7 signs it’s time to replace a commercial roof

A commercial roof won’t last forever, regardless of how robust it is.

Over time, roof degradation will decrease the quality, safety and structural integrity of your commercial premises. As a result, you could find yourself paying out for costly repairs when a replacement might be more cost-effective.

So how can you tell when it’s time for a roof replacement? Let’s look at the common signs.

7 signs you might need a roof replacement

Sagging: A sagging or dipping roof can signal a decline in structural integrity and may be more apparent after rain. Sagging could be a sign of water damage, deterioration of materials or inadequate internal bracing. The issue will only worsen if left unaddressed and undiagnosed. Depending on the age of your roof and the severity of the problem, this issue will require either repair or full replacement.

Pooling water: Leading on from the previous point, water can begin to pool in any dips or low points on the roof. Pooling could also be a sign of drainage problems, so drains should be checked as well as the roof’s overall structural integrity.

Leaks: If you’ve spent a lot of time in the past few years plugging leaks in your roof, then it’s evident that there is some underlying problem. Patch fixes will deal with the immediate problem, preventing further damage to your roof or the interior of your building. However, if leaks are becoming a recurring issue then this could be a sign of roof degradation or ageing, and it could be more cost effective to replace.

Water stains: Stains, discolouration and wet spots could be a sign of developing or established water damage. If left uncorrected, water stains or water damage can lead to roof rot, which is a problem that can further impact the quality and strength of your roof. If these stains are extensive, it might be worth getting a roofing professional to establish the cause. From this, you can decide whether to pursue repair or replacement.

Blistering: Roof blistering, or bubbling, is most commonly seen on PVC and EPDM roofing. This occurs when moisture or air gets trapped underneath a roof membrane, resulting in the formation of visible bubbles. This problem may be more prevalent in places that experience temperature swings or in roofs with ventilation issues. If this issue is left untreated, blisters can increase in size and can damage the membrane of the roof.

Visible damage: If your roof is showing signs of visible damage, then it might be worth getting a quote on the repairs to see if a roof replacement is more economical. Holes, tears or missing roof parts are all a threat to its quality. An essential part of roof ownership is to book professional roof inspections twice a year to assess damage or developing problems, and it might be wise to do this after a particularly harsh winter, or after a spell of adverse weather such as storms or hail.

Age: The average lifespan for a commercial roof is anywhere between 10 and 40 years, depending on the material. Once your roof reaches a certain age, it may become costly to maintain as it degrades from old age. Therefore it’s probably advisable to replace a roof once it’s been around for a certain number of years – or once it starts becoming more trouble than it’s worth.

5 benefits of a commercial roof replacement

There is no question that a commercial roof replacement is an investment, though it’s one that comes with rewards. Let’s look at the main benefits.

- Aesthetically pleasing: Managing a commercial building means making a great first impression on visitors. A new roof can boost kerb appeal and convey a professional appearance to visitors.

Increased energy efficiency: A lot of warmth is lost through the roof, so if a roof is damaged or just not performing at its best, it can decrease the overall energy efficiency of your building. Replacing your roof will strengthen its energy efficiency, saving you money on bills in the long term.

Improved safety: When you manage a commercial building, you have a certain responsibility of safety to your employees and property. A new roof will be safer and sturdier, decreasing the chance of leaks and other safety issues that can come from a degraded roof.

Boost value: When it comes time to sell your commercial premises in the future, a new and improved roof can boost the asking price.

Saves money on repairs: If you find that you’re spending lots of money on regular repairs, it will likely be far more cost-efficient in the long run to carry out a full replacement.

Get your free quotation and estimation for a commercial roof replacement from our experts. Here at Docherty Roofing & Cladding, we’re leading the way in commercial and industrial roofing. Our fully accredited team has over 18 years’ experience providing resilient and cost-effective roofing services across East England. Contact us to find out how we can help your business.