Commercial Roof Mistakes to Avoid

Avoid Commercial Roofing Repairs by Preventing These Mistakes

Commercial roofing systems require ongoing care and maintenance, as well as occasional proactive repairs, to reach their maximum lifespan. Unfortunately, roof maintenance can be complicated, and commercial roofs can become damaged if roofers or property managers aren’t careful.

Here at Anchor Roofing, our team provides expert commercial roofing solutions, including repairs, diagnostic inspections, and ongoing maintenance. Throughout our time in the industry, we’ve frequently seen roofs become damaged for a variety of reasons—some unavoidable, but others very avoidable. To help better protect your roof, here are some of the most common mistakes to avoid making with your commercial roof.

A turquoise metal roof with a street view below in Omaha, NE

Hiring an Inexperienced Roofer

While it may come as a surprise, damage to commercial roofs is frequently caused by roofers, most often those who lack commercial roofing experience. Commercial roofing systems are highly complex. This means it takes years of specialized training to understand the ins and outs of installing, repairing, and maintaining these systems.

Simple mistakes can have major consequences for a commercial roof. This may include leaving behind exposed fasteners, not designing effective drainage systems, or using the wrong materials for the roofing system. Any of these or other errors can lead to roof damage and, with time, major issues such as roof leaks.

To avoid problems due to inexperienced roofers, make sure you carefully vet the roofing professional you choose, whether it’s for repairs or a full roof replacement. Ask about their commercial roofing experience, ask about their expertise with various materials, and request references as needed.

Damage from Other Contractors

Commercial roofs play a key role in the functioning of your building. Not only due they protect the building’s interior, but roofs are also where key equipment such as HVAC units will be installed. This means roofers won’t be the only contractors who walk on your roof or make modifications to it.

Sadly, we’ve seen damage resulting from contractors installing HVAC units, signs, and other roof-mounted objects far too often. Typically, this will be a result of roof penetrations that aren’t properly protected from rainwater, but other problems can arise as well. For example, failing to stay on designated walking paths can scuff, crack, or tear membrane roofing materials.

To ensure your roof wasn’t compromised, it’s often a good idea to book an appointment with a professional roofer after installing new equipment on your roof. A professional will be able to assess the affected area and determine whether any damage was left behind.

Neglecting Roof Maintenance

Lastly, one of the most common causes of commercial roofing repairs or premature replacements is simply a lack of maintenance. While commercial roofs are designed to last for decades, they aren’t intended to be installed and promptly forgotten about.

When commercial roofs are neglected, a host of problems can arise. Failing to schedule roof inspections means that damage or other roofing issues won’t be identified. The roof will be left vulnerable and damage will worsen over time, potentially compromising areas of the building’s interior. Leaving debris on commercial roofs can lead to clogged drainage systems, causing ponding water, leaks, and more. Not only that, but failing to maintain your roof could also void your warranty or even affect your insurance coverage.

Commercial roof maintenance is the key to ensuring your roof lasts as long as possible. Effective maintenance includes a variety of critical tasks, including regular diagnostic inspections, roof cleaning, and proactive repairs to address minor damage before it worsens.

Anchor Roofing truck parked in front of a commercial building in Omaha, NE

Prevent Commercial Roofing Problems: Hire the Pros at Anchor Roofing

At Anchor Roofing, our team of commercial roofing experts offers a full suite of services to ensure your roof is in its best possible condition year-round. Our repairs provide cost-effective solutions that can add years to the life of your commercial roofing system, while our maintenance package includes thorough diagnostic inspections that evaluate your roof inside and out, helping business owners and property managers understand the state of their roof.

Partnering with a highly experienced commercial roofing company is the best way to avoid making mistakes with the health of your roof. If you’re interested in complete roofing care, reach out to our team today to get started.

Join the growing list of happy Anchor Roofing Customers.