Common Issues with Industrial Roofs You Should Be Aware Of

Kathleen Maxwell

industrial warehouse roof

Even the most durable industrial roof will experience maintenance and repair issues over the course of its life. These roofs are exposed every day to the weather outside and to the daily grind of industrial work inside, and it’s important to give your roof the special care it needs to function properly. Here we will lay out some of the most common issues with industrial roofs that occur, along with some simple suggestions for how to deal with them.

1. Problems with Roof Penetrations

Skylights, vents, and other roof features require penetrations through the roof membrane and decking. Penetrations, particularly skylights, are prone to cracks and leaks. The more penetrations a roof has, the more opportunities there are for a roof to spring a leak.

2. Thermal Movement

Over time, all roofs expand and contract as the temperature shifts. This is known as thermal movement, where the roof expands during hot weather events and then quickly contracts when it’s cold. Roofers should account for thermal movement during construction, using well-placed supports to prevent the roof from shifting or exposing delicate parts of the roof system. Roofers should look out for signs of thermal movement during their regular maintenance routines.

3. Weather Issues

Bad weather is beyond the control of a facility manager, but that doesn’t mean that you can’t prepare for it. Extreme temperatures, heavy rain, snow, ice, or high wind can all cause serious damage to a roof. Regular maintenance and a quick response to emergency repairs can help prevent the most extensive weather damage.

4. Equipment Damage

Many industrial buildings house equipment like HVACs on their roof surface. If this equipment malfunctions, it can easily cause damage to the roof. If equipment is not properly secured to a roof, it can lift during heavy winds. HVACs, in particular, can cause water infiltration if they malfunction. To prevent equipment damage, it’s important to have an HVAC contractor regularly examine the equipment. A roofer should then inspect the surrounding roof to make sure there hasn’t been any damage.

5. Human Error

Industrial roofs often get a lot of foot traffic. Technicians and other workers may often need to climb on a roof to service equipment or perform some other type of task. Having more people on a roof can introduce many problems. Make sure that roofs are properly reinforced in areas where people will be walking, and always have a roofer inspect high-traffic areas for accidental damage.

We Can Help You Protect Your Industrial Roof

If you’re ready to learn more about how you can protect your industrial roof, contact Maxwell Roofing & Sheet Metal, Inc. today! Our team is experienced and ready to help.

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