If a roof inspection reveals damage, should you repair or replace a commercial roof? Factors, such as age, material, and extent of damage, all need to be taken into consideration. Find out when a roof is no longer salvageable and requires a replacement.

Age of Roof

Commercial roofs typically have a shorter lifespan than residential roofs. Most last for about 15 to 20 years, depending on material and quality of construction. Once the roof reaches that age, you may need to replace it the next time an inspection shows damage.

Leak Damage

How often does the roof leak? If the roof is 10-years-old and only had a single instance of a leak, that does not warrant an entire replacement. However, a roof of the same age that has had multiple leaks, saturation, and cracks around the walls may no longer be reliable.

With respects to leaks, we usually apply the three strikes rule. Three separate instances of leaks probably mean a replacement is necessary. This is especially the case if the leaks occurred within close proximity and within a short timeframe. 

Membrane Damage

The roof membrane causes water to slide off the surface. Over the years, the membrane may begin to give way as cracks and blisters form. Too much damage to the membrane may make the roof irreparable. 

Overall Damage

Experts typically recommend a replacement if more than 25% of the roof is damaged. We also advise replacement if the roof was previously recovered. We generally don’t advise recovering the same roof more than once. See our previous post on roof recovery.

We Replace and Repair Commercial Roofs

Much of the above also applies to residential roofs. Contact Urbizo Bros Roofing for your next roof inspection and other services. Only an in-person examination can determine definitively whether you need to repair or replace a commercial roof.

Mukilteo Roof Repair and Replacement

Quality roof replacement & repair in Edmonds, Seattle, Lynnwood,Mill Creek, Mercer Island, Mukilteo & South Everett