What Roof Discoloration Really Means

A dirty, discolored roof can be far more than a mere eyesore. Although accumulations of dust and debris will certainly detract from the curbside appeal of your commercial building, they can also indicate serious underlying issues. Thus, before you hire a pressure washing company to clear discoloration up with "soft wash" treatments, it's important to know exactly what you're dealing with. It may be that hiring roofers to perform a thorough roof inspection instead is the best course of action.

Rusty Roof Components

Dusty, red-brown stains on your roof are a likely indication that metal components are becoming corroded. Roofs that are largely metal may need to be treated by professional roof painters. In this case, several coats of quality paint will likely limit further corrosion. Conversely, if evidence of rusting is only visible around various metal components such as at metal flashing, antenna mounts, or HVAC equipment, consider having these treated with oxalic acid or vinegar. This will mitigate the problem and keep future rusting to a minimum. Whenever rust exists at the rooftop, be sure to have professionals roofers verify that corrosion-related damages to metal components have not diminished the roof's overall integrity.

Fading & Aging

Commercial roofing tends to discolor just as the end of their lifespans are reached. Commonly referred to as bleed-through, this discoloration is the result of constant and long-term exposure to the natural elements. Harsh winds, excessive temperatures, prolonged exposure to the sun's UV rays, and constant changes in humidity invariably lead to deterioration. If your roof hasn't been replaced in quite some time, you may want to call roofers for an inspection as soon as any noticeable color streaks appear.

Algae Infestations At The Rooftop

A fast-developing coating of algae can leave your rooftop dirtied with dark black and green streaks.  Algae is a fairly common issue for roofs in humid areas given that these organisms feed on the limestone-based fillers that surround shingles. In this case, having the roof treated with a "soft-wash" that includes an appropriate algae-fighting solution should be enough to clear the discoloration up. Letting algae infestations fester and spread, however, can result in the fusion of algae with fungi. This leads to lichen, which is ultimately far more difficult to get rid of.

Addressing roof discoloration at its source is essential. Certain problems cannot be simply hosed off. With bleed-through and extensive corrosion, repairs, replacements, or special maintenance tasks may be in order. If you have concerns about the changing colors of your roof, give Matrix Roofing Systems a call. We are the Mid-Atlantic region’s top source of roofing help!

How the Winter Can Lead to Roofing Issues in the Spring

Anyone in the Mid-Atlantic region can tell you how punishing the winters can be. Property managers are especially aware of this when it comes to the buildings they manage. The cold season throws several challenges to commercial roofing, which can be exasperated by the incoming warmer months. Pre-spring is a great time to handle roof maintenance, as it can catch the following issues that are caused by winter weather:

Leaky Roofs

Commercial roofing tends to collect ice and snow over the winter months. With rising temperatures and more intense sunlight, all of the ice will be melting into water. Depending on the amount of ice that's melting, all of the moisture can find its way through various cracks or openings and cause leaks in your roof. Look around your facility’s walls and ceilings; if you notice stains, it's likely that your roof is leaking and in need or repair. 

Wildlife Infestation

During the cold weather, animals like squirrels, raccoons, and birds are extra determined to find warm spaces to take shelter. Areas like chimneys, loose siding, and broken shingles are common places for animals to live in. Keep an eye out for the presence of pests or take note of strange noises coming from the walls or ceilings. You'll risk electrical damage and more if you allow wildlife to remain unchecked.

Clogged Gutters/Drainage Systems

If you haven't had your drainage system checked in the past year, there’s a big chance that it needs a cleaning. Fallen leaves and other debris can clog your gutters and downspouts, which can advance to greater problems like roof and siding damage. Don't skip out on your gutters on your spring cleaning to-do list, or you may need to take on a lengthy roof repair project. 

Roof Sagging

If you live in an area that got a lot of snowfall this year, you may want to check in on your roof's structural integrity. When snow and ice accumulate, the weight of the frozen material can damage your commercial roof, leading to sagging, cracks, and pooling water. A professional roof inspector can spot these areas before they graduate to bigger issues. Smaller roof repair projects can prevent expensive roof replacements!

To get the most out of your commercial roofing, it's key to check in on it after the winter months. Kick off your spring with a clean slate by booking a roof inspection. This will especially be helpful before the summer heat and storms pose threats of their own in a few months. To learn more, contact the experts at Matrix Roofing Systems, Inc.!

What You Risk When Putting Off Commercial Roof Repair

When it comes to commercial roof repair, it’s pretty understandable to most that it’s necessary. No one wants to work underneath a damaged roof, after all. Property managers can sometimes be guilty of putting off important roof repairs, however. Doing this can spell disaster in the long run. 

In this blog, we’ll be explaining the types of pitfalls that come along with failing to complete commercial roof repairs. 

The Damage Gets Worse

As you can imagine, not addressing your roof’s damage right away can result in further damage. Take a leak, for example. If you allow moisture to permeate your roof, the problem will only grow until you fix it. Some roofs have multiple layers with a lot of space for leaks to hide. Once the water starts coming in, it won’t stop until a professional handles the repair job. 

Wildlife Can Enter

In addition to allowing water to enter your facility, holes in your roof can also provide a convenient entrance for rodents, birds, and insects. Once these animals find their way in, they tend to set up their new home quickly. Wildlife in a commercial facility can put you and others at great risk. From the physical threats of raccoons & possums to the sanitary dangers of mice, holes in your roofing need to be dealt with immediately. Every moment you allow for damage to go unfixed is another opportunity for new wildlife to settle in. 

Electrical Danger

Water damage to a roof poses great risk to your electrical system. Lots of wires and cables are present in your facility’s walls and ceilings. Water will cause mildew and corrosion to your roof, leading to tripped breakers and power outages. The worst case scenarios can include fire hazards and even electrical shocks. Rather than putting up with these risks, make commercial roof repair a priority. 

Your commercial roof requires care and maintenance in order to serve its function and keep your building safe. If you allow small problems to remain, they will continue to fester until they turn into big, expensive problems. Matrix Roofing is the Mid-Atlantic area’s top source of commercial roofing repair. Give us a call today to secure your investment and get your roof back to working order!

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!

How Clogged Gutters Can Spell Disaster For Your Commercial Roof

Make no mistake about it: your commercial building’s gutters are not some feature that you can leave behind to fend for itself. Gutters play a significant role in your facility’s structural integrity and safety. Fail to stay on top of your building’s gutter maintenance, and you may find yourself writing a big check for repairs and/or installation.

Gutters, when maintained, are an efficient and quick way to properly manage rainfall. When it comes to commercial buildings, these gutters are tasked with directing a large amount of water through the downspout. Allowing them to get clogged can open up a Pandora’s Box of inconveniences for your facility:

• Clogged gutters can contribute to the erosion of the exterior appearance of the building. From washing away paint and creating visible stains, clear gutters keep a façade looking its best.
• Clogged gutters aren’t able to direct rain away from your building; instead, it will leak into the foundation and your building’s sidewalks. Water should not leak to these areas, or your risk thousands in repair costs. Even worse, if you allow water to wreak havoc for extended periods of time, you’re looking at structural damage that will be no easy fix.
• Clogged gutters may push water to your roof and the walls, causing them to become damp. Damp areas on a building soon become moldy areas. Moldy areas are hazardous and unsafe for working environments.
• Clogged gutters will start to overflow, which can end up destroying your whole gutter system. Commercial buildings take up a lot of space and catch a lot of water. If you allow water to gather, the gutters may end up giving out and falling right off your building.

By hiring a roofing professional to inspect your commercial roof and gutters, you can save yourself all the worry and expenses that come with clogged gutter-related mishap. Roofing experts can inspect your entire roof in addition to your gutters. They’ll be able to spot any leaks or future leaks, as well as highlight any potential hazards before they graduate to expensive repairs.

If you want to put your gutter worries to rest, give our team a call today! We’re proud to offer premium roofing service to the entire Mid-Atlantic region.

Winter Is Coming: Protect Your Flat Roof with These Simple Steps

Flat roofs are often considered the standard for commercial facilities. They make any business look sleek and modern instantly. But they do present a few unique challenges for property managers looking to keep their facility safe from heavy snowfall. Luckily, it's easier than you might think. Here are a few simple ways to protect your flat roof this winter. 

Get Your Roof Inspected

A damaged roof is a leaky roof and when the snow has a chance to sit and melt on that damaged roof, you'll have major problems. The best thing you can do is schedule an annual roofing inspection and let your commercial roofer check for damage. If they see anything out of place, they'll be able to make the repairs quickly. 

Clean Your Drains

Flat roofs are equipped with drainage outlets that help funnel snowmelt and rainfall away from your roof and towards a designated drainage area. When they're clogged, that runoff won't have anywhere to go. Over the course of the winter, that moisture can soak through the roofing materials and into your ceiling, putting you at risk for mold and mildew growth indoors. Take the time to clean those drains and downspouts thoroughly. 

Get Your Trees Trimmed

Low-hanging branches become a major safety hazard after a major snowstorm. The weight of the snow causes the limbs to hang lower and, in some cases, breaks them. If they scrape against or land on your roof, they can do serious damage to your facility. Take preventative measures and get any neighboring trees trimmed before winter is in full swing. 

Look for Puddles

Flat roofs aren't completely flat. This allows water to run off the roof rather than collecting in puddles. If you notice puddles on your roof after a snowstorm or winter rainstorm, contact your roofer immediately. Puddles mean your roof is warped and may have water damage that could spread if left unrepaired. 

Get Your Roof Ready for Winter

Preventative maintenance is the best way to protect your flat roof from water damage during the winter months. Don't wait. Contact Matrix Roofing today to schedule a free estimate and let our team help you get your commercial roof ready for the elements.

Should I Repair or Replace My Commercial Roofing?

The average commercial roof can last anywhere from 10 to 40 years. During that time, it requires occasional repairs and consistent maintenance to keep it in great condition. The well-being of your commercial roof says a lot about the safety and value of your facility. So, how do you know if you should repair your roofing or consider a replacement? The following information will help you decide.

Cracks and Imperfections

Over time, you may notice cracks, splits, or other imperfections in your roofing. This can be due to rain, erratic temperatures, and sun exposure. So long as only a few areas are affected, a professional can normally repair this damage rather easily. On the other hand, when a large portion of the roofing has become damaged, you may be better off going with a replacement. 

Ponding

Many flat commercial roofs can suffer from ponding, which is when water isn’t properly draining from the roof and pools. Ponding water can cause big issues for your roofing, like leaking, plant/algae growth, mosquitos, and other signs of overall roof deterioration. When it comes to this phenomenon, you will definitely need to seek the help of a professional for the next steps. Simple roof maintenance can help drain the ponds and restore your roofing to good health. In some cases, however, a new roof may be the suitable option.

Old or Outdated

Roofing technologies are always changing significantly over the years. Accordingly, you may also wish to replace yours if it appears old or outdated. It’s important to work with a trusted roofing expert that can walk you through their different solutions and come up with the best option for you. Some roofing options may be unnecessary for your needs, so be sure that the expert comes up with ideas that make sense for your operation. 

At Matrix Roofing, we aim to be your trusted source of commercial roofing expertise in the Mid-Atlantic region. We know how much an investment your roofing is, which is why we’ll only suggest a plan that works for your bottom line. Give us a call today to discuss your commercial roof repair & replacement needs.

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!