Unless your roof is falling apart at the seams, damage isn’t always apparent. Usually, it takes a thorough roof inspection to uncover underlying issues that may result in a mandatory replacement.
How Do You Know If Your Roof Is Damaged?
Many property owners pay little to no attention to their roof unless it’s showing obvious signs of damage. For this reason, legitimate roofing contractors recommend routine repairs and ongoing roof maintenance. By taking these proactive measures, you mitigate the risk of severe issues with your roof, which are expensive, inconvenient, and dangerous to the building’s occupants.
If you can’t recall your last roof inspection, it’s probably past due for a wellness check. Don’t wait to call a professional to perform a high-level analysis of your structure. They’re trained to pinpoint potential roofing issues and take the best course of action to eliminate them. Your roof deck isn’t easy to assess if you’re not a certified roofing professional, so make sure you hire contractors to get the job done right.
What Are the Interior Signs of Roof Damage?
Chances are, you spend much more time inside your building than on the rooftop. So you’re more likely to notice signs of damage indoors. Water stains on the walls and ceilings indicate that moisture has seeped beneath the surface. Excessive moisture is one of the quickest ways to ruin a roofing system. The underlayment and roofing materials start to deteriorate, leaving the structure vulnerable to leaks, mold, and mildew. At this point, you’ll likely need a replacement.
If you notice discoloration or an unpleasant smell, get your roof checked out right away. These issues may seem minor, but they should be addressed as soon as possible. Some mold can be toxic when people are exposed to it in large amounts, and mold is especially harmful to those with allergies or asthma. If it gets out of control, it causes illnesses ranging from watery eyes and runny noses to nausea and respiratory issues. For these reasons, mold should be removed immediately.
What Are the Exterior Signs of Roof Damage?
Natural wear and tear is unavoidable. Your roof constantly endures the brunt of the elements, which causes gradual degradation. As temperatures fluctuate from cold to hot, roof expansion and contraction cause visible damage.
When your roofing contractor climbs the roof, they look closely and verify its condition. When your roof’s sustained extensive wear and tear, repairs won’t suffice. At that point, It’s time for a replacement if there are large areas of missing materials or cracks and punctures in the surface.
Roof Damage Costs You in More Ways Than One
The longer you let damage linger, the more money it will cost to address the issues. However, energy preservation can’t be achieved either with extensive roofing issues. When your roof has openings and cracks in the surface, it causes heating and cooling inefficiencies that’ll reflect on your utility bills.
When outdoor air enters your building through openings in the roof, your HVAC system overexerts itself to stabilize indoor temperatures. However, a properly sealed and insulated roof system helps the building naturally maintain its comfortable climates. As a result, you minimize thermostat manipulation.
How Long Does a Roof Last on Average?
Depending on the roofing system, a commercial roof’s average service life is about 20 to 30 years. It’s wise to know the age of your roof to stay in compliance with insurance terms and conditions. Doing so helps you maintain full coverage, as older roofs can be denied since they’re deemed a soon-to-come liability.
Some industry-leading roofing materials and their life expectancy include:
- EPDM – 20 to 35 years
- TPO – 20 to 30 years
- PVC – 20 to 30 years
If your property was built decades ago and never had a roof replacement, it’s probably time to start budgeting for one. After the countless hail storms, high winds, and scorching hot summers, you may be wondering, “How often should you replace your roof?” As long as you’re keeping up with routine maintenance and prioritizing repairs, you shouldn’t need a new roof unless it’s past the 20-year mark.
What Is an Alternative to a Roof Replacement?
It’s wise to let legitimate roofing contractors determine what’s best for your building, whether you need repairs or a replacement. However, some properties are eligible for roof restoration. This is when your roof needs extensive repairs, but it doesn’t require a complete tear off and replacement.
Roof restoration is less expensive than a replacement. Plus, it adds up to 20 years of service life to your existing structure. If your commercial roof still has plenty of life but needs a quick revival, consider roof restoration to make it as good as new.
New Image Roofing in Florida Specializes in Commercial Roof Replacement
If signs you need a new roof are beginning to stand out more, call New Image Roofing Orlando. We’re familiar with the various weather conditions of the Florida region, so our team’s extensive firsthand understanding is an additional advantage of working with us. We offer several more benefits, including:
- Free inspections
- Free consultations
- Price match guarantee
New Image goes the extra mile to exceed your requirements and leave you amazed at the quality of your new roof. Since our skill set is all-inclusive, we’re steadily making a name for ourselves as Florida’s premier roofing company. From residential properties to commercial buildings, we aim to impress with every project. Reach out to us today to learn more about our dynamic solutions.