PRO COMMERCIAL ROOF REPAIRS
Common Commercial Roofing Issues
Commercial roofs are exposed to constant weather, temperature changes, foot traffic, and rooftop equipment stress, which makes periodic repairs inevitable. The most common commercial roof repair issues typically involve water intrusion, membrane damage, and drainage problems. Check the box below for our comprehensive list of common commercial roofing issues.
Ponding Water
One of the leading causes of commercial roof damage is standing water that remains on the roof for more than 48 hours after rainfall.
Common causes:
- Poor drainage design
- Clogged drains or scuppers
- Roof settling
- Compressed insulation
Membrane Punctures & Tears
Commercial roofing membranes can become punctured from:
- Foot traffic
- Dropped tools
- Wind-blown debris
- HVAC service activity
Flashing Failures
Flashing protects roof edges, penetrations, seams, and transitions.
Common flashing issues include:
- Cracking
- Separation
- Improper installation
- Loose edge metal
- Failed sealants
Roof Leaks & Water Intrusion
Leaks can result from many underlying problems.
Interior warning signs often include:
- Ceiling stains
- Mold growth
- Wet insulation
- Dripping water
- Increased humidity
Open or Failed Seams
On membrane roofing systems, seams may separate over time because of:
- Age
- Thermal expansion and contraction
- Improper installation
- Adhesive failure
Open seams allow moisture beneath the roofing system and can lead to widespread insulation saturation.
Wind & Hail Damage
High winds can loosen or detach roofing materials, particularly around:
- Roof edges
- Corners
- Parapet walls
- Flashings
Hail can damage commercial roofs by:
- Cracking membranes
- Bruising insulation
- Denting metal panels
- Weakening seams and coatings
UV & Weather Aging
Constant exposure to sunlight, temperature swings, snow, and rain gradually breaks down roofing materials.
Over time, this may cause:
- Cracking
- Brittleness
- Shrinkage
- Coating deterioration
- Surface erosion
Clogged Drains & Drainage Issues
Blocked drains, gutters, and scuppers prevent proper water flow.
This can lead to:
- Ponding water
- Overflow leaks
- Ice buildup
- Accelerated membrane wear
Routine maintenance helps prevent many drainage-related repair issues.
Damaged Rooftop Penetrations
Areas surrounding rooftop equipment are common failure points.
Problem areas include:
- HVAC curbs
- Vents
- Skylights
- Pipes
- Satellite mounts
Movement and vibration from mechanical equipment can weaken seals and flashing over time.
Shrinkage of Roofing Materials
Some roofing systems, particularly older EPDM roofs, may shrink with age.
Shrinkage can create:
- Membrane pulling
- Flashing separation
- Edge stress
- Seam failure
If severe enough, shrinkage may require partial or full roof replacement.
Poor Installation Workmanship
Improper installation is a major contributor to premature roof repairs.
Examples include:
- Incorrect seam welding
- Inadequate fastening
- Poor flashing details
- Improper slope creation
- Incomplete sealing
Many recurring repair problems trace back to original installation deficiencies.
Structural Movement
Commercial buildings naturally expand and contract over time.
This movement can stress:
- Seams
- Flashings
- Expansion joints
- Roof penetrations
Without proper detailing, structural movement can lead to chronic leak issues.
Structural Movement
Commercial buildings naturally expand and contract over time.
This movement can stress:
- Seams
- Flashings
- Expansion joints
- Roof penetrations
Without proper detailing, structural movement can lead to chronic leak issues.
Lack of Preventative Maintenance
Minor roofing issues often become major repairs when routine maintenance is neglected.
Preventive maintenance helps identify:
- Small punctures
- Early seam separation
- Drain obstructions
- Loose flashing
- Moisture intrusion
Regular inspections significantly reduce long-term repair costs and extend roof lifespan.
COMMERCIAL SYSTEMS
Roof Systems for Commercial Buildings
Check out our commercial roofing systems chart and guide tabs for a concise, practical guide to the most common commercial roofing systems. You can view what they are, how long they shine, key advantages, and what to watch out for.
| System | Lifespan | Cost | Key Advantage |
| EPDM | 20-30 Years | $ | Low cost, easy repair |
| TPO | 15-25 Years | $$ | Energy Efficiency |
| PVC | 20-30 Years | $$$ | Chemical Resistance |
| METAL | 40-70 Years | $$$$ | Longevity |
EPDM
TPO
PVC
METAL
EPDM (rUBBER)
What it is: Single-ply synthetic rubber membrane (usually black).
Pros:
Cost-effective
Excellent weather resistance
Easy repairs
Cons:
Black surface absorbs heat (higher cooling costs)
Seams rely on adhesives/tapes
Best for: Budget-conscious projects and large flat roofs.
TPO (Thermoplastic Polyolefin)
What it is: White, reflective single-ply membrane with heat-welded seams.
Pros:
Energy efficient (reflects UV)
Strong seams (heat-welded)
Resistant to mold/dirt build up
Cons:
Quality varies by manufacturer (Asscher sources the best quality TPO)
Can age faster in extreme conditions
Best for: Energy-efficient buildings in warmer climates.
PVC (Polyvinyl Chloride)
What it is: Durable single-ply membrane similar to TPO but more chemical-resistant.
Pros:
Highly resistant to chemicals, grease, and fire
Strong, long-lasting seams
Reflective and energy-efficient
Cons:
More expensive than TPO/EPDM
Can become brittle over time
Best for: Restaurants, factories, or buildings with chemical exposure.
METAL
What it is: Panels made of steel, aluminum, or other metals (often standing seam).
Pros:
Extremely long lifespan (40–70 years)
Durable against weather and fire
Low maintenance
Cons:
Higher upfront cost
Noise (rain/hail) if not insulated
Best for: Sloped commercial roofs or long-term investments.
COMMERCIAL ROOFING ACROSS INDUSTRIES
Industries We Serve
Asscher Roofing provides tailored commercial roofing solutions for a wide range of industries, each with unique needs, timelines, and budgets.
Restaurants
→ Fast, efficient service with minimal disruption
→ Flexible scheduling around peak hours
Small Businesses
→ Cost-effective roofing options
→ Reliable protection to support daily operations
Factories & Industrial Facilities
→ Durable systems built for demanding environments
→ Focus on safety, performance, and longevity
Apartment Buildings & Multi-Family Properties
→ Scalable solutions for large properties
→ Long-term protection for owners and tenants
Recreation Spaces (gyms, sports facilities, entertainment venues)
→ Roofing systems designed for high-traffic use
→ Built to handle diverse conditions and activity levels
No matter your industry, Asscher Roofing delivers dependable service, clear communication, and roofing solutions built to last.
Partnerships
We are a standalone business that is built within a family of companies that provide exceptional service.
Companies choose Asscher Roofing because we deliver dependable, specialized commercial roofing solutions that reduce risk, control costs, and protect the integrity of the business.
FAQs
How much are commercial inspections?
Commercial inspections start at $250.
How do I know which commercial roofing system is right for my building?
The best system depends on your building’s structure, budget, and long-term goals. Flat roofs often benefit from TPO, PVC, or EPDM, while sloped structures may be better suited for metal roofing. A professional inspection helps determine the ideal solution based on durability, energy efficiency, and cost.
How long does a commercial roof installation take?
Most commercial roofing projects take anywhere from a few days to a couple of weeks, depending on the size of the building, weather conditions, and the type of roofing system being installed. Larger or more complex projects may take longer.
Will my business operations be disrupted during installation?
In most cases, roofing work can be scheduled and managed to minimize disruption. Professional crews plan around your hours of operation, maintain safe work zones, and communicate clearly to keep your business running smoothly.
Ready To Get Started?
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