Is It Time to Replace Your Commercial Roof?

SoCal’s sun and 85-degree summers are great for the beach, but they take a toll on your roof. UV rays, heat, and shifting ground are common causes of commercial roof failure, which can pose problems for safety, comfort, and insurance compliance. We’ll explore why commercial roofs fail, signs it’s time for replacement, and the benefits of replacing your roof in our comprehensive guide to commercial roof replacement.

Why Commercial Roofs Fail Over Time

Unlike residential roofs, the majority of commercial roofs are low-slope or flat, which exposes them to a higher rate of wear and tear from weather damage. In SoCal, the intense sun and UV rays from long summers can take a significant toll on your roof, increasing the risk of commercial roof failure.

Other reasons why commercial roofs fail include poor maintenance, structural issues from minor earthquakes and ground movement (another common problem in SoCal), and the simple issue of an aging commercial roof. The lifespan of your roof depends on the materials used and how it was installed, but even the best commercial roofs eventually need replacement.

Signs It Might Be Time to Replace Your Commercial Roof

Worried that the stain on your roof might be more than a trick of the light? Keep an eye out for these common signs that it’s time to call for professional roof replacement. 

Water Stains or Active Leaks

Water stains and discoloration are one of the first interior signs that you need a new roof. When ceilings become discolored or stained, it’s usually an indication that there’s a leak in your roof. Calling a commercial roofing contractor promptly (before water starts falling) can help prevent costly water damage.

Ponding or Sagging Sections

Roof ponding refers to areas of your roof that retain water for more than one or two days. If you go up to the roof a few days after it’s rained and you still see an accumulation of water in certain sections, it’s a sign that part of your roof is sagging and could collapse.

Rising Energy Bills

This is a more subtle sign that can show up long before any visible damage. If your roof is starting to break down, the damage to the insulation can result in air loss from the building. This shows up as higher heating or cooling costs on your energy bill.

Visible Cracks or Blistering

If you can see cracks on the inside or outside of your roof, it’s a clear sign of damage. Blistering or bubbling is also a red flag. These mean that air or water has become trapped inside your roof membrane due to a small leak or crack.

Repair vs. Replace: How to Decide

A full roof replacement is a major investment, so it’s important to weigh the pros and cons of repairing vs. replacing your commercial roof. Consider these factors to help guide your choice:

Extent of Damage

Are you dealing with a small crack or significant structural shifts? If the damage to your roof is localized (for example, from a maintenance issue or other confined problem), it’s often more affordable to repair your roof. Roof repairs are also less disruptive than full roof replacement — however, if you’re dealing with a widespread problem like major hail damage, it may be necessary to replace the whole roof.

Roof Age

The lifespan of your roof depends on the materials used and how it’s been cared for. In general, if you have a fairly new roof and the damage isn’t too extensive, repairs are the way to go. However, if your roof is reaching the end of its anticipated lifespan, it may be more efficient to replace the entire thing.

Not sure whether repair or replacement is the way to go? Our roofing pros can inspect your roof and provide an assessment on the most efficient solution for your needs. They can also recommend the best roof for your commercial roof replacement. 

How Long Does a Commercial Roof Last?

The lifespan of commercial roofs varies significantly depending on what they’re made of. For example, metal roofs often last 40 to 60 years, while clay and slate tiles can last 50 to 100 years. Asphalt shingle roofs have a shorter lifespan of about 15 to 30 years. No matter what type of roof you have, proper maintenance can help increase its lifespan. 

Benefits of a New Commercial Roof

Whether you’re looking for flat roof replacement or industrial roof replacement, installing a new commercial roof comes with plenty of benefits.

Safety and Reliability

Your roof’s most important job is to keep you, your customers, and your business safe. A new roof provides reliable protection against the weather so that you can feel confident in its longevity and quality.

Energy Efficiency

As your roof ages, it can lose indoor air through small cracks and damage in the membrane. Installing a new roof boosts insulation, helping you save on your commercial heating and cooling costs.

Insurance Compliance

An aging or damaged roof exposes you to liability and product insurance risks. By replacing your roof, you can provide your insurance company with proof of your building’s structural integrity (and hopefully lower your insurance premiums while you’re at it).

Call Bumble for an Inspection or Instant Quote Today

From repairing commercial roof damage to full roof replacements, our team provides expert commercial roofing services at prices that work. We service the SoSal area to bring you professional roof repairs, replacements, and roof inspections for business. Contact us today for your free quote inquiry or to book a free inspection and discover how Bumble’s no-pressure, expert-skills approach can support your commercial roofing needs.