Why Do Commercial Roofs Leak?
Commercial roofs can be prone to leaks, and there are various reasons why this happens. In this article, we will explore the top three reasons why commercial roofs leak and what can be done to prevent them.
One of the main reasons why commercial roofs leak is that they are often flat or low sloped, which means that water does not shed off the roof quickly. When water sits on a flat roof for an extended period, it can find its way into the tiniest of cracks, leading to leaks. Furthermore, when debris accumulates on the roof, it can trap water, leading to further damage. To prevent this, it is important to have proper drainage systems in place to ensure that water is channeled away from the roof quickly. Regular cleaning of debris from the roof is also recommended to prevent blockages in the drainage system.
2. Foot traffic and other trades
领英推荐
Commercial roofs are also prone to leaks due to foot traffic and other trades such as HVAC contractors or solar companies wearing the roof down over time or puncturing the roof. When workers repeatedly walk on the roof, it can cause damage to the roof's membrane, leading to leaks. Additionally, heavy equipment used during installations or maintenance work can also cause punctures or tears in the roof membrane. To avoid this, it is important to limit foot traffic on the roof and have designated walkways installed. Also, any contractors working on the roof should be careful to avoid causing damage.
3. Poor installation
Another reason why commercial roofs leak is due to poor installation when the roof was originally installed. Improper installation of flashing, insulation, or roofing materials can cause leaks over time. It is important to ensure that the roof is installed by experienced and qualified contractors to avoid any potential issues.
The prevention of commercial roof leaks is crucial to avoid costly damage to the building's interior and structure. Annual maintenance and inspections by a trusted roofing contractor are necessary to catch any issues before they become bigger problems. It is important to have a roofing contractor that you know and trust to ensure that your roof is well-maintained and protected from leaks. Furthermore, preventative measures such as limiting foot traffic, installing designated walkways, and having proper drainage systems can also go a long way in preventing leaks. By taking these measures, commercial building owners can prolong the life of their roof and avoid costly repairs down the road.
Leak Prevention I Electronic Leak Detection I Waterproofing I Green roofs I Solar I Flat roofs
1 年Good article, I agree with the main reasons presented. Though solutions exist and are pretty easy: - include a conductive underlay in your roofing system and perform regular Electronic Leak Detection. You will detect even the smallest damage and prevent leaks - limit traffic on the roof: only trained professionnal should access it - perform regular maintenance: yearly or even twice per year maintenance is required to increase the durability of the roof