3 Common Reasons for Commercial Roof Leaks

When you hear about leaky roofs, people often think about homes on a rainy day. They don’t think about commercial buildings, which can also suffer damage and allow for moisture to enter. There are many ways for commercial facilities to spring leaks. In this blog, we’ll be going over some of the most common reasons for breaches in commercial roofs.

1. Old Roofs

While they may seem like a constant, roofs do have a lifespan. The average flat roof has about 15 to 20 years until it needs to be replaced. While your roof can certainly be repaired and waterproofed, you may notice that the endless repairs and maintenance just may not be worth it anymore. If you’re finding that you call on a roofing professional every other month, it may be time to consider a full replacement of your commercial roof. 

2. Pooling Water

One of the most common sources of leaks comes from pooling water. If your roof has areas that aren’t totally level, water can collect in puddles. Roofs are large structures, and water can weigh about five pounds per square inch. This can put great strain on your roof, causing cracks that water can travel through. 

To fix your pooling water problem, you’ll need a roofing expert to level the roof and/or fix the drainage system. Being able to disperse water and prevent heavy puddles from forming is the key to decreasing the likelihood of leaks. 

3. Flashing Damage

If you aren’t already familiar, flashing is the term for the protective layer around your roof membrane’s edges. It also seals the area around things that pass through your roof, like chimneys and vents. From inclement weather to changing temperatures, flashing can experience wear and tear. At a certain point, this wear and tear results in a source for leaks. 

Without quality, maintained flashing, your commercial roof is ripe for leaks with multiple access points for water. This what makes roofing maintenance so important. If you aren’t getting your roof checked at least once a year, you may be suffering from damaged flashing and not know it. The best defense against roof leaks is a good offense!

While there are many other causes for potential leaks, one thing remains true: having a certified home inspector check your roof annually is the best way to spot small problems before they turn into big ones. Matrix Roofing Systems is the Mid-Atlantic region’s top roofing expert. To protect your commercial roof from leaks, give us a call today!

Is Your Commercial Roof Ready for the Summer Weather?

Your commercial roof goes through a lot with each season, but it can really go through the ringer during the summer. The summer season can put a lot of stress on your roofing due to the weather and climate. This stress can lead to damage, which is why it is so important to stay on top of your roof’s maintenance during these next few months.

The heat of summer is one of the biggest culprits of commercial roof damage. Heat causes materials to expand; once the sun sets and temperatures decrease, the roof will begin to shrink again. This daily process results in wear and tear that can weaken the integrity of your roofing.

Summer is also known for severe thunderstorms, especially in the Mid-Atlantic region. If your roof already has leaks or cracks that have not been addressed, you may start to notice them once water damage begins to rear its ugly head. From leaks to pooling water, summer storms are no friend to the commercial roof.

The best way to stay on top of the safety of your roof is through commercial roof inspection. Your facility’s roof plays a huge role in the overall safety and value of your operation. Similar to how you inspect your vehicle periodically to make sure all of the parts are healthy and operational, your commercial roof needs the same level of care. An inspector can review your roofing system, notice any areas of damage, and identify areas that can be fixed now before the issue gets worse.

Make sure to have your roof inspected as soon as possible. The sooner you address any possible issues with your roofing, the less likely it will be that summer heat and storms will exacerbate these problems. Damage to your roof tends to have a snowball effect, where some weakened areas spread damage to other areas. Through a professional inspection, you can nip these issues in the bud and worry about running your business.

At Matrix Roofing, our team of professionals offers more than 120+ years of combined experience in roofing inspections and evaluations. We offer service throughout the Mid-Atlantic region of the United States, so give us a call today to learn more about how we can help you!

The Best Ways to Maintain Your Roof

Managing a commercial property or running a facility is a lot of work. It is understandable that certain things can fall off your radar when you’re handling your day-to-day. One item that should not be ignored, however, is the maintenance of your commercial roof. As the most essential part of any structure, your commercial roof needs to remain in tip-top shape in order to avoid expensive repairs or full replacement. 

The saying “A good defense is a good offense” is very apt when it comes to roof of a facility. Staying on top of maintenance can save money and keep an operation moving smoothly. Below are some of the best ways that you can manage your commercial roof maintenance:

Keep it Clean
One way to get the most out of your commercial roof is through cleanliness. When loose material like twigs, leaves and rocks accumulate on a roof, they contribute to clogs, standing water, and the growth of algae. All these result in the deterioration of the roof, making it important to remove all debris on a regular basis. 

Stay on Top of Leaks
Whether the cause stems from the weather or accumulation of debris, leaks are a common occurrence for commercial roofs. As soon as you notice an area of seepage or a full leak, call a repair as soon as possible. Leaks can become more than just a hassle and have the potential to cause electrical damage, equipment/inventory damage, or even the entire collapse of your roof. 

Schedule Regular Inspections
It does pay to be observant, but unless you are a trained roofing professional, there is bound to be aspects of your roof that will “go over your head” so to speak. Schedule an annual inspection from a licensed roofing professional. They can spot weak spots in your roof and work to prevent costly damage and replacement. Inspectors will be able to spot leaks and sagging in your roof and come up with a plan for restoration. 

At Matrix Roofing Systems, we have been a resource for commercial facilities for years. Our team of professionals knows what it takes to keep a roof maintained and safe for the long haul. Whether you think your facility needs repair or you want to start scheduling annual inspections, give us a call to learn how we can help you!

What is the Typical Life Expectancy for Commercial Roofing?

The lifespan of a commercial roof can differ based on different styles and materials, so knowing the life expectancy of the different commercial roofing materials can help you make the right financial decision when replacing your roof.  As a business owner, you want to know what kind of roofing materials are going to be the most energy efficient, cost efficient and durable.

In today’s market, commercial roofs can last anywhere from 10 to 30 years – or even more! Below is a breakdown of the life expectancy for some of the most common types of commercial roofs:

• EPDM rubber roof life expectancy: EDPM rubber is one of the most common commercial roofing materials and is put together using rolls of a highly durable rubber. This type of rubber gives your roof a life expectancy of anywhere from 20 to 30 years. An EPDM roof is usually installed on a large building with a flat roof.
• TPO single ply roof life expectancy: These types of roofs tend to last at least 10 to 20 years, although they can sustain themselves anywhere between 20 and 30 years.  TPO is similar to EPDM in that it is usually installed on a building with a flat roof.
• Metal roof system life expectancy: Metal roofs are one of the most long lasting roofs you can install, and will last anywhere from 30 to 45 years. They are very adaptable to roofs with steep-slopes.
• Asphalt roof system life expectancy: These types of roofs can last up to 30 years depending on the slope of the roof and whether or not there is a consistent maintenance schedule. 

By scheduling regular maintenance, you can maximize the lifespan of your roofing system, as well as reduce overall costs! Give us a call today to schedule a maintenance check or click here to visit our Website.

Don't Forget about your Commercial Roof's Gutters!

Maintaining your commercial roof and gutter systems is important for guaranteeing their longevity and avoiding accidents. Areas of your building with immediate needs tend to break down or stop working, which will become noticeable very quickly. However, necessary roof repair often sneaks by unnoticed, because the roof of your building is difficult to spot—making it easy to overlook. Unfortunately, ignoring your roof can have a devastating effect on your building and your business. While proper maintenance can be easy, emergency roof repair can get expensive and time-consuming quite fast. With that being said, don’t forget about your roofs gutters!

Gutters clog when loose debris build up and get intertwined to the gutter’s interior. If the debris becomes compact enough, it can prevent water from flowing toward the downspout, and then even your downspout can clog. Gutter cleaning should be a very routine service and is an essential part of your buildings maintenance. Gutter cleaning can prevent multiple issues such as roof hazards, exterior home damage, as well as basement and foundation issues. Proper maintenance will also save you money in the long run!

Here are some tips to ensure that your gutter is properly maintained:

• Check to make sure that your gutter system is cleaned out, as clear gutters will tell you that they are draining correctly and aren’t holding debris. To ensure your gutters stay clean all year-round, you should clean them at least twice a year in the fall and spring, or more if needed.
• Check for pooling water or improper drainage.
• Check for gutters or downspouts that are sagging or pulling away from your building.
• Check for holes and cracks in your gutters or downspouts — this can lead to water damage on your commercial building and property.

Our roofing specialists at Matrix Roofing Systems proudly offer a hassle free maintenance service for all of your roofing inspection needs – contact us today!

How Do I Know if My Roof Needs to be Replaced?

It can be hard to determine exactly when you need a roof replacement because honestly, how often do you look at your roof? The answer is probably not often. However, inspecting your roof regularly and making little fixes when they’re needed can prevent some costly repairs down the road. Also, keeping your roof in good condition will be a huge plus if you decide to sell your building in the future. Here are some signs that your roof may need to be replaced:

•  If you notice loose panels. Loose roof panels can lead to leaking and expensive damage to your commercial building. Loose panels from storms, winds, and warping can also compromise the safety of your facility. While thieves generally try to force their way in through doors and windows, loose metal roof panels can also provide an easy way into your building. Small rodents and other animals can identify loose roof panels and make their way inside, as they love building nests in temperature controlled environments.
• The age of your roof is above 20 years. Most professionals say that a roof will generally last 20 to 25 years. This depends on various factors though. If the roof was installed over another layer or several layers and it is older than 20 years, chances are you need a new roof.
• If you see moisture or mold. Be sure to check for signs of moisture, rot, or mold. Mold and fungi can grow quickly, so make note of the wet spots on or underneath your roof. This is best done by a professional and can be addressed accordingly. If lots of problematic moldy areas are found, a roof replacement may be required.
• If you notice rising energy bills. A good roof should act as an insulating material to prevent your building from losing its heat during the winter season, and prevent an increasing amount of heat in during the summer season. If you notice that your energy bills continue to rise, don’t assume that it’s the other parts of your building that are causing the change. Be sure to have your roof assessed at least once a year to ensure it’s functioning the way it should.

Your roof is one of the most important parts of your building, so contact Matrix Roofing Systems, Inc. for all of your roofing needs!

Importance of Roofing Insulation

Commercial roofing insulation acts as a protective blanket that’s wedged in between your roof’s surface and the roof deck. It’s used to reduce the transfer of heat.  Proper roofing insulation can protect your roof from mold, mildew, and high energy costs. A poorly insulated roof causes higher energy bills because your HVAC system needs to be constantly running to maintain your indoor comfort.

Air naturally travels from warm areas towards cooler areas, and insulation restricts this natural movement. Therefore, during the winter, insulation will prevent the cold air from coming into your facility through the ceilings. It works the same way during the summer – keeping the cool air inside and preventing it from moving towards warmer areas.

Here are some additional benefits of roof insulation:

• Reduce your carbon footprint: Insulation is an essential factor in minimizing your property’s carbon footprint because it saves energy. By insulating your roof, your building is naturally regulating its temperature, rather than having to resort to unnecessary artificial heating and cooling.
• Reduce Noise: Insulation can provide an extra physical barrier against irritating external sounds that may be bothering you. Roof insulation can significantly reduce the amount of noise pollution in your building, making everyone’s day more enjoyable.
• Avoid dampness and mold: Modern insulation can reduce the amount of condensation that forms in your roof by regulating the temperature internally. This reduces the opportunity for mold to form.

Insulating your roof can help create a comfortable environment for all people who spend their days inside your building.  If you need help deciding on the right insulation for your roof, consult with Matrix Roofing Systems, Inc. because expertise matters when it comes to insulating commercial roofing, as does experience.

Matrix Roofing is Moving!

We’re very excited to announce that our office is relocating to Chalfont, PA – just a few miles down the road! As of today, our new address is 200 Highpoint Drive, Suite 201 Chalfont, PA 18914.

Other than the move, you can rest assured that nothing else is changing. You can still reach us at (267) 327-4680; and most importantly our dedication to our clients and our mission will always remain the same.

“Our mission is to provide our clients with reliable information, superior service and quality workmanship at a reasonable and economical cost.”

Need a professional to assess your commercial roof in Pennsylvania? Call Matrix Roofing Systems today at (267) 327-4680. We’d be happy to answer any questions you might have and schedule an appointment to inspect your roof.