10 Common Problems With Commercial Roofing
Commercial roofing systems are built to withstand the elements and provide lasting protection for your business. But even the most durable roofs can encounter problems over time. At R Stevens Commercial Roofing, we’ve worked with thousands of clients to address roofing issues before they become costly disasters. In this post, we’ll cover the 10 most common problems with commercial roofing, how to spot them early, and what you can do to prevent or fix them.
Whether you own an office building, warehouse, retail center, or industrial facility, being informed is your first line of defense.
Roof Leaks and Moisture Intrusion
Roof leaks are the number one issue with commercial roofing systems. Water infiltration can cause structural damage, mold growth, and ruined insulation, leading to expensive repairs and health hazards. Moisture intrusion is a serious concern that needs immediate attention.
Causes include:
- Damaged or aging membranes
- Poorly sealed flashing
- Standing water or ponding
Solution: Regular inspections and maintenance. At R Stevens Commercial Roofing, our team uses infrared scanning to detect hidden leaks before they cause major damage. We offer free inspections so that your business roof can be certifiably safe and in good standing.
Poor Installation or Workmanship
Improper installation is one of the leading causes of early roof failure. Whether it’s poor workmanship, the wrong materials, or shortcuts during construction, a badly installed roof won’t last long.
Symptoms:
- Early blistering or wrinkling
- Loose flashing or membrane edges
- Fastener back-out
Solution: Always choose a certified and experienced commercial roofing contractor. At R Stevens Commercial Roofing, we follow manufacturer guidelines and provide warranties on all new roof installations.
Lack of Regular Maintenance
Routine maintenance is often overlooked, especially when the roof is out of sight. Neglect leads to wear and tear going unnoticed until it’s too late.
Consequences of no maintenance:
- Small issues become large problems
- Voided warranties
- Decreased roof lifespan
Solution: Implement a commercial roofing maintenance plan. This approach extends the lifespan of your roof and helps you manage costs more effectively. R Stevens Commercial Roofing offers custom maintenance programs to extend the life of your roof and keep repair costs low.
Contact us today at (973) 535 6500 to schedule your inspection. We will work with you to start a maintenance plan.
Ponding or Standing Water
Flat and low-slope commercial roofs are particularly vulnerable to ponding water—water that remains on the roof for over 48 hours after rainfall. The constant presence of standing water accelerates the deterioration of most roofing materials. This issue is a major contributor to leaks and must be addressed by improving the roof’s drainage system.
Causes:
- Poor drainage
- Blocked gutters or scuppers
- Inadequate slope design
Risks:
- Membrane degradation
- Structural damage
- Increased risk of leaks
Solution: Install proper drainage systems and have them cleaned regularly. We provide drainage evaluations and upgrades for flat roofing systems.
Punctures and Membrane Damage
The membrane is the protective outer layer of your commercial roof. Heavy foot traffic, dropped tools, HVAC work, or storm damage can puncture or tear your roofing membrane, leading to rapid water infiltration. Even a small hole in the membrane can break the watertight seal of your roofing system. This allows moisture to penetrate the layers below, leading to saturated insulation and potential leaks.
Common culprits:
- HVAC technicians
- Strong winds or hail
- Rooftop installations
Solution: Use walkway pads, restrict unauthorized access, and perform routine inspections—especially after storms or service calls. R Stevens Commercial Roofing provides 24/7 emergency commercial roof repair across New Jersey.
Damaged or Deteriorating Flashing
Flashing is the material, typically metal or a piece of the roof membrane, used to seal the roof system at its edges and penetrations. You will find it around vents, pipes, skylights, HVAC units, and along the perimeter walls. These areas are common failure points for leaks.
Causes:
- Improper installation
- Age
- Natural expansion and contraction of building materials.
When flashing pulls away, cracks, or rusts, it creates a direct path for water to enter your building.
Solution: Know your roof’s expected lifespan and plan proactively for replacement. R Stevens Commercial Roofing offers free roof condition reports and can help you budget for a future replacement or re-roofing project.
Blistering, Cracking, or Ridging
Blisters occur when air or moisture gets trapped between layers of roofing material. Cracks can appear as the material ages and loses its flexibility due to UV exposure, and ridging or wrinkling can signal issues with membrane adhesion.
While some small blisters, cracks, or ridiging may not be urgent, larger ones can burst and crack and expose the underlayers.
Causes:
- Poor ventilation
- Improper installation
- Trapped moisture
Solution: Inspect and monitor blisters and cracks closely. For larger issues, we can patch or recoat the affected areas using heat-welded membranes or liquid-applied solutions.
Clogged Drains, Gutters, and Scuppers
The drainage system on a flat roof is essential for preventing ponding water. Drains, scuppers, and gutters are designed to channel water off the roof efficiently. Blocked drainage systems can lead to water backing up onto the roof, increasing the chance of ponding, leaks, and structural damage.
Signs your drains may be clogged:
- Water stains on walls or ceilings
- Overflowing gutters
- Pooling around drain areas
Solution: Regular drain cleaning and gutter maintenance. R Stevens Commercial Roofing provides seasonal cleaning services as part of our preventative maintenance plans.
Weathering and UV Damage
Your commercial roof is constantly exposed to the elements. The sun’s ultraviolet rays are particularly damaging, causing roofing materials to break down and degrade over time. Extreme temperature fluctuations, high winds, hail, and heavy rain also contribute to the natural aging and weathering of your roof. While this process is unavoidable, certain measures like applying reflective coatings can help slow the effects of UV damage and extend the roof’s life.
Symptoms of Weathering and UV:
- Cracks and splits
- Discoloration
- Frequent repairs
Soultion: Invest in wind-resistant installation and regular inspections before extreme temperatures. R Stevens Commercial Roofing offers weather solutions to help protect your roof from the harsh elements.
Shrinkage of the Roof Membrane
Roof membranes, especially EPDM (rubber), can shrink over time due to weather exposure and UV radiation. Shrinkage pulls flashing away from walls, opens seams, and exposes the roof to leaks.
Warning signs:
- Visible pulling around edges
- Cracks in seams or flashing
- Wrinkled or distorted membrane
Solution: Use high-quality materials and install a UV-resistant coating. Regular inspections help detect early signs of shrinkage before repairs become expensive.
10 Common Problems With Commercial Roofing
A commercial roof is a complex system that faces numerous challenges, from leaks and ponding water to membrane damage and UV degradation. Many of these issues are interconnected, with a simple problem like a clogged drain leading to much more severe structural concerns
The key to a long-lasting, reliable roof is vigilance and proactive care. Regular professional inspections and a consistent maintenance schedule allow you to catch these common problems early. Addressing small issues promptly protects your investment and prevents them from escalating into costly, business-disrupting emergencies.
By partnering with a trusted expert like R Stevens Commercial Roofing, you can ensure your roof performs reliably year after year. Visit our office location today. We are located at 1312 Pleasant Valley Way, West Orange, NJ 07052.
