When it contains the best material, a metal roof can last for fifty years. Once you are near the end of that time, the roof might start to show signs that it needs replacement. If your commercial building has a metal roof that has been in place for decades, it may need a new one. To determine if this is the case, a roofing contractor will look for the following signs as it inspects your roof:
Screws Holes in the Flat Roof Repair Materials Metal Have Expanded
When a roof is held in place by screws, the screw holes gradually expand as the metal expands and contracts. Expanded screw holes cause two problems: they allow water to seep under the metal, causing water damage to the deck; and, when they become wider than the screw heads, they can cause metal paneling to fall away.
Most metal roofs do not experience these problems for decades. However, as they enter the final quarter of their lifespan, having them inspected for expanded screw holes could prevent extensive roof damage, especially in the event of severe weather.
Metal Panels are starting What Is The Peak Of A Roof Called to Buckle
Metal panels buckle for one of two reasons: they were installed incorrectly, or they are damaged due to weather exposure. In either case, commercial roofing replacement is the obvious solution. In some cases, a commercial roofing company can detect that metal panels are buckling by observing them from the ground. However, a rooftop inspection should still be performed to assess the extent of the problem.
Joints are in Poor Condition
The joints of a roof receive more weather exposure than its other parts. Consequently, they are typically the first parts to show signs of weather damage. Pitting, rusting and corrosion along joint lines are three signs that joints are in poor condition. The primary risk of damaged joints is water damage to the deck – a problem that could increase the cost of roof replacement significantly.
Decking is Waterlogged
Water logged decking is usually a symptom of other problems, particularly the ones above. Once a roof deck becomes saturated with moisture, it is only a matter of time before the signs of a water-damaged roof – such as mold and water spots on ceilings – are seen on the inside of a building.
Because water can seep through the smallest openings, having a roof inspected for a damaged deck annually is a smart idea.
Repair versus Replacement
Understandably, most building owners would rather have a roof repaired than replaced; and in many cases, damaged commercial roofing needs repair or restoration, not replacement. There are also cases when repairing a metal roof could cost more than replacing it. The four problems above are indicators that replacing a roof would be the most economical option.
If you suspect that your building’s roof needs replacement, addressing the problem now could minimize the cost of replacing it, and prevent your building from experiencing problems such as ceiling damage and mold growth. For more information on repairing and replacing metal roofing, contact a commercial roofing company today.
