According to the United States Federal Emergency Management Agency, there are approximately 10,000 severe thunderstorms in the United States each year. These storms are often characterized by hail, strong winds, heavy rain, and lightning. These thunderstorms can lead to the total destruction of commercial roofing. You can find out more about hail damage, high winds, and other factors that could cause roof damage. You can see the effects of hail and wind damage, and why you should contact a commercial roofing company immediately after a storm.
Signs that Wind Damage Has Happened to Your Roof
If your roof has any of the following, it could be at risk for wind damage
Peeled back coverings
Wind uplift pressure can cause roof damage, particularly if your building is tall and winds are strong. This can cause the roof’s corners to weaken over time. A keen inspection will reveal areas where the roof’s coverings have begun to peel back. You should contact a professional roofing contractor immediately if you notice any damage to the roof.
Displaced Rooftop Accessories
Your roof could be suffering from high winds if accessories such as your satellite dish are misplaced or moved to another place. Your roofing membrane could be damaged by this. High winds can blow out chimney vents and chimney caps, allowing water into your building.
Signs that hail damage has occurred to your commercial roof
Hail damage is not visible like wind damage. However, it can cause hail damage to commercial roofs.
EPDM Hail Damage
You might notice hail damage signs on your roof such as cracks or circular patterns from hail puncturing.
Thermoplastic Roof Hail Damage
Thermoplastic roofing membranes last a lifetime. They can withstand hailstones up to three-quarter inch thick. To increase hail damage resistance, you can have cover boards placed under the thermoplastic membrane.
Be aware of deterioration such as circular patterns and crow’s feet cracks in TPO or PVC roofing systems.
Metal Roof Hail Damage
If your panels are constantly being hit by hailstones, they may develop dents. Although they may be unpleasant to look at, dents won’t cause any damage to the metal panels’ watertightness. You should have cracked roofs repaired by an experienced professional.
Hail Damage to Built-Up Asphalt Roofs and Modified Bitumen
MB and BUR are the most resistant roofing systems to hail. They provide additional protection due to their two-ply construction and gravel surface. They are very durable.
If hail damage causes cracks in the membrane reinforcements or is causing asphalt granules to be lost on your roof, call an expert roofer.
Other Reasons for Commercial Roof Damage
Commercial roofing is vital for large-scale commercial buildings. 1 priority. Other top causes of roof damage in commercial buildings include:
Standing Water
Water can pool if your drains are blocked or your roof design is poor. Water pooling on a commercial roof can cause damage to the surrounding materials and lead to a leaky problem.
There may be standing water on your roof due to inattention during installation, or a blocked HVAC. We recommend that you have the problem fixed immediately by a skilled roofer.
Stains and Mold
If you notice stains on your ceiling, it is likely that your commercial roofing is in danger. You can identify the problem areas by looking at the discoloration of the roof. You may not notice signs of a leak until it is too late. You will soon be dealing with mold and rot if you do not address the water damage.
Each season presents a risk to your commercial roof’s integrity. Your roof could be damaged by hail, wind, storms, or high winds. High winds can tear through roofing membranes and cause debris to fly onto your roof. Hail can cause roof damage and loosen roofing accessories. Protect your commercial roof by having it inspected regularly by a professional roofing contractor before any storms strike. A professional roofer will also be able to recommend safety precautions that can minimize damage.
