The roof can aptly be termed as any commercial building’s first line of defense in case of hail, wind, fire, snow, and heavy rains.

It can also be the most sensitive part of a building, if not built and maintained properly. Roofs are exposed to extreme weather conditions and other elements which contribute to its degrading and deterioration.

This article revolves around ways one can identify and address the most common trouble spots on a roof, and how to fix them before it’s too late.

Recognizing the Signs of a Roof Problem

Signs and symptoms of a serious roof problem are apparent even from the inside of the building. Water stains on ceilings may be an indication of a crack or a hole in the roof. It is important not to ignore even the smallest of cracks, as they can be a sign of a big trouble.

A building owner can run a quick inspection if the slope of the roof allows it, but it is always safer to hire a professional.

What to Look for on the Roof—the Visual Clues

Ponding: Water can cause excessive damage to your roof. Prolonged standing water, also known as ponding can break through the protective covering of the roof which results in leakages and mold formation. Undetected leaks can result in rusted steel roof decks, and rotten wood decks. It can also turn light weight insulating concrete and gypsum decks into heavy paste. Additional weight as a result of standing water can lead to weakening of the roof.

Bubbles: Bubble formation in the roof is a string indication of moisture trapped within the roof cover. It reduces the life span of the cover, and causes premature aging of the roof.

Roof Flashing: It is the strips of any metal or other impervious material built around the perimeters of roof edge where the roof cover meets the wall. A gap between flashing and the wall increases the risk of failure of roof cover during extreme weather conditions such as winds, rains, and snowfall etc. This is why flash repair becomes top most priority of commercial building owners in case of a tear or a gap.

The ideal way to avoid any roof related problems is preventive maintenance and care. Proper maintenance not only prolongs the life of your roof, but also keeps your building in optimum condition.

Haralson Roofing is a premium roofing company that offers comprehensive care, maintenance and repair options. Log on to their website, http://www.haralsonroofing.com/ today and book an appointment for inspection.