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Three Warning Signs That Indicate Your Building Needs a Roof Replacement

Water intrusion causes over 40% of all building-related problems. In most cases, the origin of water intrusion is the roof. It’s the reason that design and roof installation are two of the most important aspects of any commercial building.

It’s a substantial investment that you’ll want to secure. One way of doing this is with regular maintenance and inspection. This will lessen the likelihood of the need for a roof replacement.

However, there will be natural wear and tear on your roof over time. Here are a few things you should look out for to ensure you catch any issues early.

1. Damage to Your Roof’s Membrane

Most commercial roofs are flat, with a water-tight membrane covering. Any damage to this membrane is cause for concern. This can include:

• Lifted areas 
• Openings in the laps on various pieces
• Bald spots

These signs mean it’s time to call a contractor. Depending on the level of damage they may recommend replacing the roofing membrane. However, if the damage is extensive, you’ll need a new roof.

2. A Blistering Roof

This damage looks exactly how it sounds. It occurs when water gets under your roof.

The disintegration of the roofing materials causes the release of gases. This results in the outer roofing raising or bubbling up, similar to a blister.

Poor installation may be the reason water easily penetrates your roof. Whether this is the cause, or general wear and tear, it’s usually an indication of extensive damage. You’ll probably need a new roof.

3. Signs of Leaking

A leaking roof is the most common sign that there’s a problem. Regardless of the size, leaks can cause extensive damage over time. You must catch them early to prevent this.

If you never actually see a leak, stains on the ceiling or walls of your office are a good indication that there is one. Peeling paint, mildew, or mold are also common signs. Your energy bill may also become unusually high.

You’ll need to contact a roofing company to assess the damage. Repairs may be minor. However, roof replacement may be necessary if the leaks were left unattended.

A damaged roof may also have missing or warped shingles, weakened or missing flashing, or unevenness in certain areas.

Roof Replacement Cost

The cost to replace a commercial roof in California will vary depending on the size and type of roof, including the materials used. The cost can range from $3.50 to $14.50 per square foot.

But other factors can affect this cost, including:

Customized Design

If you have a unique office building your roof replacement may require a customized job. This will require roof specialists with the expertise to provide this service. Make sure you hire a company that can provide you with a well-installed roof that fits well.

Flat Roof Considerations

If you have a flat roof, replacement might involve simply applying the single-ply membrane over the existing roof system. This means there’s no need to tear off the current one. However, if the experts indicate removal is necessary, take into consideration the labor cost involved.

Weather Conditions

Unfortunately, you can’t dictate the timing of a roof replacement. If you discover issues during a time of year when there’s heavy rainfall, this will delay the work. This will prolong the project and increase costs.

Cost of Materials

You don’t want to compromise on quality when it comes to the roofing materials you use for your roof replacement. High-quality materials will cost more, but they will save you in the long run.

They’ll offer the best value when you consider the cost over the life of your roof. Anything else may result in leaks and other roofing failures which will cost you more over time. 

Insulation

All replacement roofs in California must now be cool roofs. This is according to new building energy efficiency standards. This applies to both low-slope and steep slope roofs.

What this may mean for your roof replacement is the need for additional insulation to meet the code requirements. This helps to reduce energy use as well as greenhouse gas emissions. Your energy bill will reflect the cost savings you’ll receive over the life of the new roof.

Roof Protrusions

The more detailed the work required on your roof, the more it will cost. The number of roof penetrations will affect this. These include skylights, vents, and pipes.

A contractor will need to spend additional time waterproofing around these areas. If you don’t have a simple roof, expect to pay more. 

Accessibility

Some commercial buildings have restricted roof access. This can affect your roof replacement costs as well. These restrictions can affect the delivery of materials for the project.

Your cost may include the rental of a crane and other heavy equipment to get the materials onto the roof. This is additional time and labor that the contractor will bill you for. And this is all before the job begins.

Roof Replacement Done Right

A roof inspection is one of the key ways to maintain the roof on your commercial property. Experts recommend at least two inspections every year for commercial-grade roofs. Inspections in the spring and fall are best as it ensures you know the state of your roof before two of the more extreme seasons.

However, despite regular maintenance, roof age is also a factor. Most commercial roofs usually have a lifespan of 20 to 30 years.

If you have an older roof, you’ll want to hire a reputable roof contractor that can do regular inspections. If your roof is beyond repair they’ll let you know and provide you with a roof replacement.

HP Roofing Pro is an established roofing contractor in California. We have an experienced team that’s ready to serve you. Get a FREE roof inspection today!