Insider Knowledge From The Roofing Professionals That Keep Your Property in Great Shape
Keeping your commercial property in top shape is a constant priority. A well-maintained roof is crucial for the long-term health of your building and protects your tenants, inventory, and equipment from the elements. Just like any part of your building, your roof needs preventative care. This means regular inspections and keeping up-to-date on the warning signs for potential leak’s and damages that can lead to roof failures.
Here at Kodiak, we’ve been keeping roofs secure and maintained for over 30 years. We’ll share some of the knowledge we’ve gained over the decades to help you identify the culprits behind a leaky roof and keep your property watertight and damage free.
What Causes Leaks: The Hidden Dangers
Leaks can stem from a surprising number of sources, both inside and outside your building.
Foreign Causes
- Tenant modifications: Improperly installed tenant improvements can puncture the roof membrane or disrupt flashing around vents and pipes.
- Mechanical equipment failure: HVAC units, exhaust fans, and other equipment on your roof can malfunction and cause leaks around their bases.
- Vandalism: Unfortunately, even the most secure buildings can be targets. Roof damage from vandalism can lead to leaks.
- Poor installation defects: A roof is only as good as the installation. Faulty flashing or improper sealing around penetrations can create leaks waiting to happen.
- Other contaminants: Debris build-up, leaves, and even animal nesting can trap moisture from escaping the roof and lead to leaks.
Natural Causes
- Material wear and tear: Over time, all roofing materials degrade due to sun exposure, temperature swings, and weather. With proper upkeep and regular inspections, you can greatly extend the life of your roofing materials.
- Clogged gutters and drains: A clogged drainage system can cause water to back up under the shingles, leading to leaks that can worsen with repeated exposure. Hiring a knowledgeable professional to identify potential areas of water issues can save you from costly interruptions to your business.
- Severe weather: High winds, hail, and heavy snow can lead to damage. If not addressed quickly, the sources of leaks can become vulnerable and lead to holes, property damage and even roof collapses.
- Building movement: Shifting in the building’s foundation can put stress on the roof, shifting the structure enough to create stress points that lead to leaks.
Why Do Roofs Fail?
There are three main reasons why commercial roofs fail:
- Lack of Regular Maintenance: This is the number one culprit. Regular inspections by a qualified roofer can identify small problems before they become dangerous problems. Early repairs cost much less, and is the key to extending the life of your roof and your budget.
- Unqualified Workmanship: Roofing is a skilled trade. Improper repairs from unqualified workers can lead to more extensive, and expensive, damage down the road. Don’t be tempted to cut corners – a qualified roofer will save you money in the long run.
- Other Factors: Even the best-maintained roof will eventually reach the end of its lifespan. Knowing the average lifespan of your roof’s material will help you plan for a replacement before leaks become a problem. Similarly, poor initial construction or substandard repairs can lead to premature roof failure.
The Roofing and Waterproofing Professionals: Experts through Experience
Keeping your commercial roof healthy takes vigilance and professional help. If you suspect a leak or see signs of roof damage, don’t wait. Contact a trusted, qualified roofing contractor like Kodiak Roofing & Waterproofing to receive a comprehensive approach that addresses your specific needs. Without breaking your budget.
We have the expertise (check out our impressive portfolio) and industry-leading roofing services to diagnose the problem, recommend solutions, and keep your roof watertight and your property protected.
