5 Common Commercial Roof Problems: A Quick Guide

Commercial roofs play a crucial role in protecting businesses and the assets within. However, without proper maintenance, they can become prone to various issues that can impact the roof’s performance, longevity, and overall safety. In this article, we will delve into the top 5 common commercial roof problems that building owners and managers need to be aware of.

Learn about the top 5 common commercial roof problems and how to prevent them. This article covers delaminated torchon seams, degraded bitumen roof membranes, cracked/leaking membranes due to expansion and contraction, poor rooftop design and drainage, and damaged fasteners.

Delaminated Torchon Seams

Torchon seams are one of the most critical components of a commercial roofing system. They are the joints between the individual panels of the roof membrane, and they are responsible for sealing out water and moisture. Delamination occurs when the torchon seams start to separate, which can be caused by various factors such as poor installation, aging, or exposure to extreme weather conditions. This can lead to water leaks, increased energy costs, and even structural damage to the building.

To prevent delamination, it is essential to have a professional inspect and maintain the torchon seams regularly. This includes checking for signs of separation, wear, or damage. If any problems are found, they should be repaired immediately to prevent further damage. With the advances in recent years on acrylic waterproofing systems it is now possible to renew your torchon system with the ArmTec Hyperflex system. The ArmTec HyperFlex waterproofing system incorporates a fibreglass mesh used as reinforcement for the liquid-applied waterproofing systems.

Degraded Bitumen Roof Membrane

Bitumen roof membranes are designed to protect commercial buildings from the elements. Over time, however, exposure to sunlight, heat, and other elements can cause the bitumen to degrade, becoming brittle and cracking. This can lead to water damage, mould growth, and other problems that can compromise the building’s structure.

Building owners and managers should have a professional assess the condition of their bitumen roof membrane regularly to ensure it remains in good condition. This includes checking for signs of cracking, peeling, or discolouration. If any problems are found, they should be repaired or replaced as soon as possible. When it comes to replacing a torchon system the ArmTec HyperFlex waterproofing system has excellent substrate adhesion and can be used to overcoat and existing torchon system or completely renew it without the need to remove it.

Cracked / Leaking Membrane due to Expansion and Contraction

Expansion and contraction are natural phenomena that occur in all commercial roofing systems. However, if not properly managed, they can cause the roofing membrane to crack, leading to water leaks and other problems.

To prevent this, it is important to have a professional inspect the roof regularly and address any cracks as soon as they appear. This may involve sealing the cracks with a caulk or sealant or replacing the entire roofing membrane. For high mechanical resistance, HyperFlex is applied in combination with coated ArmTec fibreglass mesh to help absorb movement in new and previously sealed slabs, bridge cracks and to join different materials.

Poor Rooftop Design and Drainage

A poorly designed rooftop can lead to various problems, including water pooling, which can cause water damage and even collapse the roof. Additionally, a lack of proper drainage can cause water to accumulate on the roof, leading to mould growth, structural damage, and other problems.

Building owners and managers should have a professional assess their rooftop design and drainage systems regularly to ensure they are functioning as intended. This may involve making changes to the rooftop design, installing additional drainage channels, or cleaning out gutters and downspouts.

Damaged Fasteners

Fasteners play a crucial role in securing the roofing system of the building structure. Over time, however, they can become damaged or worn, leading to roof leaks and other problems.

To prevent this, it is essential to have a professional inspect the fasteners regularly and replace them as needed. This may involve replacing individual fasteners or the entire roofing system.

In conclusion, it is essential for building owners and managers to be aware of the common commercial roof problems and take the necessary steps to prevent them. Regular roof inspections, maintenance, and repairs can help extend the life of the roofing system, prevent water damage, and keep the building and its assets protected.

Here are some additional tips for preventing commercial roof problems:

• Install a roof drainage system that is designed to handle the amount of rainfall in your area.
• Inspect your roof regularly for signs of damage, such as cracks, tears, or missing shingles.
• Have your roof cleaned and inspected by a professional at least once a year.
• Use a roofing material that is designed for your climate.
• Avoid using materials that are prone to fading or cracking.
• Install flashing around all roof penetrations, such as vents and skylights.
• Make sure that your roof is properly ventilated to prevent moisture buildup.
• Hire a qualified roofing contractor to install & maintain your roof waterproofing system.

By following these tips, you can help ensure that your commercial roof remains in good condition and protects your building for years to come. If you are in need of a professional roofing contractor please contact us and one of our aggregated applicators will be in contact.