire New Image Roofing Atlanta
New Image Roofing Atlanta specializes in commercial low-slope roofing systems for businesses throughout the state of Georgia. By choosing our team, you benefit from:
Expertise in All Commercial Roof Types – TPO, PVC, EPDM, modified bitumen, and metal roofing systems.
Certified Installers – Our technicians are trained to meet or exceed manufacturer installation standards.
Advanced Diagnostic Tools – Infrared moisture scanning, drone inspections, and leak detection technology.
Commitment to Quality – We use only proven materials from trusted manufacturers.
Local Experience – We understand Atlanta’s climate challenges and design roofing solutions to withstand heavy rain, heat, and UV exposure.
BBB Accredited Business – New Image Roofing Atlanta is an accredited – A+ Rated – roofing contractor.
When you hire New Image Roofing Atlanta, you are not just getting a roof – you are getting a partner dedicated to keeping your building safe, efficient, and compliant with building codes.
Key Considerations for Commercial Roof Problems and Solutions
Commercial roofs face unique challenges due to their size, design, and exposure to harsh weather conditions. Identifying and addressing these problems quickly can save building owners thousands in repair costs and prevent operational disruptions.
1. Timely Detection is Crucial
Small leaks or cracks, if ignored, can quickly escalate into structural damage. Regular inspections detect issues like membrane punctures, ponding water, or flashing deterioration before they become emergencies.
2. Choosing the Right Materials
Different roofing systems offer varying levels of durability, weather resistance, and maintenance requirements. Selecting materials suited for the local climate and building usage ensures maximum lifespan and performance.
3. Preventive Maintenance is Cost-Effective
Implementing a consistent maintenance schedule reduces the frequency of major repairs and extends the service life of your roof. A maintenance plan typically includes inspections, debris removal, seam resealing, and cleaning drainage systems.
4. Skilled Contractors Make the Difference
The quality of installation and repair work directly impacts a roof’s performance. Hiring certified commercial roofing specialists guarantees that materials are installed to the manufacturer’s specifications and industry standards.
5. Documentation Protects Investments
Keeping detailed records of inspections, repairs, and upgrades supports warranty claims, insurance requests, and property valuation. It also helps track the roof’s condition over time.
Commercial Roof Leak Solutions
In this article, you discovered 11 of the most common commercial roof problems and the proven solutions for each, along with preventive maintenance strategies and contractor selection tips.
By acting quickly, working with experienced professionals, and following a consistent maintenance plan, you can protect your building from costly water damage, maintain structural integrity, and maximize the return on your roofing investment.
Neglecting roof issues or hiring unqualified contractors can lead to leaks, interior damage, mold growth, and premature roof failure, resulting in major repair expenses and potential business disruptions.
Sources:
gsa.gov/real-estate/historic-preservation/historic-preservation-policy-tools/preservation-tools-resources/technical-procedures/sources-of-flat-roof-failures-inspection-guidance
disastersafety.org/maintenance/how-to-inspect-and-maintain-your-commercial-roof
Atlanta, GA 30318
(404) 680-0041
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