A giant puddle of water suddenly appearing inside a commercial building may be the first sign a property owner or manager realizes there is a problem with the roof. By this time, however, a lot of structural damage may have already been done. Proper and regular roof inspections should reveal signs the commercial roof needs replacing before water damage and mold growth make the problem and the bill skyrocket.

Visible Cracks or Missing Roofing

Regularly-scheduled visual inspects of the existing roof materials should reveal any cracks, holes, loose material, or deterioration. The type of damage you see depends largely on the type of roofing. It could be everything from loose flashing to torn off shingles to cracked asphalt.

Mold, Moss, and Lichen Growth

The growth of any foreign substances on the roof can give a clue to its age and condition. Even though moss and algae are small, it can still weaken and disrupt the seal of older roofing material. They also give a clue about improper drainage of water from the roof. Checking gutters and downspouts at the same time is a good choice.

Increasing Energy Bills or Inefficient Systems

While a sudden uptick in energy bill amounts and it’s not your AC unit or AC Repair you need can indicate anything else from an old, worn system to unusual temperatures, a roof that no longer seals the building properly is another possibility. This should give you a clue that a more thorough inspection is needed.

Commercial roofing materials have an expected lifespan as well. Things do not last forever and need to be replaced before larger problems happen. When it comes time to replace the roof on a shopping center, office park, warehouse, restaurant, or any other commercial building, choose a roofing material that prevents many problems from the start. Spray foam roofs offer an impervious seal that is strong, weather-resistant, and lasts ten to fifteen years.