A foul, musty smell is one of the first signs that there may be a leak in your commercial property. Mold requires three things to thrive – the right temperature, a food source, and moisture.
Dark spots on the walls of your building are another common sign of a roof leak. These spots are usually caused by saturating insulation. Higher energy bills are also a result of roof leaks, since your building is not retaining its heat or cooling as well as it should.
1. Water Damage
Water damage can cause severe structural problems for commercial properties, resulting in costly repairs. This is why it’s important to pay attention to any signs of water damage and act quickly to minimize the impact. read more.
If you notice a puddle or water stains on your ceiling or walls, this is a sure sign that there’s a roof leak. Be sure to take steps to minimize interior damage and move any equipment, supplies, or furniture away from the area. You should also use a bucket or other receptacle to catch the dripping water until you can get it repaired by a commercial property restoration company.
Leaks often appear as light brown stains on ceilings and walls, but they can also show up in the form of damp spots or sagging. If you notice these stains, it’s time to call in a roofing contractor to inspect your commercial roof for leaks and damages. If left unattended, these leaks can saturate the insulation in your attic and cause higher energy bills for your facility.
2. Mold
Most people know that if they see brown water stains on their ceiling, it’s a clear sign there’s a serious issue with the roof. But what many don’t consider is the potential problem of mold if the problem isn’t caught soon enough.
High humidity, poor ventilation, and the presence of existing or past water damage are all conducive to mold growth. In addition to being unattractive, mold can cause respiratory problems for building occupants. Mold spores can be spread by air conditioning and heating systems, and some types of mold secrete mycotoxins which are known to trigger symptoms like asthma and allergies.
Since toxic mold can impact occupant health, savvy owners are likely to include provisions in leases or purchase transactions requiring tenants to hire qualified consultants at their expense to perform periodic assessments for toxic mold and moisture. Proper drainage can also prevent mold from forming by keeping ground sloped away from buildings. This means that gutters and downspouts must be regularly cleaned and repaired to ensure water runoff doesn’t end up inside a structure.
3. Sagging
Commercial roofs are incredibly vulnerable to the elements, especially if they’re not well-maintained. One minor issue can quickly become a major problem, costing tens of thousands of dollars in damage. Sagging can be a serious indicator that your commercial roof needs replacing.
One common cause of sagging is damaged support columns. If a beam is crooked at installation, builders will often use shims to even it out. However, shims can compress over time and need replacement. Replacing a beam requires access to the attic, and is best done through sistering.
Another possible cause of sagging is foundation damage. Severe cracking, buckling, or crumbling in interior walls can indicate structural issues that affect the roof. These issues can also affect door and window frames, making them harder to open or close. Increased energy bills can be a sign of roof leaks as well. This is because water intrusion causes insulation to become saturated, resulting in higher energy costs to heat and cool the building.
4. Clogged Gutters
Gutters play an important role here in Sea Island by redirecting rainwater off of your roof and away from the property. However, over time, the gutters can become clogged with debris like leaves, twigs, pine needles, and shingle granules. When this happens, the water won’t flow properly and will build up on the roof.
In addition, clogged gutters can cause the wood to rot and lead to mold growth. Moreover, they can also erode the soil around your foundation and create cracks or sinking over time.
Finally, clogged gutters can attract insects and rodents that love the damp conditions they provide. Mosquitoes, frogs, snakes, and rats all enjoy breeding in standing water and may make their way into the home or commercial building. This can pose a health hazard and result in serious issues that require expensive repairs. So, if you’re noticing signs of clogged gutters on your property, don’t delay professional service! Contact us today for a free estimate.
