Causes of a Leaking Roof and Potential Mold Damage

9/9/2020 (Permalink)

Roof inspection in a Red Rock, GA commercial building

Potential Causes Of Roof Leaks 

Commercial facilities often have flat roofs, which are often more prone to damage and wear. Unfortunately, if these issues are not mitigated and repaired immediately, your facility may experience a ceiling leak. While a small roof leak may not seem too bad, within 24 to 48 hours, black mold spores can root and begin to develop and colonize, according to most mold remediation companies in Red Rock, GA. There are several potential causes of roof leaks, which should automatically lead to inspections.

Storm damage
Winter damage
Age
Seal failure

Storm Damage
Severe weather can often result in minor to significant roof damage. High winds can cause flying debris, like tree branches, which can puncture the rubber membrane of a flat roof. Heavy rainfall can lead to gutter systems being overwhelmed, flooding parts of the roof, which can lead to worn seals and entry through vents or skylights. You should always perform a quick inspection after any significant storm.

Winter Damage
Frigid temperatures can often have devastating effects on roofing systems, especially with heavy snowfalls and ice. Any commercial facility should consider having a roof inspection after a, particularly difficult winter to ensure that all roofing systems are intact.

Age
It is common knowledge that a roof is only good for so long, whether that is 15 or 20 years. As flat roofs age, cracks can appear as can glue failure, materials disintegrate, and result in inadequate protection of the substructure. When approaching the end of a guarantee with a roof, make sure to have frequent inspections, and perform necessary repairs.

Seal Failure
Seals around vents, skylights, and HVAC systems do not have the same life expectancy as your roof. It is crucial to assess the strength and protective quality of your seals to reduce the risks of water damage and black mold growth in the future.
Mold growth can occur in as little as two days. Make sure that your roof is healthy and stable with annual inspections to reduce your risks of water damage and black mold development.