Age, leaks, sagging, shingle damage and moss — the five warning signs on a commercial roof, and what each one is telling you.
Your roof is one of the most important parts of any commercial building — protection from the elements and a large part of the structural integrity of the property. But roofs do not last forever, and recognizing the signs that it is time to replace one saves you from far more costly damage later. Here are the five warning signs worth knowing.
1. Age
Installed properly, a roof should last around 20 years. That life can be cut short by any of the reasons below. Knowing how to spot them early is how you stop damage before it gets bad.
2. Water leaks
Leaks are the most common sign, especially on older buildings. Whether the cause is storm damage, age or poor installation, a leak damages far more than the roof — it reaches the structure below and compromises the whole covering.
3. Sagging
A sagging roof is a very common reason building owners replace. Causes include age, poor installation, the weight of snow or ice, and termite damage. Ignoring it risks failure of the roof, which puts the whole building at risk. The signs:
- A visible dip or depression in the roof surface
- Cracks in interior or exterior walls
- Doors or windows no longer closing properly
- Water stains or leaks on the ceiling
4. Shingle damage
Curled shingles let water run underneath and into the building. A good way to check is to look in the gutters and downspouts for shingle granules — a roof near the end of its life sheds them far more readily than a new one. Where shingles have come off entirely, the structure beneath is exposed. At minimum those need replacing, but it is often a sign the whole roof is close to done.
5. Moss on the roof
Moss means moisture is trapped under the shingles, which is a clear sign the roof needs replacing. Left there, the moss also holds moisture on top of the shingles and the roof deteriorates faster.
In short
Whether it is age, leaks, sagging, damaged shingles or moss, these signs mean it is worth getting the roof looked at properly. We specialize in high-quality roofing for commercial buildings — contact us for an inspection.
