Your roof won’t tell you when it’s failing. Here’s how to stay ahead of it.
This one is for the do-it-all operations leaders out there. Between supply chain headaches, production targets, safety protocols, and staffing challenges, there’s always something that calls for your attention.
Now add in responsibility for the building itself. And specifically, the roof.
It was replaced 18 years ago. It’s held strong through years of lake-effect snow, windstorms, summer heat, and everything in between. But now? It’s at a point where proactive care matters more than ever, and you might need to take a second look at when your warranty runs through.
Here’s the good news: you don’t need to climb up there with a caulk gun and seal the thing yourself. What you do need is a clear plan to manage the roof’s health. A plan to make smart decisions, extend its life, and avoid surprise shutdowns or costly emergency fixes.
Built for the person who’s expected to “own the building” and all the operations that take place within it, this is your practical guide to becoming the internal roofing expert your business needs.
No jargon. No fluff.
Just a set of smart, actionable steps that help you protect your facility, your budget, and your peace of mind.
Let’s get started.
1. Losing Historical Information
To be the internal roofing expert your business needs, you start by learning the history of the roof. Documenting that history depends on how well your business organizes maintenance records and warranty information, and how much information might have been lost over the years to employee turnover.
Start by digging up a centralized record, or building your own if needed, including:
- Roof’s last replacement date and system type
- Warranty provider, coverage, and expiration date
- Past repairs or leak history
- Maintenance and inspection reports
Not only does this help with planning and budgeting, it can save your business real money. Many commercial roofs are under warranty for up to 20 years — but only if you follow the required maintenance schedule. A missed inspection can void your coverage.
If you’re not sure what kind of roof you have or what’s still covered, a good roofing partner can help you sort it out.
2. Inspect Flashings and Penetrations
Wherever something creates an opening in your roof, you’ve got an opportunity for vapor or water to leak in. Think about HVAC units, air vents, drains, or even skylights. These roof “penetrations,” along with the flashings that seal them, are some of the most common sources of roof leaks.
You don’t have to climb up and inspect them yourself, but you should be sure someone is. A facility walkthrough with your roofing partner should include checking:
- Flashings for cracks or separations
- Deteriorated sealants around units or pipes
- Debris buildup that could trap moisture
By catching issues early, you can make quick, affordable fixes that prevent larger repairs or early roof replacements.
3. Look for Cracks or Blisters in the Roof Membrane
The membrane is the waterproof layer of your roof that prevents leaks. Over time, exposure to sun, temperature swings, and foot traffic can wear it down.
What are some of the common types of membranes used?
- EPDM (rubber): A flexible, black membrane known for durability and resistance to weather.
- TPO (thermoplastic polyolefin): A white, reflective membrane that helps reduce heat gain and is popular for energy efficiency.
- PVC (polyvinyl chloride): Also a white membrane, known for chemical resistance and used often on restaurants or industrial facilities.
- Modified bitumen: A multi-ply system made from asphalt and reinforced with fabric or fiberglass.
- Built-up roofing (BUR): An older system made of multiple layers of asphalt and felt, topped with gravel.
Blisters, bubbles, or cracks indicate moisture or air getting trapped under the surface. They may not be causing a leak yet, but we want to be proactive.
Routine inspections should include a walk of the surface to review the membrane’s health, especially around seams, ponding areas, or heavily-used service paths. When you plan for quarterly or seasonal inspections, you’ll have less “unexpected” changes in your roof’s health.
4. Check for Loose or Missing Edge Metal
Supporting the membrane, edge metal helps secure your roof and protect the perimeter from wind and water damage.
While ponding water might be more of a visible concern – more on that soon – water from rain or snow can also get underneath exposed edges. If you see metal that’s loose, detached, or missing, know that it’s not just a cosmetic issue. It can compromise your whole roofing system from the edges in.
Regular perimeter checks from ground level go a long way so you can schedule prompt repairs when needed.
5. Watch for Ponding Water (Especially After Rain or Snowmelt)
Standing water that lingers on your roof for more than 48 hours is a red flag. It means your drainage system isn’t working properly.
Whether due to clogged drains, poor slope, or structural settling, ponding puts added weight on your building and speeds up membrane breakdown. If water starts freezing and thawing in place during winter, that can compound the damage quicker.
Seasonal checkups are a sound best practice, but after an especially heavy rain or snow event, it might be worth it to schedule a look up top. If you see persistent pooling, or if you know your roof is starting to age, call your roofer to investigate. It’s far better to adjust slope or clear a drain now than wait for a mid-winter leak or spring surprise.
6. Pay Attention to Indoor Warning Signs
Checking for roof issues outside is key. If issues are left untreated, you’ll likely start to see (or smell) signs of those issues inside before long.
Keep an eye out for:
- Water stains on ceilings or walls
- Unexplained moisture or humidity issues
- Dripping water around vents or pipes
- Mold, mildew, or musty smells in top-floor rooms
If these issues are happening inside, the problem is likely further along than you think. Flag the issue as soon as possible and get a professional assessment.
7. Delaying Repairs: If You See Something, Say Something
Small issues become big ones fast when it comes to roof maintenance. What could have been a $500 repair today might be a $50,000 system replacement if left unattended.
As the operations manager, you’re not expected to fix roofing problems with your own hands. But you are the person who can make sure they’re addressed, quickly and correctly.
A good roofing partner is an operations leader’s best asset on this front. The truth is you never have to figure it out alone.
Find the Right Partner for the Roof Over Your Head
When you’re responsible for keeping operations running smoothly, your roof shouldn’t be a question mark. The right roofing partner helps you stay ahead of issues, avoid costly surprises, and protect the building your business depends on.
At Grove Roofing, we specialize in giving Buffalo businesses peace of mind through honest assessments, hard-earned expertise, and long-term maintenance strategies.
Don’t wait for a leak to start managing your roof’s future. Call Grove Roofing today to schedule your next inspection. Let’s make a proactive plan that protects your facility and your budget. That’s Roofing Done Right.