As a business owner, it’s your responsibility to maintain the condition of the building where you operate. One essential aspect is regularly looking for issues that might require flat roof repairs. If you’re unsure about when to call a roofer, here are a few common signs of roofing damage.

How to Tell If You Need Flat Roof Repairs

1. Water Leaks

When flat roofs become supersaturated, usually because of ponding water, the roofing membrane can become damaged. If this happens, water can seep underneath the covering and flow down into the ceiling of the building, where you’ll notice dark spots on the walls and ceilings. Have roof repairs done before the leak worsens or the roofing materials become too damaged and must be replaced.

2. Fishmouth Membrane

During your roof inspection, check for openings in the roofing felt that resemble a fish’s mouth at the edges of the membrane. When this occurs, air and water can get underneath the covering, reducing insulation and potentially leading to leaks. If it's only recently occurred, a roofing contractor can quickly repair it. However, if the membrane has been like this for a while, more severe damage might have developed. 

3. Blistering

If air or moisture is trapped between the layers of roofing membrane on your flat roof, they can develop blisters. When these pockets are exposed to sunlight, they will expand and stretch, eventually resulting in membrane cracking and surface peeling. If you notice these problems or if the blister is near a seam or heavy foot traffic, bring in a professional to apply new membrane material.

Maintain the health of your commercial flat roof by calling the professionals at Tory's Roofing & Waterproofing. The family-owned business has served Pearl City, HI, and the rest of Oahu for over 40 years. They provide all customers with their All Roofing Maintenance Program, which will cover your roof for up to five years. Call them today at (808) 456-5990 to schedule an appointment for roof repairs, and visit their website to learn more about their services.