5 Signs Your Commercial Flat Roof Needs Repair
A commercial roof is one of your building's most critical components, yet it's often out of sight and out of mind until problems become obvious. By the time water is dripping onto your inventory or equipment, you may be facing repairs far more extensive than necessary.
Here are five warning signs every building owner and facility manager should watch for.
1. Ponding Water
After rain, walk your roof within 48 hours. If you see standing water that hasn't drained, you have ponding. While flat roofs are designed with slight slopes for drainage, settlement, membrane stretching, or blocked drains can create low spots where water collects.
Why It Matters
Standing water accelerates membrane deterioration, adds structural weight, and creates perfect conditions for leaks and biological growth. Ponding that persists beyond 48 hours requires professional attention.
2. Blistering or Bubbling
Blisters form when air or moisture gets trapped between roofing layers. Small blisters may seem harmless, but they indicate adhesion failure. As they expand and contract with temperature changes, the membrane weakens, eventually cracking and allowing water infiltration.
3. Visible Membrane Damage
Regular visual inspections can catch damage early. Look for:
- Cracks, splits, or punctures in the membrane
- Separated or lifted seams
- Exposed or deteriorating insulation
- Missing or damaged flashing around edges and penetrations
- Debris accumulation that could damage the membrane
4. Interior Water Stains
Brown stains on ceiling tiles, damp spots on walls, or musty odors inside your building are late-stage indicators of roof leaks. By the time water shows up inside, it has often traveled through insulation and decking, meaning damage is more extensive than the visible stain suggests.
5. Increased Energy Bills
A sudden spike in heating or cooling costs can indicate compromised roof insulation. When moisture infiltrates insulation, its R-value drops dramatically. If your HVAC system is working harder than usual, have your roof inspected.
What to Do If You Notice These Signs
Early intervention is key. Small repairs cost a fraction of what emergency work or full replacement requires. If you notice any of these warning signs, schedule a professional roof inspection promptly. Many issues caught early can be addressed with targeted repairs that extend your roof's life by years.
Pro Tip
Create a simple roof inspection schedule. A 15-minute visual check after major storms and quarterly walk-throughs can catch problems before they escalate.
