Common Reasons Why Commercial Roofs Leak

Commercial building provides your business with a secure and comfortable space to operate and expand. To keep your business running smoothly, it is essential to take care of your building, especially the roof. One common problem many commercial building owners face is a leaking roof.

A roof leak can cause serious problems and cost you money. Experienced roofers Maui businesses trust can help identify why commercial roofs leak and how to prevent or fix those leaks. Knowing this can save your business from damage and big repair costs. Repairing a leak promptly protects your building and saves you money over time.

Why Do Commercial Roofs Leak?

1. Poor or No Drainage

One main reason roofs leak is because water does not drain properly. If your roof does not have enough drains or gutters, water can collect in puddles. This standing water can slowly seep into cracks or weak spots in your roof, causing leaks inside your building.

Water pooling on the roof also adds extra weight and can damage the roof structure. It may also cause moss or plants to grow, which damages roofing materials faster.

When a commercial roof is built, a drainage system with drains, downspouts, scuppers, and gutters is usually installed to help water flow off the roof. Ensure these are clean and free of leaves or dirt that can block water from draining.

2. Poor Roof Design or Installation

Most commercial roofs are flat because the buildings are large and wide. Although flat roofs can be practical, they must be installed properly with a slight slope to help water flow. If the roof is designed or installed badly, it may not drain well and cause leaks.

A trusted roofing company should install your roof to make sure it has enough drainage and is slightly pitched, even if it looks flat. This helps keep water from pooling and causing leaks.

3. Improper Sealing

Your roof has many openings such as drains, vents, pipes, HVAC units, gas lines, and skylights. These areas must be sealed carefully to stop water from leaking through. If these seals break or wear out, water can get inside and cause leaks.

Frequently inspect and care for these seals to ensure your roof stays waterproof.

4. Poor Maintenance

Regular roof care is important to prevent leaks. Regular roof inspections help catch minor issues before they become major leaks.

While weather like strong winds or heavy rain can damage any roof, regular maintenance can reduce this damage and help keep your roof in good condition.

5. Flashing Damage

Flashing is metal installed around the edges and joints of a roof to protect the roof membrane. Weather changes can make flashing warp, crack, or loosen, letting water get under the roof membrane.

Damaged flashing often causes leaks at roof edges and joints, so it needs regular inspection and repair.

6. Membrane Damage

Most commercial flat roofs have a waterproof membrane covering the surface to protect the building underneath. Over time, sun, foot traffic, temperature changes, and physical damage can cause cracks, holes, blisters, or shrinkage in this membrane.

Once the membrane is damaged, water can soak the roof’s insulation and cause leaks. Some damages need only small repairs, but large damage may require replacing big parts of the membrane.

7. Old Age

Every roof has a lifespan. Even with good care, time will wear down the roofing materials, causing cracks and leaks. When your roof gets very old and starts leaking often, it may be time to replace it.

How to Avoid Commercial Roof Leaks

● Clean Off Debris

Leaves, branches, dirt, and trash can clog drains and gutters, leading to water pooling on your roof. Regularly clean your roof to keep it free from debris.

● Schedule Routine Inspections

Hire professionals to inspect your roof regularly. They can find small cracks, seal problems, or damaged areas early and fix them before leaks start.

● Waterproof Your Roof

Waterproofing provides an additional barrier that helps protect your roof from water damage. Services like commercial waterproofing help prevent leaks, protect your building, and reduce future repair costs.

● Limit Roof Access

Too much foot traffic can damage your roof membrane. Only allow trained and experienced people on the roof to reduce the risk of damage.

● Fix Flashing or Membrane Damage Quickly

Inspect the flashing and membrane for any cracks or warping. Fix any damage immediately to stop leaks from getting worse.

Problems Caused by Roof Leaks

● Wall and Ceiling Damage

Water can soak walls and ceilings, causing paint to bubble or peel. It can even weaken drywall and cause ceilings to sag or collapse, which is dangerous.

● Mold and Mildew Growth

Standing water from leaks causes mould and mildew to grow. Mould can appear as dark spots on walls or ceilings and spread, especially near the HVAC system.

● Health Issues

Mold spores can cause allergies and breathing problems. Wet floors from leaks also create slipping hazards, risking injuries and possible lawsuits.

● Electrical Problems

Water can damage electrical wiring. If wires become wet, they can short-circuit or spark, creating a fire hazard.

● Wood Rot

Parts of the roof structure made of wood absorb water from leaks, causing the wood to swell, contract, and eventually rot, weakening the roof support.

What to Do If Your Commercial Roof Leaks

1. Protect Your Property

Move valuable items such as computers, furniture, and equipment away from the leak. Cover large furniture with plastic sheets, and put buckets under dripping water to catch it.

2. Find the Leak Source

Look for where water is entering the roof—check drainage, seals, flashing, and membrane. Mark the spot so your roofer can find it easily.

3. Call a Roofing Professional

Fixing leaks can be complicated. Hire an experienced roofing contractor to repair the damage correctly and prevent future leaks. This saves time, money, and stress.

Conclusion

Taking care of your commercial roof by keeping it clean, scheduling inspections, waterproofing, limiting roof access, and fixing damage quickly will help protect your building from leaks. Leaks can cause costly damage and safety risks, so acting quickly is very important. A well-maintained roof keeps your business safe, secure, and running smoothly.