Excessive water, in any roofing situation, is either a sign of poor drainage or damage. If left unaddressed, it can escalate and cost your business both financially and in terms of productivity. This is why it’s so important to understand why water is so threatening to industrial roofs and the solutions you can take to prevent it.

The Risk of Excess Water

Commercial roofs, specifically those that are either overlooked by trees or have a flat roof solution, are the most at risk of water damage. When we invest in any part of our business, we’re looking for that investment to pay off. New roofs come with a substantial price tag and therefore, we expect many years of service. In situations where rainwater is unable to drain effectively, water pools. It puts pressure on the structure of a roof, threatens to break down the used material, and has the potential to wreak havoc on a building’s structure. This is also one of the most common reasons why leaks are found in commercial buildings.

Pooled water is generally the result of either:

  • Poorly maintained drainage.
  • Lack of appropriate drainage.
  • Poorly installed roofing.

Let’s look at these three causes and how they can be avoided in your business.

Poorly Maintained Drainage

A good drainage system is essential for allowing rainwater and debris to move away from the surface of your roof. However, many of us forget to schedule regular maintenance. You’ll want to have your gutters and drainage system cleaned at least annually. During these checks, the professional should perform a visual check to identify any damage and provide advice on how to rectify this.

Built-up leaves, animal debris, and dirt can all contribute to poor water drainage and, in turn, leaks in your commercial roof.

Lack of Appropriate Drainage

Equally, commercial roof water issues can also be the result of a lack of appropriate drainage in the first place. Specifically important if you have a flat roof, there needs to be a system built into the design of your building that effectively shifts this water before it pools. Replacing your drainage may be an investment but the return is significant when you reduce the risk of building collapse or significant damage.

Poorly Installed Roofing

One of the best ways to keep water-related damage at bay is to ensure your roof is installed by a professional and reliable company. Commercial roofs have very exacting demands, especially when dealing with chemicals and harsh fumes. Therefore, you need to work with someone who specialises in industrial roofing, has the right suppliers and years of experience. From here, you’ll be able to work with a roof that has decades of longevity in its design.

Here at Industrial Roofing Services (NE) Ltd, we offer a wide range of roofing solutions alongside minor roof repair services. These include gutters and downspouts cleaning, an inspection of all drainage components, and repair to flashings and metal panels. If you’re concerned about water damage and would like to speak to one of our experts, please get in contact here today.