Signs Your Commercial Roof Needs An Inspection After Summer

Summer can be tough on any building, and our commercial roofs are no exception. The intense sun, sudden storms, and general wear and tear can take a serious toll. We need to be aware of the signs that show our roof might be struggling after the warmer months. A proactive commercial roof inspection can save us a lot of trouble down the line. Let's look at what we should be watching for.

Key Takeaways

• Summer heat can cause materials to expand and contract, potentially leading to cracks or damage over time. We should check for any signs of this stress.

• Storms can leave behind debris that might puncture the roof, or cause damage we can't see from the ground. A careful look is needed.

• We must keep an eye out for any changes on the roof's surface, like blisters or worn areas, which suggest it's time for a closer look.

Summer's Toll On Your Commercial Roof

Summer can be tough on commercial roofs. We all know how hot it gets, and that heat really does a number on roofing materials. Think about how metal expands when it's hot – your roof does the same thing. This constant expansion and contraction puts stress on seams and fasteners, which can lead to cracks or loosening over time. We also see a lot of debris from summer storms, like branches or even hail, that can cause punctures or tears. These aren't always obvious at first glance, but they can let water in where it shouldn't be.

Heat Damage And Expansion

The sun's rays beat down relentlessly during the summer months. This intense heat causes the materials that make up your roof to expand. While roofing systems are designed to handle some expansion and contraction, extreme or prolonged heat can push these limits. We often see this manifest as buckling or blistering on single-ply membranes, or stress on the seams of built-up roofs. Over time, this repeated stress can weaken the roof's integrity, making it more susceptible to leaks.

Storm Debris And Punctures

Summer storms, while sometimes a welcome break from the heat, can bring damaging winds and debris. Branches, leaves, and other loose items can be blown onto the roof. If these objects are heavy or sharp, they can cause punctures or tears in the roofing material. Even smaller debris, if left to accumulate, can trap moisture and accelerate wear. We need to be mindful of any impacts from fallen branches or even hail, as these can create entry points for water that might not be immediately visible.

Key Indicators For A Commercial Roof Inspection

After a long summer, it's a good idea for us to take a close look at our commercial roof. We want to catch any problems before they turn into bigger, more expensive issues.

Visible Surface Deterioration

We should be on the lookout for any changes on the roof's surface. Think about things like cracks, blisters, or areas where the protective granules might be wearing away. These aren't just cosmetic; they're often signs that the roof's protective layers are weakening.

• Cracks: These can appear in the membrane or flashing, letting water seep in.

• Blisters: These look like bubbles under the surface and can indicate moisture trapped within the roof system.

• Gravel or granule loss: If we see bare spots where the protective coating is gone, the underlying material is exposed to the sun and weather.

Water Intrusion Signs

Water is our roof's biggest enemy, so spotting any signs of it getting inside is really important. We need to check the interior of our building, especially the top floor and any areas directly under the roof.

• Stains on ceilings or walls: These are pretty obvious indicators that water has found a way in.

• Dripping water: Even a slow drip can mean significant damage is happening above.

• Mold or mildew growth: This often shows up in damp areas and points to persistent moisture problems.

We should make it a habit to do a quick walk-through of the interior spaces after any major weather event or at the end of the summer season. It’s better to find a small damp spot now than a large water stain later.

Don't Wait, Inspect Your Roof

So, we've gone over a few things to look out for on your commercial roof after the summer heat. It's easy to put off, right? We get it. But ignoring small issues can lead to bigger, more expensive problems down the road. Think of it like this: a quick check now could save us a lot of headaches and money later. We should really schedule that inspection. It’s a good idea to get a professional opinion, especially after a tough summer season. Let's make sure our building stays in good shape.

Frequently Asked Questions

Why should we inspect our commercial roof after summer?

We often check our roofs after the summer because the hot sun and any storms can cause damage. Think of it like checking your car after a long road trip; the summer heat can really put a strain on roofing materials, making them brittle or causing them to expand and contract, which can lead to cracks. Plus, summer storms might leave behind branches or other debris that can poke holes.

What kind of damage should we be on the lookout for?

We look for signs like cracks, blisters, or areas where the roofing material seems to be peeling away or breaking down. If we see any sagging spots, loose gravel, or even moss growing, these are also clues that something might be wrong. Basically, any change in how the roof looks on the outside could mean trouble underneath.

How can we tell if water is getting into our building through the roof?

The most obvious sign is seeing water where it shouldn't be, like inside our building. This could be stains on the ceiling or walls, or even drips after it rains. We also check for dampness or mold in the attic or on the underside of the roof deck. If we notice a musty smell, that's another strong hint that water might be getting in.