Dealing with Common Commercial Roof Problems

Proper roof maintenance is essential to keep your commercial roof performing throughout its service life. When your commercial roof reaches the latter part of its expected life span, roof problems can begin to appear. It’s best to work with a qualified expert like us to keep your roof in good condition.

KangaRoof Austin, the expert in asphalt roofing and commercial roof materials, discusses these common problems of low-slope roofs:

Roof Blow-Off

Improper installation of flashing can lead to open seams and laps that ultimately cause blow-offs and reduced puncture resistance. Other problems include an inadequate number of fasteners in the base sheet during the application of torch-applied modified bitumen systems and inadequately cured seams on cold-applied modified bitumen systems. Single-ply roofs are also at risk of billowing if installers do not properly attach the material to the substrate. KangaRoof Austin can inspect your roof and determine if these problems may occur in the future. We can then correct these mistakes and reinforce your roof.

Roof Leaks

Improperly applied flashing can also cause roof leaks. Other causes include an improperly installed moisture barrier. Moisture can also infiltrate a modified bitumen roof through inadequate head laps and backwater laps. Water gets under the membrane and causes leaks and blisters, eventually leading to roof failure. Poor seams in single-ply membrane roofs can also allow water infiltration. If you suspect a leak, contact us. We can work on TPO roofing systems, modified bitumen roofing systems, asphalt shingles, and standing seam metal roofs to prevent leaks from becoming a problem.

Roof Punctures

Heavy foot traffic can be a problem, particularly with single-ply or spray polyurethane foam roof systems. Traffic can cause cuts and scrapes to the membrane and damage to the underlying substrate. This can lead to leaks and premature problems with the roof membrane. We recommend limiting foot traffic and regular roof inspections. You also need to be careful when adding new equipment or penetrations to your existing roof. We recommend working with our qualified professionals, so we can prevent roof punctures and leaks when you add new penetrations.

The largest source of leaks on commercial roofs comes from HVAC technicians leaving old screws on the roof. Later, when someone steps on that screw, it punches a hole through your waterproofing membrane, causing a leak. We recommend that you always ask your HVAC technician for a photo of the area where he worked to help you save money performing costly repairs.

KangaRoof Austin can help you with all of your commercial roofing problems. We can help you develop a preventive maintenance program that deals with all of these common roof problems. Our services can make sure that your roof can adequately protect your building even as the material ages. We are a specialist in modified bitumen, asphalt shingle, standing seam metal, and TPO roofing. We serve many communities, including Round Rock, Austin, and Georgetown. Give us a call to learn more about the common problems of low-slope roofs. You can also request a free estimate for a full replacement.