As a commercial property owner, it is important to ensure that every aspect of your buildings remain structurally sound. Whether people work or reside in your buildings, maintenance is important for safety and preserving curb-appeal. The roof is one of the most important exterior features to look after, and sometimes this means investing in a roof replacement.

Is it time for a new roof? Below is some information about the typical lifespan of commercial roofing, what you can do to make your roof last as long as possible, and signs that it’s time for a replacement.

Factors that Affect Commercial Roof Life

Most commercial roofing manufacturers and contractors state that the average lifespan of a commercial roof is 20 to 60 years. That’s quite a huge gap, and there are a few factors that affect this. Here are some of the most influential:

  • Local Climate: If you live in an area that experiences a lot of rain, freezing temperatures, extreme heat, or other damaging weather conditions, then your roof won’t last as long as those within a more tepid area.
  • Roof Ventilation: Quality ventilation can go a long way toward making your roof last, even in harsh climates. Without proper ventilation, heat and moisture damage roofing materials more rapidly.
  • Water-Shedding Capacity: A roof that does not properly repel water is sure to experience water damage and leaks.
  • Roofing Materials: Roof lifespan largely depends on the type of roof. Asphalt shingle roofs lasts 20-30 years. Flat membrane roofs last 20 to 25 years. Flat metal roofs last 40 to 60 years, or longer.
  • Roof Installation: Even the best roofs installed in a tepid climate will fail early if they are not installed by a reputable commercial roofing company.

Tips for Making Commercial Roofs Last

Roofing can be expensive, so it makes sense that a responsible commercial property owner would want their roofs to last as long as possible. To get the most from your commercial roofing systems, ensure that you do the following:

  • Schedule Yearly Roof Inspections
  • Get a Roof Inspection After Every Severe Storm
  • Repair Roofing Damage Promptly
  • Work with Reputable Roofers
  • Invest in Durable Roofing Materials

Signs that It’s Time for a Commercial Roof Replacement

Do you need a new roof? The best way to know is to get a professional roof inspection from a local commercial roofing company. However, here are some things to keep in mind:

  • Your roof is 20-30 years old.
  • Low spots or puddled water can indicate problems with roof insulation or other issues.
  • Bubbling or blisters in TPO, PVC, or EPDM roofs means that water is penetrating the roof.
  • Damaged flashing leaves the roof vulnerable to weather damage.
  • Visible signs of wind damage or other storm-related damage could mean a roof repair or replacement.