When it comes to extreme weather conditions – protection comes from the top. Whatever the size, shape or capacity of your facility, your roof plays a vital role in keeping your site safe, dry and running smoothly.
But long-term exposure to rain, wind, frost, snow and UV light takes its toll. And, without regular checks and maintenance, even small signs of wear and tear can develop into serious damage – causing business downtime and costly repair.
To keep your roof in top condition, you need to stay on top of inspections, identifying small issues before they become big problems and extending the lifespan of your roof.
Follow our guide to learn more about common roofing issues, visible warning signs and how to identify and repair them with help from our experts and a Free Site Survey.
Weathering
Each season brings its own challenging conditions, from wind and rain to extreme temperatures and harsh UV light. Over the years, this will build up to cause gradual deterioration of your roof.
How to identify weather-related deterioration:
- Noticeable fading or patchy discolouration
- Coatings that have become chalky, brittle or degraded
- Peeling, flaking or loss of the surface coating
- Deterioration around exposed edges and flashing
Pooling Water
This is a problem particularly common in flat roofs. Heavy or persistent rainfall can cause temporary water retention, but this should be managed through drainage and waterproofing. So, if you’re seeing persistent pooling or ponding water on your roof, there may be an underlying problem that needs to be addressed. Left untreated, standing water can deteriorate the roof surface and lead to leaks.
How to identify pooling water:
- Pools of water that remain long after rainfall
- Water marks or rings on the roof surface
- Algae, moss or other growth in damp areas
- Blocked or slow-draining outlets and gutters
- Sagging or depressions that appear to retain water
Cracks & splits
Temperature changes throughout the year can cause your roof membrane to contract and expand, leading to cracks and splits forming over time.
How to identify cracks and splits:
- Visible cracks or splits in the roof surface
- Seams or joints that appear to be separating
- Brittle or visibly deteriorated surface materials
Corrosion
An issue for metal roofing and cladding systems, corrosion occurs following prolonged exposure to rain and moisture in the air. Cut edge corrosion is a particular issue for cladding as when the sheets are cut to size, the cut edge is exposed and more prone to deterioration.
How to identify corrosion:
- Rust-coloured marks or staining on metal sheets
- Visible rust along cut edges, overlaps and fixings
- Rough or deteriorating metal surfaces
- Localised damage around joints and areas where water collects
Leaks
Roof leaks can spring from a number of sources, from damaged membranes and failed joints to pooling water or cracked surfaces. Whatever the reason, immediate action is the best way to stop a leak in its tracks – before it causes serious damage to the interior of your building.
How to identify a roof leak:
- Water stains or discolouration on ceilings and internal walls
- Damp patches, peeling paint or blistering finishes
- Dripping water during or after rainfall
- Musty smells or signs of mould and mildew
Surface damage
Falling branches, debris and general wear and tear, it’s almost impossible to prevent some surface damage to your roof. The important thing is to keep on top of it, checking to see whether the damage is cosmetic, or more significant.
How to identify surface damage:
- Scratches or scuff marks
- Areas where the paint or protective finish has worn away
- Exposed metal beneath damaged coatings
- Peeling or flaking around damaged areas
- Impact marks caused by debris or overhanging branches
Damaged detailing
Flashings, joints, seams and areas around vents, lights and hatches are vital to your roof’s overall performance and require their own maintenance.
How to identify damaged roof detailing:
- Flashings that have lifted, cracked or pulled away
- Gaps or separation around lights, vents and hatches
- Deteriorated seals or visible gaps at joints
- Water staining near internal walls, roof edges or penetrations
Inspecting your roof
From regular visual checks to scheduling in extra inspections after bouts of extreme weather, building roof maintenance into your routine is the best way to stay on top of maintenance and extend the lifespan of your facility roof.
And whether you’ve checked over your roof and found a few causes for concern, or you’re not sure where to start, our team of experts are on hand to help.
With a Free Site Survey, an expert will come to your facility to assess its overall condition, consider your individual issues, and advise on solutions that are tailor-made to the needs of your business. Book yours here.