Owning and operating a business can be stressful and time-consuming in itself. Dealing with a leaking commercial roof on top of everything else can make a challenging situation even worse. Thankfully, there are solutions available to help tackle this problem so that you and your team can stay safe and dry. Taking quick action is important as it will help to minimize the damage. Our team at Yutzy’s Roofing Service is available to help.
Recognizing the Signs of Commercial Roof Leaks
It is common for commercial roof leaks to develop after storms. However, they can also develop as a result of activity on the roof, the failure of equipment that is on the roof, or improper maintenance. In addition, a roof can develop vulnerabilities as it ages. It is important to recognize common signs of commercial roof leaks to ensure you can get the issue corrected as soon as possible.
Stained Walls or Ceilings
A leak on your commercial roof may result in spotting and staining on the ceiling and walls inside your structure. If you notice any blisters, bubbles, stains, or efflorescence on masonry surfaces, it can indicate that water is penetrating through the roof.
Pungent and Musty Odors
In some cases, mold can develop and create a pungent odor. If you notice an unusual dampness in the air or a musty smell, it could indicate that there is water coming through the building.
Dripping Water or Puddles
One of the most common signs of a leaking roof is water dripping inside your commercial property. In some cases, you may notice puddles of water develop on the floor, particularly after storms. It is important to have a roof inspection to determine if a leak is causing the roof or if the water is from another source, such as dripping ductwork or overhead water lines leaking.
In many cases, commercial roof leaks are caused by flashing issues or failed caulk. They can also be caused by cuts or punctures in the roof or inadequate maintenance of fans, air conditioning units, or other rooftop equipment. Routine maintenance can help to detect and prevent these issues. However, if there is a leak, you need to address it quickly to prevent further damage.
What to Do After Spotting a Commercial Roof Leak
After detecting a possible leak on your commercial roof, there are a few steps that you need to take.
Identify the Source
Identifying the source of the commercial roof leak is critical. It is important to determine if you have water penetrating the roof or if another issue is causing the leak. Some common causes of leaks include:
- Pest infestations
- Failures in the flashing
- Cracks in the roof membrane
- Problems with the heating, cooling, or plumbing systems
- Clogged gutter systems
To determine the cause of the leak, you should inspect your building’s drywall to determine if it is damaged.
Mark the Location of the Leak
If there is spotting or leaking on your drywall, ceiling, or anywhere in your structure, mark the location. Being able to identify the source of the leak can help your roofing repair specialist get to work quickly on addressing the issue.
If you are able to do so, mark the area of the leak as soon as possible, even if it is actively leaking through. This can help to ensure the area is known even if the leak stops and the area dries up.
It is important to let other workers know about the leak and rope or block off the area if possible. This will ensure their safety and prevent any slip and fall accidents.
Take Steps to Minimize Damage
You should clear the affected area to ensure you do not experience further damage. This can include removing any supplies or equipment from the area that is exposed to the leak. If you are unable to relocate the items physically, cover them with a tarp or a thick plastic to protect them from water damage.
Look For Other Contributing Issues
Noticing water entering your commercial property does not always mean that the roof in the area is where the leak is. This is particularly true if you notice water leaking into your structure, but it is not raining outside.
Water has the ability to travel a significant distance before actually penetrating the ceiling. It may travel along ductwork or even along structural members. If you have a flat room, there is a chance that the water may be puddling from a previous storm. You should look for any details of the leak that may help to pinpoint the source.
Notify Your Insurance Company
After you get the situation under control, it is important to reach out to your insurance company. Your commercial property’s insurance policy may provide coverage for the roof leak and any interior damage. It is best to work with your insurance agent to determine what is covered under your policy so that you can get the funding needed to get your repairs done quickly.
It can also help to inspect any roof warranty information, if applicable. Roofing companies, manufacturers, and other parties may offer insurance for any damage to your structure or equipment, so it is best to review this information to determine the extent of coverage available to you.
What Needs to Be Done?
After determining the cause of the leak and the extent of the damage, there are several options available to help remedy the situation. These include:
- Repair the damaged area: If the damage is minimal and only in one specific area, it may be helpful to repair the area. In many cases, this is a temporary solution that may need to be addressed again in the future.
- Replace the entire roof: If the roof is dated or has widespread damage, the best option may be to replace the entire roofing system. This can help to protect your structure and ensure the roof is in good working condition for many years to come. Your roofing company may offer a warranty to protect your roof in the future from any leaks or issues, should they arise.
- Restore the top coating: Depending on the type of roof you have on your commercial property, you may be able to have the top coating replaced. This will create a seamless finish to your roof and keep water from penetrating it in the future.
It is best to seek guidance from a skilled professional to ensure your property does not experience any further damage.
Seek Help for Your Commercial Roof Leak in Marshfield, WI
Getting the leak fixed as soon as possible can help to minimize any future losses or damages. Seeking help from a skilled roofing professional can help to ensure you are in the best position possible to deal with an unexpected leak on your commercial property.
Our roofing experts at Yutzy’s Roofing Service can help you identify the source of your commercial roof leak and take the steps necessary to mitigate the issue. Since 1995, our team has served business owners and commercial property owners across Marshfield, WI. We are committed to providing top-quality services for all of our clients and to helping them stay safe and dry.
All of our systems come with a 20-year warranty that includes full labor and materials, providing you with peace of mind in knowing that you can depend on our team to help. If you are interested in scheduling a roof inspection or getting help with a leak on your commercial roof, contact our team now for a free estimate by calling 715-897-5017.
