Oftentimes, commercial roofs are flat, which can cause a number of problems if the roof is not properly installed or maintained. Flat roofs are more susceptible to pooling water, debris, and leaks, as well as buckling. Avoiding these problems by working with a reputable, experienced commercial roofing company can help to extend the life of your roof. 

In today’s blog post, we are going to discuss some of the most common problems that occur to flat roofs. Continue reading to learn more, and if you are in need of assistance from a commercial roofing company, it’s time to contact Denali Roofing in Fort Collins. We offer roof repair, roof replacement, and preventative roof maintenance to northern Colorado and southern Wyoming. If you aren’t sure whether you require roof repair or replacement, we can perform a free roof inspection to determine the condition of your roof and decide on the best plan of action. Contact our experienced roofing contractors today to learn more. 

Standing Water

Since flat roofs do not have the angle of a sloped roof, it is easier for water to pool. If pooled water isn’t removed, it can cause damage to your commercial roof that will result in leaks which can damage your business and your inventory.  

Alligatoring

Alligatoring, or blistering, which occurs from the sun is more often found on flat commercial roofs. The heat from the sun causes the roof to crack and bubble, resembling the skin of an alligator. Many times, this is a sign that you are in need of a roof replacement.

Debris

Since flat roofs don’t have an extreme angle or slope, it’s much easier for debris to collect on your commercial roof. Debris like leaves and branches can block drainage and cause problems with standing water. Even worse, piles of leaves can hold moisture which freezes in the winter and thaws when the temperature rises, causing further damage to your roof. 

Buckling

Your roof will naturally settle and shift over time, and this is typically accounted for when your roof is installed. However, when it comes to flat roofs, the problem lies in the one continuous sheet of membrane that is commonly used. The shifting and settling can cause the membrane to buckle. If not prevented or taken care of right away, buckling can lead to the need for a premature roof replacement. 

Blow-Offs 

Since flat roofs are lacking an angle — and shingles — a blow-off is not as easily fixed as with a residential roof. When a shingle or two gets blown off, it’s easy to replace and repair that section. However, since a flat roof is one sheet of material, wind can wreak havoc if it gets below the edge of your roof. Oftentimes, this problem is caused by an improperly installed roof. 

Leaking

All of the problems that we have discussed thus far can lead to a leaking roof. Unfortunately, flat roofs are more susceptible to leaking and a leak can occur for even more reasons than the ones we have discussed. For instance, damaged flashing, poor installation, substandard materials, and the age of your roof can all contribute to leaking as well. 

Improper Installation

If you own a commercial building, one of the most important decisions you can make is who to choose as your roofing contractor. Improper roof installation can cause all of the problems we have discussed today, plus more. An improperly installed roof can damage your inventory and business. Make sure you choose an experienced and professional roof company like Denali Roofing for your roof replacement and repairs to ensure that you are receiving quality service at a fair price. 

Insufficient Angle

Flat roofs are not supposed to be 100% flat. They need to have a slight angle or gradient to encourage proper drainage. If your commercial roof was installed at an insufficient angle it can lead to increased occurrences of pooled water, debris, and other issues. 

Your Top Rated Local® Commercial Roofing Contractor

If you are searching for an experienced, professional roofing contractor in northern Colorado or southern Wyoming, look no further than Denali Roofing. We take immense pride in getting the job done right the first time and ensuring that our customers have an excellent experience. Whether you are in need of commercial roof replacement or roof repair, we can help. Contact the Denali Roofing team today and schedule your free roof inspection.