Evaluating the true health of your commercial roof

By Greenwood Industries.  

A roof’s condition matters more than its age, and regular maintenance can extend its life beyond the warranty period. 

Commercial roofing systems are designed for long service lives, but determining exactly when a roof has reached its end is not always straightforward. Greenwood Industries wants you to know that while most commercial roofs are backed by a 20-year warranty, the actual lifespan often depends on several factors, including frequency of inspections, maintenance and repairs over time. A roof that receives regular preventative care can perform well beyond its warranty period, while one that is neglected may fail much sooner. That’s why property owners should know the signs of roof wear and contact professional roofing contractors in a proactive manner.  

Signs it’s time for a roof replacement 

1 - Persistent leaks 

This one is obvious. If leaks are becoming a recurring issue, especially after major storms, it’s likely your roof system needs extensive repairs or a full re-roof. 

2 - Visible membrane damage 

Cracks, ridges or punctures in the roof membrane compromise the integrity of the system and indicate it may be nearing the end of its service life. 

3 - Membrane flaking 

On EPDM roofs, a common warning sign is membrane flaking. If you rub your finger across the surface and material flakes off, the roof has reached the end of its useful life. 

4 - Wet insulation 

If large sections of your roof feel soft underfoot, this often means water has infiltrated the system. Wet insulation loses effectiveness and can quickly lead to widespread structural issues. 

5 - Changes in building usage 

If your property is undergoing a significant change in use — such as installing heavy rooftop equipment, expanding occupancy or increasing energy demands — a new roof system may be necessary to support those changes. 

Replacement isn’t always the only option 

In some cases, a full replacement may not be needed right away. If the roof membrane is still in good shape, a roof restoration can extend the life of your system for several more years. 

We specialize in roof restorations that extend the lifespan of aging commercial roofs while giving property owners peace of mind. Our experts can assess your system and recommend whether restoration or replacement is the best option for your building. 

Original article and photo source: Greenwood Industries