3 Important Signs Your Commercial Building’s Metal Roof Needs Replacing

Metal roofing is a popular choice for commercial roofing because it’s known for its longevity, but like anything else, it will eventually need replacing. While proper installation and maintenance can ensure your metal roofing system lasts for decades, it’s important to identify the warning signs so that you can know when it’s time for a replacement.

It may be time to replace your roofing if you notice any of the following:

Rust

Rust is not only a sign that the metal is beginning to tarnish, it’s a good indication that the protective coating on your roof has also deteriorated. Once the finish or coating is gone, moisture and water come into direct contact with the metal, which ultimately leads to rusting. Pending an inspection, most commercial building owners don’t notice the rust until the roof is leaking, which is why it’s important to perform regular inspections of your commercial metal roof. If you’re between professional inspections here are a few places where you can look for signs of rusting: flashings, vents, skylights, seams, ridge caps, fasteners, or any other place where the roofing is penetrated.

Leaking

Whether you’ve noticed small leaks or large leaks in your commercial metal roofing system, the first thing you should do is get a professional inspection from a company like WaterTight Roofing. As mentioned, leaks can be caused by rust, but there are several other reasons your roof might be leaking. If panels have warped over time or have become loose due to bad weather conditions, water can easily penetrate through new openings. Additionally, if water is leaking through your roof and making it to a noticeable area, then it’s important to understand that everything in between that area and the point of penetration has been exposed to water. While water might not seem incredibly troublesome at first, it can damage electrical systems, and building materials, and lead to hazardous mold growth.

Loose Panels

As mentioned, loose metal roof panels can lead to leaking and expensive damage to your commercial building. Loose panels from storms, high winds, and warping can also compromise the security of your facility. While thieves generally try to force their way in through doors and windows, loose metal roof panels can also provide an easy way into your facility. Small rodents and other animals and insects will also identify loose roof panels as an easy way in and love building nests in temperature-controlled environments. A nest of opossums in the ceiling or wall of your commercial facility is both a safety and a health hazard and can lead to big extermination and cleaning costs.

Weather and age are typically the culprits when it comes to having to replace your commercial metal roof. Over time elements like rust, leaking, and loose roof panels can lead to big expenses on top of already having to replace your entire roof. Being proactive and performing regular inspections can not only help you identify when you need to replace your roof but also help you save money in the long run.

For more information about replacing your commercial metal roof contact WaterTight Roofing today: 888.809.9976