Though commercial roof expenditures are not as common as employee payroll or merchandise acquisition costs, business owners still need to pay attention to their shop’s roofing—and without proper care and maintenance, the cost for proper roofing can get very high very quickly. When properly installed and maintained, your roof will protect your valuable assets, employees, and operations from the elements—but without proper care, even the highest quality commercial roofs can deteriorate prematurely. Let us walk you through some of our proven strategies for extending the lifespan of commercial roofs.

The Factors That Influence a Commercial Roof Lifespan

Proper commercial roof maintenance can increase your roof’s lifespan by 21 years, which translates to significant cost savings over time. In contrast, a cave-in due to a failing roof can cause collateral damage to inventory, equipment, and interior structures, disrupt business operations, and create safety hazards for employees and customers.

Keep these following factors in mind while installing your roof, in order to extend its lifespan as long as possible.

Roofing Material Selection

The material used in your commercial roof will significantly impact its longevity, as different commercial roofing materials offer varying lifespans:

• TPO (Thermoplastic Polyolefin): 20–30 years with proper maintenance
• EPDM (Ethylene Propylene Diene Monomer): Can extend beyond 40 years when properly installed
• Metal Roofing Systems: 40–70 years with adequate slope and installation
• PVC Roofing: In our experience, PVC roofs often last up to 30 years

Installation Quality

Even the highest quality materials can fail prematurely if they do not meet safety and installation regulations. A professional installation job will ensure proper seam sealing, flashing installation, and adherence to manufacturer specifications.

Climate and Weather Exposure

Climate plays a significant role in roof longevity—especially in Pennsylvania, heavy snow, temperature fluctuations, and summer heat can impact the performance of your commercial roof.

Roof Design and Drainage

Poor drainage systems can let water pool on the surface of your roof, which causes premature degradation of your roof’s underlying materials. Proper slope design and functioning drainage systems can help prevent water accumulation.

Regular Maintenance Practices

Regular, proactive maintenance can extend your roof’s service lifespan by an average of 21 years, compared to just 13 years for reactively maintained roofs.

Essential Maintenance Strategies for Extending Your Commercial Roof’s Lifespan

Implement these maintenance strategies to add years to your commercial roof.

Scheduled Roof Inspections

Most roofing experts recommend biannual inspections to uncover potential problems before they turn into major issues. These inspections can help you uncover any issues with the following:

• Membrane condition (cracks, tears, punctures)
• Seam integrity
• Flashing and edge details
• Drainage systems
• Signs of water intrusion

Roof Cleaning and Debris Removal

Regular cleaning can prevent drain blockages, moisture retention, and debris accumulation, all of which can lead to premature deterioration.

Prompt Repairs of Minor Issues

Small problems, like minor punctures or seam separations, can escalate into major failures. A small leak, for instance, can let water penetrate the roofing system, potentially causing extensive damage to insulation, decking, and interior spaces.

Proper Ventilation Maintenance

Ventilation prevents moisture buildup and temperature extremes in the roofing system, allows stale air to escape and fresh air to enter, and maintains the system’s expected lifespan.

Advanced Strategies for Extending Commercial Roof Life

Beyond basic maintenance, businesses should consider these advanced approaches to maximize their roof longevity.

Roof Coatings and Surface Treatments

Reflective coatings can extend your roof’s life by reducing UV damage and lowering surface temperatures. According to industry statistics, cool roofs can save $0.50 per square foot in energy costs by creating an additional protective layer.

Roof Restoration Methods

For older roofs that still maintain their structural integrity, consider restoration rather than replacement. Restoration typically costs 50-70% less than complete replacement while adding years to the roof’s serviceable life.

Weatherproofing Commercial Roofs for Pennsylvania’s Climate

Pennsylvania’s weather patterns require that business owners take specific steps to maximize their roof’s performance. For instance, the heavy snow accumulation during winter can stress commercial roofing systems—a set snow removal protocol can help clear any excessive snow accumulation on the roof without damaging roofing materials.

Temperature swings during spring and fall can cause roofing materials to expand and contract. However, if you install quality commercial roofing materials for the climate, your roof can resist these changes a bit better.

When melting snow refreezes at roof edges, it creates ice dams that can potentially force water under roofing materials. Proper insulation, ventilation, and drainage can reduce this risk during the wetter seasons.

Recognizing Signs of Roof Deterioration

If you catch any signs of deterioration early, you can fix them before they turn into more major issues. Look for these signs of potential structural problems:

• Cracks, tears, or punctures in the roofing membrane
• Blistering or bubbling on the roof surface
• Loose or displaced flashing
• Visible water stains on interior ceilings or walls

Any water leakage or moisture issues, or unexplained energy costs, can point toward a deteriorating roof.

Working with Commercial Roofing Professionals

You need a qualified roofing professionals to properly install or repair your commercial roof and increase its lifespan as much as possible—but with faster-than-average growth in the roofing industry, you may have a hard time selecting the right contractor for your business.

Choose contractors with specific experience, proper licensing, and strong references. When you ask for an initial evaluation, your contractor’s inspection should include a detailed assessment of all roofing components, documentation of existing conditions, identification of potential problems, and specific recommendations for maintenance or repairs.

Whoever installs your roof should offer a commercial roof warranty to cover materials and workmanship.

Make the Most of Your Investment with the Right Extending Commercial Roof Lifespan at RoofsOnly.com

Commercial roofs can cost Pennsylvania business owners a significant amount—but the protection and safety that they offer can pay back in dividends. Trust the installation experts at RoofsOnly.com to help you maximize your roofing investment through quality installations, professional maintenance programs, and responsive service. As a trusted roofing contractor in Texas, RoofsOnly.com provides specialized services for multi-family properties and commercial buildings like yours.

Contact us online or call us at (512) 746-7090 or fill out our online contact form for a free roof inspection. With RoofsOnly.com, you can protect your building while controlling long-term costs. Call us to experience the benefits of professional roof management today.