Owners of commercial buildings know that a commercial or industrial roof requires more work than other standard types of roofs. While industrial flat roofing systems seem simpler to build, they require more maintenance and inspections to ensure that everything is functioning properly.

Problems on a commercial or industrial roof can happen to any building, at any time, however, most of these problems are largely preventable through proper planning. For example, investing in a commercial roofing company that uses high quality material and employs highly skilled commercial roofing contractors will be of great advantage to the lifespan of your industrial roof.

It may be difficult to know whether your commercial flat roof needs repairs, or if it needs to be replaced entirely. Several factors will influence the lifespan of your industrial roof. Design quality installation, roofing materials, maintenance, weather conditions, and roof use are just a few. The better you understand the types of problems that can cause damage to your commercial roof, the better you’ll be at knowing how to prevent it. 

That’s why we want to help! At Crown Industrial Roofing, we pride ourselves with professional integrity, honesty, and superior knowledge. We’ve listed for you some of the most common problems that occur on industrial and commercial flat roofs, and how best to deal with these issues depending on their severity.

1. Leaks & Moisture

This is probably the most common problem with industrial flat roofing. Leaks and lingering moisture can cause serious industrial roof damage if not promptly repaired. When a flat roof develops leaks, water won’t slope off. Instead, it will rest on the roof’s surface (otherwise known as pooling water) and eventually seep into the roof itself, causing problems that may lead to mold and fungus. 

Solution

In addition to hiring a trusted commercial roofing company to install a high quality industrial roofing system, the best way to prevent flat roof leaks and moisture build-up is to make sure that you have your roof inspected and maintenanced regularly. 

2. Splits and Fractures 

Because flat roofs are not sloped, but rather flat, they tend to have more pressure exerted on them. This means that pressure can build up, causing excessive stress, and therefore leading to splits and fractures. 

Solution

In the event that your industrial roof splits, you should contact a reputable commercial roofing company immediately. 

3. Blow-offs & Billowing 

Blow-offs, tenting, or billowing is often associated with poor installation of single ply roofing systems. In other words, these issues can occur if your industrial flat roof is not properly adhered to during its initial installation.

Solution

To avoid blow offs and billowing, it’s important to do your due diligence beforehand. Knowing which materials and method the industrial roofing company uses will be of great advantage to the lifespan of your roof. It’s also important to ask your flat roof contractor to provide the proper specifications when installing a new commercial roof.

4. Poor Installation

A faulty installation increases the likelihood of problems and will reduce the life expectancy of your commercial or industrial roofing system. Workmanship tends to be the most common issue or reason for future problems associated with your commercial roof. 

Solution

Always ensure quality over quantity. Just because the “price is right” doesn’t mean the job will be. Ensure that you select a certified and licensed roofing contractor, like Crown, before choosing or installing your new commercial or industrial flat roof.

GTA’s Trusted Commercial Flat Roofing Contractors 

If you have any questions about the condition of your commercial flat roof, or if you’re in need of industrial roofing repair, contact us today for your free commercial roof inspection. With more than 41 years of experience serving the Greater Toronto Area, we’ll be able to tell you exactly what’s going on with your roof, and we’ll also be able to provide a quick turnaround on your commercial roofing repairs.