Introduction
Commercial roofing systems are designed for durability—but they’re not invincible. Ignoring early warning signs can lead to structural damage, interior leaks, lost inventory, or even safety hazards. Whether you manage an office, warehouse, retail space, or multi-unit facility, these five critical signs mean it’s time to act before the damage escalates.
1. Ponding Water That Doesn’t Drain
Flat or low-slope roofs often collect water—but if it lingers for more than 48 hours, it’s a problem. Standing water accelerates membrane breakdown, adds weight load, and leads to leaks and internal mold issues.
What to look for:
-
Large puddles after rain
-
Depressions in roof surface
-
Early signs of algae or vegetation growth
2. Visible Surface Cracking or Blistering
Roof membranes (TPO, EPDM, modified bitumen) can degrade under extreme sun and temperature swings. Cracks, bubbles, or blisters often signal deeper issues with adhesion or moisture penetration.
Why it matters:
-
May indicate water trapped under the membrane
-
Leads to structural decay or full membrane failure
3. Interior Leaks or Water Stains
Leaks inside the building often appear far from the source on the roof. Ceiling stains, drips, and damp insulation are all warning signs the roofing system is compromised.
Don’t ignore:
-
Ceiling tile discoloration
-
Damp drywall or wall bubbling
-
Musty odors or HVAC moisture alerts
4. Loose Flashing or Edge Metal
Flashing seals the most vulnerable areas of your roof—edges, penetrations, HVAC units, skylights. When flashing begins to separate or lift, wind-driven rain can quickly enter and damage the roof deck.
Check for:
-
Metal flashing pulled away from seams
-
Rusted, bent, or gapped transitions
-
Gaps near pipes, drains, or vents
5. Increased Energy Bills
A failing commercial roof doesn’t just let in water—it lets out cooled air. Damaged insulation or compromised seams reduce thermal performance and drive up HVAC costs.
Red flags:
-
Sudden spike in heating or cooling costs
-
Uneven temperature zones in the building
-
Poor rooftop insulation or outdated materials
Don’t Wait—Commercial Roof Damage Moves Fast
Commercial roof issues aren’t just cosmetic—they impact operations, safety, and long-term asset value. Small signs today often lead to costly replacements if ignored.
At Integris Roofing + Construction, we specialize in diagnosing and restoring commercial roofing systems across Texas. Our team works with:
-
Flat and low-slope systems (TPO, EPDM, modified bitumen)
-
Metal and industrial-grade membrane systems
-
Multi-building portfolios and facility managers
-
Insurance-supported storm and weather damage claims