Commercial buildings in New Jersey face a range of weather extremes throughout the year—from heavy snow in winter to strong summer storms and fluctuating temperatures. These environmental challenges often lead to significant wear and tear on commercial roofs. Understanding the most common commercial roofing problems in New Jersey can help property managers and business owners proactively protect their investment and avoid costly repairs.
In this post, we break down the top 10 issues and offer expert prevention tips from Boundless Roofing & Chimney, your trusted commercial roofing professionals in NJ.
📞 Need immediate help? Call us at 973-960-7921 or request a free estimate today.
1. Ponding Water
Problem: Flat or low-slope commercial roofs are particularly susceptible to ponding water, which occurs when water accumulates in low spots and doesn’t drain properly. Over time, this can degrade roofing materials and lead to leaks.
Prevention: Ensure proper drainage systems like internal drains and scuppers are clear of debris. Regular inspections by a roofing professional help spot early signs of trouble.
2. Membrane Blistering and Bubbling
Problem: When moisture gets trapped beneath the roofing membrane, it can cause blistering or bubbling. This compromises the roof’s protective layer and can lead to leaks or full membrane failure.
Prevention: Hire certified roofers to ensure proper installation. Regular maintenance and prompt repairs prevent moisture intrusion.
3. Flashing Failures
Problem: Flashing is used to seal joints and edges, such as around HVAC units or chimneys. If not installed properly or if it deteriorates, it becomes a common source of leaks.
Prevention: Schedule regular inspections of flashings and replace them as soon as deterioration is noticed.
4. Cracked or Split Seams
Problem: Seam failures can allow water to seep under the roof system, leading to structural damage. Temperature fluctuations in New Jersey can cause materials to expand and contract, contributing to seam damage.
Prevention: Seam maintenance is key. Consider reinforced membranes or seamless coatings that can handle extreme weather variation.
5. Roof Punctures and Tears
Problem: Heavy foot traffic, dropped tools, or severe storms can cause punctures or tears in roofing membranes, especially on flat roofs.
Prevention: Limit rooftop access and install walk pads where needed. Conduct post-storm inspections to catch any physical damage early.
6. Clogged Gutters and Drains
Problem: If gutters and roof drains are clogged with leaves, dirt, or debris, water can back up onto the roof, leading to ponding and eventual leaks.
Prevention: Establish a quarterly cleaning routine, especially during the fall and after heavy storms.
7. UV Damage and Aging
Problem: Roofs in New Jersey face strong sunlight in summer and freezing conditions in winter. UV rays can degrade roofing materials over time, reducing their effectiveness.
Prevention: Apply a reflective or protective roof coating to reduce UV exposure and prolong your roof’s lifespan.
8. Poor Installation Practices
Problem: Even the best roofing materials won’t perform well if installed incorrectly. Poor installation is a leading cause of premature roof failure.
Prevention: Always work with licensed and experienced commercial roofing contractors like Boundless Roofing & Chimney.
9. Roof Shrinkage
Problem: Certain membrane materials, like EPDM, may shrink over time due to sun and weather exposure. This can pull away from walls or flashings and cause damage.
Prevention: Regular inspections and timely reinforcement of membrane edges help prevent separation and shrink-related damage.
10. Neglected Maintenance
Problem: Perhaps the most common issue—neglect. Failing to maintain your roof regularly invites small problems to become expensive repairs.
Prevention: Sign up for a commercial roof maintenance plan. Boundless Roofing & Chimney offers comprehensive service plans tailored to your roof’s specific needs.
Why Routine Maintenance Matters
Preventive maintenance is the key to avoiding emergency repairs and costly downtime. We recommend professional inspections at least twice a year, ideally in spring and fall, and always after major weather events.
How Boundless Roofing & Chimney Can Help
At Boundless Roofing & Chimney, we specialize in diagnosing and repairing commercial roofing problems in New Jersey. Our experienced team is trained to handle all types of commercial roof systems, including EPDM, TPO, PVC, BUR, and modified bitumen.
We provide:
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Expert inspections
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Honest, clear estimates
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Preventive maintenance plans
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Roof coating and waterproofing
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Emergency repairs
📞 Call now at 973-960-7921 to speak with a roofing expert.
📍 Or click here to schedule your free estimate.
Final Thoughts
Your commercial roof is a critical part of your business investment. By staying informed about common issues and taking preventive measures, you can extend the life of your roof and save significantly on future repairs. Whether you’re dealing with leaks, flashing issues, or ponding water, Boundless Roofing & Chimney is ready to help.
Let us handle your roof—so you can focus on your business.