Managing a commercial property is no piece of cake. It usually involves a complex interplay of multiple stakeholders that require constant balancing of revenue and costs.
Commercial property owners and facility managers must also pay close attention to ongoing maintenance needs. As per Deloitte’s 2025 Commercial Real Estate Outlook report, the sector will be marked by a growing imperative for sustainable real estate strategies.
After all, everyone must join the fight against climate change. This may include every part of the building, including the roof. For instance, ‘cool roof’ technologies may help reflect sunlight and heat, lowering the surrounding temperatures.
All such innovations cannot become a part of an aging roof. When maintained properly, a commercial roof’s lifespan extends between 20 and 30 years. If your property’s roof is past that age, it will likely show signs of replacement. In this article, we will discuss those signs along with the best designs to choose from.
3 Signs Your Commercial Roof Has Deteriorated
The commercial roofing market is expected to grow generously, by 6.2% between 2023 and 2030, from a net worth of $11.90 billion to $18.13 billion.
Among all the available types, flat commercial roofs are the most common. This has to do with their affordability and faster installation. It is closely followed by low-sloped and pitched roofs.
We will get to that, but first, let’s discuss the top three signs of an aging commercial roof. If you notice these signs, it’s time for repairs or a replacement.
#1. Unexplained Rise in Energy Costs
Have you noticed a significant rise in your commercial property’s utility bills? This is typically one of the clearest signs that the roof has reached the end of its life.
As roofing materials age, they tend to lose their insulation effectiveness. Heating and cooling systems may have to work longer and harder to maintain optimal indoor temperature. Besides an unexplained rise in energy costs, it would reduce your property’s efficiency and comfort for those inside.
#2. Recurring Leaks
Another telltale sign of an aging commercial roof is recurring leaks. Common signs of roof leakages include stains on walls or ceilings, peeling paint, visible cracks or bubbles, and damaged shingles.
In some cases, recurring leakages may lead to mold and mildew growth. When combined with high heat and humidity, the results can be truly disastrous.
A similar crisis had overtaken many apartments in Denver, Colorado this summer. The extreme heat along with leaks in older buildings had led to aggressive mold and mildew growth.
According to Peak Builders & Roofers of Denver, addressing this problem is crucial as it may lead to severe water damage in the future. Now, this sign of aging may not always call for an immediate replacement.
This is especially true if you’re observing leaks for the first time around. However, prompt repairs are your only hope to extend the roof’s lifespan.
If you’re experiencing such issues, take action now. For reliable commercial roof repair, click here for expert services that will prevent leakage issues from getting worse. In case you want a replacement, even that’s not a bad idea after all.
#3. Structural Damage
Some commercial roofs sound a loud trumpet that they’ve arrived at the end of their lives. This usually happens in the form of visible structural damage and deformities.
For instance, a roof that sags or develops uneven surfaces has underlying structural issues. This problem must be addressed at the earliest as it poses a serious risk to the building’s structural integrity.
Risks of Ignoring Such Signs
When it comes to roofs, we would go as far as saying that even minor issues can quickly escalate into serious problems. Regular inspection is the way to go, as it will help identify issues early on and help address them.
If you nip the problem in its bud, the roof may last longer. At the most, you can opt for a suitable replacement that will keep the building’s structural integrity intact.
If your commercial property stands in an area that experiences harsh weather conditions, these signs can become a safety hazard. Whether your finances take a hit or people’s lives are in danger, an aging commercial roof is no trivial matter. It is best to address it sooner than later.
Best Commercial Roof Designs: Factors to Consider
In 2024, roofing trends, in general, leaned more toward functionality than aesthetics. This is what led to a greater emphasis on durable and long-lasting materials.
If you’re planning to replace your commercial property’s roof, keep in mind that you cannot take a one-size-fits-all approach. Your choice should be informed by several factors, including the following:
Weather
What do the weather conditions at your property’s location demand? If they’re harsh and unpredictable, you might want to stick with metal roofing. Keep in mind that climate change will have a significant say in this regard.
For instance, Denver is one city that has exhibited climate extremes recently. Despite having a semi-arid climate, the 2024 summer was the second-hottest on record.
This calls for roofing materials that can effectively reflect heat and lead to energy efficiency. Metal roofing is one such material that brings the added benefit of weather resistance. Examples include copper, steel, and aluminum.
Budget
After the area’s climate, your budget is an important consideration for commercial roof replacement. The key is to choose a commercial roof type that lies within your financial constraints.
However, the same should not mean a compromise on quality. Instead of just looking at the immediate costs, adopt a long-term perspective.
Roofs of asphalt shingles and metals are highly durable, and some even increase energy efficiency. From a long-term viewpoint, these will prove to be more cost-effective regardless of the immediate costs.
Local Building Codes and Regulations
All things remaining equal, the local building codes and regulations also have a say in the type of commercial roofing required. Certain areas have specific rules and regulations in terms of energy efficiency, fire resistance, and wind uplift ratings.
This component may not be easy to address. It may become crucial to work with a certified roofing contractor who thoroughly understands the local regulations. This will help achieve compliance and ensure the new roof can stand the test of time, the elements, and natural disasters (seismic codes).
Commercial roofs are a huge but necessary investment. The best choice will depend on various factors, each of which must be well thought out.
Balance them all against your unique tastes and preferences because each style has its pros and cons. Even after you’ve made a choice, consult with your roofing contractor for valuable insights.
That’s how you will find a commercial roof that meets your objectives. As for the signs of aging, do not take them lightly. Early detection and repairs/replacement is the only way forward.
