A leaking roof is every commercial building owner or property manager’s worst nightmare. Even small leaks can lead to major problems, compromising the safety of your building, decreasing property value, and even causing structural damage over time. But you might be surprised to learn just how frequently roof leaks occur in commercial buildings.
According to Buildings.com, water intrusion is the number one cause of building damage, and Facility Executive reports that over 40% of commercial buildings will experience a leak each year.
The good news is, they don’t have to be a major headache if you have a solid plan in place to deal with them. At Maxwell Roofing, we’ve repaired thousands of roof leaks for commercial properties across Nashville and Northern Alabama—and we’ve seen just about everything. That’s why we created this guide: to give you a practical, straightforward approach to roof leak detection, response, and prevention.
Common Causes of Commercial Roof Leaks
Roof leaks don’t always start with a dramatic storm or major event. Many develop slowly over time due to wear, tear, and overlooked damage. Here are some of the most common causes of commercial roof leaks:
- Punctures, tears, or cuts in roofing membranes
- Failed seals around rooftop penetrations in low-slope roofs
- Deteriorated flashing around rooftop equipment, skylights, drains, and walls
- Poor drainage or blocked drains that lead to standing water
- Cracks or gaps in metal components or corners.
- Age-related deterioration of roofing materials
- Damage from rooftop HVAC units or foot traffic
- Leaks not related to the roof, like damaged siding or plumbing issues near the roofline
Want a deeper dive? Check out our blog on the most common causes of commercial roof leaks.
Signs Your Commercial Roof Has a Leak
While some roof leaks are obvious (like a steady drip or water pouring in during a storm), most are much more subtle. That’s why property managers need to remain alert and keep an eye out for the red flags of roof repair.
Here are a few red flags to watch for:
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- Stained ceiling tiles or interior walls
- Water pooling on the floor or near walls
- Dripping water during or after a rainstorm
- Exterior wall stains or bubbling paint
Catching these signs early can save you from expensive repairs or even a full roof replacement.
Need help identifying whether or not you have a roofing issue? Here are six warning signs your commercial roof might need attention.
What to Do When You Spot a Leak
If you think your building has a leak, time is of the essence. Here’s what to do right away:
- Close off the affected area. Prevent slip hazards and damage to equipment or furnishings.
- Clean up any visible water. Use towels, wet vacs, or dryers to remove moisture.
- Contact your building’s insurance provider. File a report if necessary.
- Call a trusted roofing contractor—ideally one that offers 24/7 service—to diagnose and repair the leak.
Not sure who to call? Here’s how to choose the right roofing company for your repair.
How Maxwell Roofing Detects and Repairs Leaks
At Maxwell Roofing, we approach every leak with a clear process:
1. Detailed Roof Inspection & Targeted Search
We start with an interior inspection to locate the source and extent of the leak. From there, we examine the roof in the affected area. Sometimes the source is obvious, but water can travel along slopes and structures, so we always take the time to investigate the full roof system and materials.
2. Determine the Best Repair Strategy
Once we identify the source of a leak, we take time to walk through repair options with our clients. Our team focuses on making fast, accurate fixes while ensuring the solution is right for the specific roof system. Whether that means sealing small punctures, replacing damaged components, or resealing flashing, we handle each repair with care and precision—no shortcuts, just solutions that last.
3. Prevent Future Issues
Once the repair is complete, we often apply a protective sealant to the surrounding area and recommend a preventative maintenance plan to keep the problem from coming back.
What makes our approach unique? It’s really about how we treat our customers. Learn more about Maxwell’s commitment to customers.
How to Prevent Future Roofing Leaks
Preventing leaks isn’t just about damage control—it’s about protecting your investment and avoiding emergency costs.
1. Schedule Regular Inspections
We recommend conducting a detailed roof inspection at least twice a year, ideally during the spring and/or fall. Seasonal shifts can stress your roof, especially in areas like Middle Tennessee or Northern Alabama, where the weather can change fast.
2. Address Minor Leaks Early
It’s easy to ignore a leak that only shows up “every now and then.” But even occasional leaks can saturate your roof system and lead to major damage over time. Once moisture gets in, the only fix may be cutting out and replacing the affected materials. Don’t wait—act quickly.
3. Invest in Preventative Maintenance
Routine maintenance helps identify and fix small problems, like clogged drains or aging materials, before they lead to serious leaks. Maxwell offers customized maintenance plans for every building type and budget.
Want to take it a step further? Check out these five tips for commercial roof leak prevention.
Can I Fix a Leak Myself?
We get this question a lot, and understand the impulse to grab some caulk and give it a go. While that might help in an emergency, DIY fixes are only temporary. Most caulks degrade quickly when exposed to the elements, especially on flat commercial roofs.
Also, be careful: attempting your own repair can void your manufacturer’s warranty. To ensure a long-lasting, warrantable fix, it’s always best to call a trained commercial roofing professional.
Ready for Peace of Mind?
Roof leaks are never fun, but they don’t have to be a nightmare. With the right knowledge and a proactive plan, you can protect your building, your people, and your budget.
If you’re in the Middle Tennessee or Northern Alabama area, Maxwell Roofing is here to help. We offer 24/7 emergency repairs and tailored roof maintenance plans built to fit your property’s needs.
Contact Maxwell Roofing today to schedule an inspection or get started on your leak prevention plan.