There is almost nothing worse than the frustration and costly damages that occur when a roof starts leaking in the middle of a rainstorm. Knowing how to fix a leaky roof in the midst of a rainstorm can save you from significant water damage and messy cleanup.

atlantacommercialroofingcontractors.com gathered the following information about steps to stopping a roof leak in the rain.

How Do You Stop a Roof Leak While It’s Raining?

As with any type of commercial or residential roof leak, the following steps will help you get that leak temporarily under control until you can schedule a roofing professional to make permanent repairs.

Locate The Source of The Leak

Sometimes, the source of a leak is evident. However, there are times you’ll have to follow a series of clues to positively identify the problem. Inspect your roof thoroughly to rule out:

• Clogged/Overflowing Gutters and Downspouts
• Clogged Internal Roof Drains
• Missing/Damaged Vent Covers
• Ponding
• HVAC units
• Pest Infestation
• Previous Storm/Structural Damage

Once you’ve identified the leak location, assess any damages it has caused and what material you will need to stop the leak. Tools and material used to stop a roof leak include:

• Light Source (Flashlight)
• Bucket
• Sponge
• Putty Knife
• Tape Measure
• Utility Knife
• Hammer
• Staple Gun
• Plywood
• Shingle or Other Roofing Material
• 6-mil Polyethylene Sheeting
• 4 4-foot segments of 2X4
• Roofing Tar

Clear Out Your Work Area

Give yourself enough physical space to do this job. Once you have determined where the leak is coming from, do the following:

• Remove any soaked insulation
• Use a mop or wet vac to extract as much water as possible
• Place buckets/pails beneath the leak
• Move furniture and appliances out of the way
• Place tarps over any furniture or appliances too large or difficult to move

Note: Avoid placing any weight on ceiling tiles or drywall from inside the attic. Instead, place plywood or boards across the joists and work from that.

Tip: Double-check the origin of your leak. Water will often enter at one point and travel along rafters or the underside of the roofing deck to another.

Stop The Roof Leak

This repair should be made from the rooftop. If you feel it is not safe to be on the roof for any reason, capture as much of the water from the leak as you can and wait for conditions to improve.

Once it’s safe to climb on your roof, secure a ladder at its base and again at the fascia or eaves of the roof. Once your ladder is secure, here’s what to do:

• Put on rubber-soled, well-treaded shoes.
• Take measurements made from inside the attic to determine precisely where the leak is on the roof’s exterior (vertically from the roof’s ridge and horizontally from the gable to the leak).
• Apply roofing tar to the leaking area with a putty knife.
• Build an emergency roof patch by placing a spare shingle or piece of plywood on the roofing tar.
• Add roofing tar over and around the patch to seal it and make it stay in place.

If you cannot find the leak’s location, build an emergency roof covering:

• Use the vertical and horizontal measurements from within the attic to find the leak’s approximate exterior location.
• Unroll enough 6-mil polyethylene (PE) sheeting to reach from the eave to the ridge plus about 4 extra feet and cut the piece with your utility knife.
• Unfold the cut piece of sheeting to reveal an 8-foot-wide strip.
• Roll one end of sheeting around a 2 x 4 and staple it to the board.
• Nail or screw a second 2 x 4 over the first one to secure the plastic between the boards.
• Set the 2 x 4 plastic sandwich along the eave.
• Secure the opposite end of the sheeting to the remaining 2 X 4’s and pull it over the ridge.

Note: These repairs are temporary and should be followed up by a permanent repair by a professional roofer.

Tip: Before climbing on your roof, verify your roofing system warranty, insurance policy, and maintenance agreement.

How To Prevent Roof Leaks

Regardless of the roofing system you have installed, it will likely spring a leak within 5 to 7 years. This occurs because roofing systems are generally composed of various materials, including plastics that can constrict, crack and metal that can rust. You can prolong the life of your roofing system by:

• Maintaining a maintenance program with a reputable roofing company
• Preventing ice dams from damaging your roofing material
• Periodically cleaning out drains, gutters, and downspouts
• Caring for (including pruning) trees surrounding your structure
• Preventing excess or unnecessary foot traffic on your roof
• Keeping objects secure that could come loose and fly during severe weather

Tip: Keep your roof-bound equipment in top operating conditions. Excessive condensation, vibrations, or heat emissions can all damage your roofing system.

Stopping Roof Leaks

In this article, you discovered steps and tips on how to locate and temporarily stop roof leaks when it’s raining or during the rainy season.

Knowing how to take fast and safe action when your roof springs a leak during the rain will help you save your structure from severe and costly damages.

Allowing a roof leak to go unaddressed can lead to severe structural damages, including your roofing system’s failure.

Sources:
extension.umn.edu/protecting-home-rain-and-ice/dealing-and-preventing-ice-dams
kenosha.extension.wisc.edu/files/2010/06/Leaky_roofs.pdf

See How To Stop a Roof Leak in the Rain for the first version of this content.

Don’t let the wrong roofing system or a poorly installed one cripple your business. Knowing what goes into installing or replacing a commercial roof will help you make informed decisions when it is time to act.

atlantacommercialroofingcontractors.com gathered information about commercial roof installation, replacement, and answers some common commercial roofing FAQs.

Commercial Roofing System Installation

Installing a roof on a new commercial building or replacing an old one may seem procedurally simple enough. However, some roofing system installation differences should be addressed.

TPO, PVC, and EPDM Membrane System Installation

Also known as single-ply roofing systems, these systems require fewer steps and are installed with a relatively straightforward process:

1. The roof is cleared of any material that may damage the membrane
2. The membrane is rolled out onto the roof (single-ply roofing material typically comes in rolls)
3. The membrane is then adhered to the roof using tape, glue, or heat (for thermoplastic material)
4. The membrane is also adhered to itself where its edges overlap
5. Protrusions are sealed

The time it takes to install a membrane or single-ply roofing system will also depend on the width of the material. The wider the material is, the fewer seams in the roofing system, which also translates to fewer opportunities for leaks and roof failure.

Elastomeric Coatings and Spray Polyurethane Foam (SPF) System Installation

Both Mesh Reinforced Elastomeric Coatings (MREC) and SPF coatng systems are intended to extend the life (up to 20 years) of an existing roofing system. Their installation includes:

Mesh Reinforced Elastomeric Coatings (MREC) – Composed of acrylic, elastomeric, and polyester reinforcing mats, MREC mats are applied in multiple layers until the desired thickness is reached.

Sprayed Polyurethane Foam (SPF) – SPF coatings may be acrylic, polyurethane, silicone, aggregate, or mineral granules. SPF coatings are sprayed onto a roof and should be applied by skilled workers.

• SPF can be applied directly to the roof deck or existing roofing system
• An SPF membrane is created by spraying a two-part liquid material onto the substrate
• The mixture expands and solidifies creating a waterproof polyurethane foam

Besides the protective nature of SPF coatings, the thickness and slope of the roof can be controlled during application.

BUR/Asphalt System Installation

Built-up roofing systems are among the oldest roofing processes in modern times. BUR systems are durable, they look nice, and are effective at resisting leaks and repelling water. The installation process occurs in four steps:

1. Base sheets are laid down and attached to the roofing deck
2. Felt is glued to the base sheets using adhesive, concrete, asphalt, or tar
3. Gravel or cap sheets are then installed over the felt
4. A final layer of asphalt completes the installation process

A properly installed BUR system creates a virtually impenetrable roof, able to keep severe weather and the elements from getting into the building it protects.

Modified Bitumen System Installation

Modified bitumen is an evolution of asphalt roofing that is a form of membrane flat roofing. The roofing system can sustain substantial foot traffic without wear. The following are the installation processes of torch-down and peel-and-stick modified bitumen roofing systems:

Torch-Down Modified Bitumen

1. The roof is cleared of debris
2. Heavy roofing felt is installed and nailed down
3. Flashing and primer are installed
4. The first sheet is rolled out along the edge of the roof (trimmed and fitted)
5. The sheet is rolled back up
6. A torch is used to slightly melt the bitumen as the sheet is rolled back out
7. Overlapping sheets are applied in the same manner until the roof is covered and sealed

Peel-and-Stick

1. The roof is cleared of debris
2. Heavy roofing felt is installed and nailed down
3. Flashing and primer are installed
4. The first sheet is rolled out along the edge of the roof (trimmed and fitted)
5. The sheet is rolled back up
6. The protective film is removed to expose the adhesive and rolled into place
7. Sheets are overlapped by about six inches until covering the entire roof
8. The system is pressed into place using a weighted roller
9. The roof edges are sealed with roofing cement and rolled again to seal the layers together

Before installing modified bitumen, verify that the existing material on the roof is compatible (previous systems using rubber can be eaten away, causing weaknesses and potential failure of the new modified bitumen system).

Metal Panel Roofing System Installation

One of the most durable roofing options (up to forty years), metal roofing is also one of the more expensive options. The following detail how a metal roofing system is installed:

1. The existing roof may need to be removed (depending on municipal codes and/or roof load capacity)
2. The roof deck is prepared (framework and insulation installation)
3. Flashing and eaves are installed
4. Metal panels are laid out and fastened to the roof (how they are fastened depends on which material the panels are composed of; aluminum, copper, steel, etc.)

Metal roofing can be installed using panels or steel shingles. Steel shingles are installed the same way as slate, clay, or concrete shingles.

New Commercial Building Roofing System Installation

A commercial building’s roof is its primary defense against damaging weather and natural hazards. Architects, builders, and building owners decide early in the designing stages which roofing system will be installed. Some of the factors that lead to a decision are:

• What equipment will be installed on the roof
• What is the needed roof load
• What type and how many protrusions will be needed (vents, exhaust pipes, skylights, drains, etc.)
• How and where will the roof shed water
• What is the expected foot traffic on the roof (walkways and reinforcements may be required)
• What is the anticipated lifespan of the roofing system
• Which commercial roofing system offers the best performance for future building activities (the roof used for an office building may not serve that used for a restaurant)
• Regional weather patterns (wind, rain, snow, hail, ice, and heat)
• Natural disasters (tornadoes, hurricanes, wildfires, earthquakes, etc.)

Many regions across the country experience one sort or another of natural disasters or recurring weather events. In many cases, these regions have developed laws or ordinances that require specific materials to be used when installing a new commercial roofing system.

Read more about what a commercial roof load is at atlantacommercialroofingcontractors.com/what-is-commercial-roof-load-why-you-need-to-know/

Replacing A Commercial Roofing System

For building managers, replacing a commercial roofing system is a rare event to see in one’s career. A well-installed and maintained roofing system can last decades before needing replacement.

When it comes time to replace the roof on your commercial building, the following steps will help you hire the right contractor to install the right roof for your building’s needs.

Bidding Process: Request bids from at least 3 contractors. By doing so, you can compare their prices, suggestions, more importantly, their work history, quality, and online reviews.

Roofing System Selection: The roofing system you select should accommodate the structure and purpose of your commercial building. An honest, professional roofer will help you determine which roofing system will serve your building best and advise you whether or not replacement is necessary.

Selecting a roofing system for your commercial building will require you to determine the best fit for your building, which system fits within your budget, which one offers the best protection and durability, and which maintenance program makes the most sense.

Roofing System Tear Off: If your current roof has reached the end of its life, it must be removed before installing a new one. This process exposes any flaws or defects in the roofing deck, which must be addressed before installing a new roof.

Roofing System Installation: Since every roofing installation is unique, a definitive installation timeline is difficult to project. The following should be taken into consideration when determining how long your installation will take:

• Roof deck repair (if required)
• The type of commercial roofing system
• The size of the roof (the larger the roof, the longer it will take)
• Unexpected weather events

Sometimes, when a permit is required to replace your roof, there may be stipulations that affect how and when the work can be done. To avoid delays, fines, and further punitive measures, permit requirements must be adhered to at all times.

Roofing System Guarantees, Warranties, and Maintenance Programs: Once your roofing system installation is complete, you should receive a:

• Guarantee covering the installation of your roof
• Warranty covering parts and materials
• Maintenance program proposal from your roofer to periodically perform inspections and minor repairs

Read more about what goes into a commercial roofing maintenance program at atlantacommercialroofingcontractors.com/maintenance-programs-services/

Commercial Roofing System FAQs

The following are answers to common FAQs based on general roofing information. Since no two commercial roofing systems are exactly alike, your specific situation may require further investigation for a more accurate response.

Question: How long will a commercial roofing system last?

Answer: A well-installed and maintained commercial roofing system can last from 30 years to the life of the structure it protects. The longevity of a roof depends mostly on the quality of its materials, installation, and maintenance program.

Question: My roof is leaking, what should I do?

Answer: Immediately contact your roofer. Whether you have a maintenance program or not, leaks must be addressed immediately to prevent structural damage to the roofing system and building.

Question: What is the difference between a commercial and residential roof?

Answer: Similar roofing systems can be applied to both commercial and residential structures. However, most commercial roofs will require a higher roof load to support HVAC and other equipment. They may appear very similar but are structurally different.

Read more about why you need to know your commercial roof load at atlantacommercialroofingcontractors.com/what-is-commercial-roof-load-why-you-need-to-know/

Commercial Roofing System Installation Process

In this article, you discovered information about new commercial building roof installation, commercial roofing replacement, and answers to common roofing questions.

By knowing what is involved in the commercial roofing installation or replacement process, you can make informed decisions when it’s time to select a roofing contractor and the best roofing system for your commercial building.

Not knowing what to do when you need a new roof can lead to the wrong roof installed, possible municipal code violations, expensive fines, and continuous roofing maintenance problems.

Sources:
wbdg.org/guides-specifications/building-envelope-design-guide/roofing-systems
buildings.com/article-details/articleid/4937/title/the-basics-of-roof-maintenance
asphaltroofing.org/bur-multi-ply-built-up-roofing/
whysprayfoam.org/spray-foam/roofing-systems/
amtrustfinancial.com/getmedia/7d774cf7-d8f4-455f-8b0d-a0d03a1c23fb/IBHS-Commercial-Roof-Best-Practices-Guide.pdf

See Commercial Roof Installation for the first version of this content.

The materials, and equipment found on a commercial roof are susceptible to the elements, leaks and costly damage. Taking measures to fix and prevent that damage, can save a ton of money and dramatically extend the life of your commercial roofing system.

atlantacommercialroofingcontractors.com gathered information about 3 common commercial roof leak causes, solutions, and how to prevent them altogether.

Commercial Roofing Penetration and Leaks

Industry-wide, the most common roofing complaints are for leaking roofing systems. Commercial roof penetrations are often the culprit and may include vent pipes, drains, wiring connections, or any related equipment that creates an opening or hole in the roofing system.

Cause – Leaks generally occur around the penetration or joint, and when its waterproofing (flashing, pitch pans, etc.) are poorly or improperly installed. However, severe weather events and nuisance wildlife can compromise the integrity of the installation.

Solution – After discovering which penetration is causing the leak, one of the following should be repaired or replaced:

• Flashing – The waterproof layer of material keeping water from leaking through joints, vents, or appliance connection points. Read more about Types and Purpose of Commercial Roof Flashing at atlantacommercialroofingcontractors.com/types-purpose-flashing/
• Pitch Pans – Used as sealants around rooftop penetrations and pipes exiting through a roof.

Depending on the roofing system, the combination of a pitch pan and flashing may be necessary to seal the penetration.

Make sure to verify that the object penetrating the roofing system is firmly held in place. The slightest vibration or movement over time will cancel out even the best waterproofing, allowing water into your property.

Poor Commercial Roofing System Installation (Bad Contractor)

If your roofing system was poorly installed, you can expect to experience everything from minor/major leaks, and partial or complete failure if your contractor neglected quality control checks, manufacturers guidelines, or necessary procedures.

Cause – Poor commercial roofing installations are generally the result of inexperienced, unqualified, or negligent contractors who cut corners, rush through installations, and neglect manufacturers and general safety guidelines.

Solution – Use strict guidelines when vetting roofing contractors to repair or replace a roofing system. To qualify a roofing company, do the following:

• Check the company’s references.
• Visit locations of their previous installations.
• Read through their online reviews.
• Search for complaints and resolutions through the Better Business Bureau at bbb.org.
• Verify the company’s license to operate in your city.
• Request proof of insurance coverage.
• (Once contracted) Request copies of all permits attained to allow the lawful repair or replacement of your roofing system.
• Request information about their warranty policy.

Reputable roofing contractors will make all of this readily available for your review.

If you suspect that your roof was poorly installed, have it inspected and thoroughly documented to hold the roofing company accountable for the repair or replacement of their faulty work.

You can learn more about common Mistakes that Most Roofers Won’t Tell You by visiting atlantacommercialroofingcontractors.com/15-mistakes-roofers-wont-tell-you/

Commercial Roofing System Scrapes, Punctures, and Holes

TPO, EPDM, and PVC membrane systems are vulnerable to being scraped, punctured, and developing holes that go unnoticed until severe damage has occurred.

Cause – The causes for scrapes, punctures, and holes in your roofing system may include:

• Storm Debris
• Foot Traffic
• Equipment Maintenance, Repair, and Replacement
• Wildlife
• Poor Roof Installation
• Defective Material
• Inferior Quality Repairs or Patchwork

Over time, this type of damage can lead to rotting or destabilizing your roofing system’s support structure. This can result in catastrophic loss if it leads to a complete roofing system failure.

Solution – The following measures will help prevent scrapes, punctures, and holes from causing significant damages to your building:

• Install raised walkways, rooftop pavers, or walk pads from roof access points to machinery and equipment.
• Have pathways reinforced where walkways are not possible.
• Schedule thorough inspections after equipment maintenance, severe weather events, or the discovery of wildlife activity.
• Restrict roof access to maintenance and technical crew members.
• Have the roof inspected annually for signs of shrinkage, expansion, weathering, or other signs of trouble.

If left unmanaged, this type of damage has the potential to void the manufacturers and maintenance warranties.

When having your roof repaired, the expansion and contraction of materials from temperature and weather conditions must be taken into account. In many cases, the source of a leaky roof is the poor or inadequate repair of a previous issue.

Leaky Roof Prevention

Among the best measures of leak prevention for a roofing system is not to ignore it. Routine inspections and a roof maintenance plan are far less costly than a partial or total roof replacement.

Take immediate action when damage occurs. Problems with roofing systems don’t go away on their own, and are exacerbated when avoided or repairs are delayed.

Commercial Roof Leaks

If you don’t know how to address these common leaky roof issues, your building could be severely compromised and require extensive repairs well before its time.

In this article, you discovered 3 common leaky roof scenarios, what causes them, and how to quickly solve them.

Allowing problems with your leaking roof to persist will lead to structural damages, rot, mold, mildew, and very costly repairs. In the case of roofing systems, everything you can do to fix and prevent leaks is far less expensive than repairing structural damage to the building or having to replace your roof entirely.

Sources:
https://www.copper.org/applications/architecture/arch_dhb/arch-details/flashings_copings/roof_penetrations.html
https://www.nachi.org/roofs.htm

See 3 Leaky Roof Causes and Solutions for the first version of this content.