1. Leaks or Water Stains Inside the Building
If you see brown stains on the walls or tiles or water dripping from the ceiling, the problem is probably with your roof. Even small leaks can quickly spread through framing and insulation, leading to deterioration, possibly mold growth, ceiling collapse, or electrical problems. (Mold inspections need to be requested separately.)
Don't ignore even a small leak.
Call for a commercial roof inspection right away to find the source and stop damage from happening inside.
2. Pooling or Standing Water on a Flat Roof
A lot of commercial buildings in Arizona have flat or low-slope roofs. When it rains, water collects there, which is dangerous for people who live there. More than 48 hours after a storm, standing water can make roof membranes weaker, cause leaks, and add weight to the building that isn't needed.
Before and during the rainy season, it's very important to check your gutters, scuppers, and drainage systems to make sure they are all working properly.
3. Cracked, Blistered, or Bubbling Roofing Material
The UV rays and heat in Arizona are very strong, and over time they can make roofing materials crack, bubble, or boil, causing major deterioration. These surface flaws may not seem like a big deal, but they usually mean that moisture is getting stuck or that there is a problem with the bonding below the membrane. This is a warning sign that needs to be inspected immediately .
A professional commercial inspection will tell you how bad the damage is and suggest repairs that need to be made before the leaks spread to other parts of the house.
4. Sagging Roof Sections or Soft Spots
If your roof has spots that are uneven, drooping, or squishy, it could mean that water is pooling or the subflooring is rotting. This warning sign is one of the most dangerous because it could hurt the building's structure and be a safety concern for your inspector.
A certified building inspector can tell you when to contact a licensed roofer.
5. Clogged Drains or Debris Buildup
During monsoon season, debris often gets stuck in drains and scuppers on commercial roofs. Not only does clogged drainage cause water to pool, but it can also create pressure points on the roof that weaken the walls.
A professional should check and maintain your drainage systems on a regular basis to keep them clear and make your roof last longer.
6. Rising Utility Bills
A hidden roof leak can make your HVAC and insulation work less efficiently. Your roof could be letting cooler air out, which would make your HVAC system work harder and cause your energy bills to go up all of a sudden.
An inspection can find thermal flaws, damaged insulation, and water leaks that make the building more costly in the end.
7. Mold, Mildew, or Musty Odors
If your store, office, or factory smells musty, you need to act fast. When water penetrates the layers of a roof, mold can grow. Mold can spread quickly and has the potential to make people sick.
Commercial Mold Inspectors can look for intrusion and figure out where the problem is coming from. Most of the time, it's a roof membrane or flashing that isn't working right, or leaking pipes. (Mold inspections are a separate cost and not included in roof inspections, as it is not always necessary and lab costs can be in excess.)