Your commercial property can provide income to help meet your daily needs and move towards financial independence. Therefore, it’s best for the building to stay in optimal condition. This way, you’ll enjoy its benefits longer.
Your commercial property’s roof protects your employees, equipment, products, and other assets from extreme weather conditions. Hence, taking proper care of your roof is essential to ensure it’s in good condition and extend its lifespan.
Regular roof inspection and maintenance can help you identify signs of damage or deterioration. This way, you can fix minor problems before they escalate. For major issues, roof repairs won’t suffice. In such cases, it’s advisable to look for the best roof replacement CT has to offer.
It’s easy to determine when your roof needs repair. However, it can be more challenging to identify when you require a replacement. To make things easier, below are the signs that indicate you may need a new roof:
1. Severe Water Damage
You can repair water damage in the early stages. However, if there are leaks, it may signify that your roof needs replacing.
In some cases, the flashing that keeps water away from cracks and openings in the roof may have broken down. Also, the protective waterproof layer that keeps water off your roof and prevents it from entering your property may be damaged.
Identifying leaks in your commercial property may not be easy because you cannot see your roof’s underside. If not addressed immediately, they can cause significant damage to your ceiling, walls, and floors.
If it has been a while since you checked your roof, find out if there are water spots, mold growth, and peeling paint. These are signs of serious water damage that call for a roof replacement.
2. Old Age
Roofs have a limited lifespan, depending on the material. For instance, wood shingles might last 30 years, and metal roofs 40 to 70 years. So, if your roof has exceeded its age limit, it’s advisable to replace it.
If you aren’t sure how old your building’s roof is, frequent repairs may indicate your roof is too old. A commercial roofer can estimate its age and advise if a new one is necessary. They can also help you choose a high-quality and more durable roof for a replacement.
3. Musty Smells
A musty smell in your commercial property indicates you may need to replace your roof. This odor comes from mold growth in your building.
Adjusting your heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC) system can help control its growth. But it’s best to clean the mold off your roof at the first sign of unsightly black stains to prevent roof damage.
However, a musty smell around your commercial property signifies that mold has significantly spread in the building. Since it often thrives in areas with moisture, check all sections of your property.
If all parts are okay, inspect your roof. Water may have penetrated it and led to significant mold growth, causing a musty smell.
In that case, a professional may recommend roof replacement. Doing so immediately can help protect your building occupants’ health and yours. Mold can trigger allergy-like reactions like headaches, a runny nose, itchy eyes, fatigue, and difficulty breathing. It can also trigger asthma symptoms.
4. Loose Or Worn-Out Materials
Iron sheets, shingles, gutters, and other roofing materials will loosen or wear out due to harsh weather conditions, improper installation, or normal aging. You can quickly fix affected areas if you identify these issues early.
However, ignoring these can cause severe problems in the future. You might experience leaks, high electricity bills, and structural damage. Also, your roof won’t last as long as it should.
If it has been a while since you inspected your roof, examine it as soon as possible. If you notice most materials are loose or worn out, consider calling a professional for a replacement.
Final Thoughts
Taking proper care of your commercial property’s roof helps you protect your equipment, employees, and inventory. It also ensures your roof serves you longer.
The best way to maintain your roof is by doing regular inspections. With this, you can spot minor issues before they become problematic. Identifying concerns that need repairs can be easy. However, problems that require the replacement of your commercial building’s roof can be challenging to distinguish.
As advised, you should consider installing a new roof if the current one is too old or has loose or worn-out materials. You may also need a new roof if your building has musty smells or severe water damage. In such cases, it’s best to hire a reputable roofing contractor that can do the job properly and more efficiently.
