Inspecting a Commercial Roof: Is It Time for a Repair or Replacement

If a building owner asks for your opinion on whether they should repair or replace their roof, you will need to consider a few important factors. Roof Project From Start to Finish video series, veteran commercial roofing experts offer their expertise on roof inspection to help you evaluate the condition of roof critical areas.

Ask the building owner as many questions as possible about the roof. You may ask questions such as: Does the building owner know what roof system it is? What is the condition and age of the roof? Do they have any damage or leaks? What was the last time it was inspected or fixed, and how much traffic has it seen? You will be better equipped to determine the extent of repairs needed if you are familiar with the roof.

Dave and Wally, while talking with the owner of the first video Master’s Eye Inspection discover that they are examining a single-ply PVC roofing system which is 20 years old. They then determine if they would be able to help the owner by repairing or replacing the roof.

Perform the Inspection
Dave explains that he starts all inspections by focusing on safety. As soon as you reach the roof, take note of areas that could be a concern, such as skylights and roof edges, or tripping hazards. After you have completed your safety awareness routine, it is time to check the roof’s critical areas.

• Seams – The seams are vulnerable. They can loosen over time and need attention. Include them in your inspection. Wally and Dave noticed during their inspection that the PVC roofing in question had been repaired at one point with EPDM cover tape. This is a warning sign, because repairs made with non-compatible materials may cause the roof to fail prematurely.
• Rooftop equipment: Commercial roofs contain necessary equipment such as HVAC equipment, exhaust fans, and gas pipes. Note the condition of any supports that support the rooftop equipment. In Dave and Wally’s example, a modified bucket was used to cover a rusted gas pipe that ran along the roof. Combining extreme temperature fluctuations and exposure to the elements creates a perfect environment for the bucket’s degradation. This allows the rusted gas pipe to contact the membrane and cause further damage.
• Roof Ponding: Is there ponding water? Make sure the drains are clear of debris. Even if the drain is newer, the installation must be correct to remove the water from the roof. During Dave’s and Wally’s inspection they discovered that the roof was equipped with a newer drainage (pictured below), which had been installed incorrectly over the EPDM patched portion of the roof.
• Flashing – Rooftop penetrations can be a source of water infiltration when flashings fail. Check the condition of the roof flashing and whether or not the fasteners or welds are secure. You should be able to tell whether there has been a failure in the past and if any repairs have been made.Roof Replacement or Repair?
  Let the owner know after your inspection if they can repair their roof or if it needs to be replaced. You should help the owner to consider the long-term benefits of their decision. Commercial Roof Replacement in Riverside County is a good idea if the roof requires expensive repairs but will only last a few years. Roof repair is a great option if you have a simple problem that can be addressed. This will give the homeowner time to plan and budget for upcoming roof replacement.

Experts are always available to assist you. Browse our resources aimed at commercial contractors and tune in to the other Roof It Right with Dave & Wally Videos, which cover topics such as core cuts, tear offs, tapered roofing, single-ply roof tips and mistakes, application methods for TPO, and many more.