While commercial and industrial facilities frequently use durable, long-lasting roofing materials like metal or EPDM rubber, this doesn’t mean their roof will last forever. When damage occurs, determining whether you need a roof repair or a full replacement will have a significant impact on your operations and budget. Below is how you can determine the best course of action.

Consider Roof Age & Scope of Damage

Whether or not roof replacement will be necessary is largely dependent on how widespread the damage to your roof is. A leak that only affects one small portion of the roof can typically be repaired. However, widespread leaks and cracks indicate a failure of the roof membrane or other serious issues with the structure or certain materials.

Even with relatively minor repair issues, business owners should also consider the age of their roofs. Commercial roofs generally have a lifespan of about 20 years. If you need repairs and your roof is over 15 years old, it will likely be more cost-effective to replace it now. This is especially true of roofs with a history of multiple leaks and other repair issues.

Roof Repair Alternatives for Select Materials

While materials like asphalt shingles should be repaired or replaced just like any residential structure, commercial buildings that use EPDM roof membranes often have additional repair options available.

Roof membranes can be recovered or recoated to address repair issues at a lower cost than a full replacement. The additional membrane layer provides extra protection against leaks and can improve energy efficiency without the intensive labor required for a full roof replacement. However, the existing membrane must be in decent structural condition and cannot have wet insulation for this to be a viable option.

If you find yourself in need of roof repair, contact A & J Quality Roofing in New Hartford, CT. Serving Litchfield County for over 62 years, these third-generation roof contractors have established a reputation for reliable, trustworthy work for homeowners and businesses alike. To learn more about their services, visit them online or call (860) 836-9427.