Look for the Warning Signs

Facility managers and building owners can sometimes struggle to monitor their building’s roof for signs of damage. This is understandable, as in the hectic day-to-day operations of any business, we sometimes take our roof—and its capacity to perform its central functions—for granted. However, once a commercial roof fails, your daily operations could be disrupted. From water pooling on the roof to more serious interior water damage, the risks of neglecting your commercial roof can be extremely costly to your business. The longevity of your roof requires regular roof inspections and necessary preventative maintenance.

This raises the question: What are the top warning signs of commercial roof damage?

To start: Water.

Your roof’s very basic function is to keep water—and other outside elements—from entering your building’s interior. If water or moisture is infiltrating the interior, this is the first obvious sign of roof damage. Pay attention to the following:

• Exterior or interior mold growth. Mold thrives on moisture—if you see mold on the roof or forming on the ceiling, there is likely water or moisture where there shouldn’t be.
• Water stains on the ceiling. Damp or yellowed patches on the ceiling are a sign of water seepage and should be immediately assessed by a roofing professional.
• Pools of water on the roof. Pooling water can cause your roof to sag. Even after a heavy rainstorm, there should never be standing water on a roof.

Another sign of roof damage is rust or cracks. Regularly check the condition of the flashing, the metal strips along the edges of a roof. Any sign of rust buildup or cracks should be closely inspected, as they can be evidence of an underlying problem with the roof.

Many roofing professionals offer preventative maintenance plans to help you ensure your building’s roof is regularly inspected and that any issues are immediately addressed. If you are located in Northeast Ohio, contact Warren Roofing® to learn more.