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MT: (406) 752-6728
ID: (208) 410-6821
MT: (406) 752-6728
ID: (208) 410-6821
Spring is a great time for commercial property owners to check up on their roofs and take care of any issues that might’ve popped up over the winter. Snow, ice, wind, and freezing temperatures can be rough on commercial roofs, especially the flat or complex ones. Doing an inspection early in the season helps you catch problems before they get expensive and gives your roof a better shot at lasting longer. Here are some of the most common roofing issues people tend to find during spring checkups—and what you should do about them:
During the winter, gutters can fill up with all sorts of junk—leaves, pine needles, dirt, you name it. Ice dams might’ve formed too, blocking the normal flow. When gutters get clogged or sag, water doesn’t drain like it should. Instead, it spills over, hits your siding, soaks the foundation, or pools on the roof. That extra weight and moisture can lead to leaks and mold. Clean your gutters regularly and make sure downspouts are doing their job and moving water away from the building.
Small leaks can sneak up on you and turn into major problems fast. When temps go up and down all winter, roofing materials expand and contract, making seams and flashing weaker. Even a tiny hole or split in a seam can let in water—especially during heavy spring rains. You might notice water stains, mold, peeling paint, or wet insulation. Spotting these signs early is key. Thermal imaging can also help reveal hidden moisture beneath the surface.
Flat and low-slope roofs are more likely to have water sitting around longer than it should. If water’s still sitting after 48 hours, it’s a red flag. This usually means drainage is poor or the structure is sagging in places. Over time, that standing water wears down the roofing membrane and adds stress to the building. Some warranties won’t even cover roofs with recurring ponding issues. Check the scuppers, internal drains, and slope to make sure water has a clear path off the roof.
People walking on the roof—like HVAC techs or electricians—can damage the membrane, especially on single-ply roofs like TPO or EPDM. That foot traffic can wear things down or cause punctures. Spring’s a good time to check out any walkways, equipment bases, and spots that have been repaired before. Adding walk pads in high-traffic areas and limiting access can help protect the roof.
Asphalt shingle roofs can take a beating from winter storms. High winds might lift or rip shingles, and snow or freezing rain can cause them to crack or curl. Once shingles are compromised, water can get underneath and start causing rot or leaks. Swap out damaged shingles as soon as possible, and make sure attic ventilation is working right to keep internal moisture under control.
Flashing helps seal roof edges and transitions—like around vents, skylights, or HVAC units. Over time, weather can wear it down, or movement in the building can cause it to loosen up. When flashing starts rusting or pulling away, leaks follow. It’s one of the top causes of commercial roof leaks. Take a close look at all the flashing during your inspection and reseal or replace anything that’s worn out. Focus especially on roof-to-wall connections.
Rubber roofing systems like EPDM can shrink after extreme cold. When that happens, the edges of the membrane pull away from the flashings or seams, making it easy for water to get in. You might notice pulled seams, lifted edges, or small cracks near the perimeter. If you spot this early, it’s easier to fix before it causes serious damage.
With warmer weather, animals and insects start looking for places to nest—and your roof could be their target. Rodents, birds, and bugs can sneak in through loose flashing or broken vents and start tearing up insulation and wiring. They also leave behind droppings and other messes. Look for signs like nests, chewed materials, or droppings, and seal up any potential entry points. Pest barriers can help keep them out.
If roof drains are full of debris, water has nowhere to go. Melting snow and spring rains can mix with dirt and clog things up. That extra water weighs down the roof and might even leak inside. Keep up with maintenance by cleaning drains regularly and testing drainage during light rain or with a hose.
A lot of long-term roof issues come back to bad installation work. If membranes weren’t applied right, adhesives weren’t used properly, or flashing wasn’t sealed tight, you’re going to see problems down the line. Use the spring inspection to review any past work and double-check that it meets building codes and manufacturer standards. If issues keep coming back, it might be time to get a second opinion from a reputable contractor.
Spring inspections are one of the smartest ways to stay ahead of roof problems. Catching winter damage early means fewer headaches when summer storms roll in. Keeping up with inspections and basic maintenance can help your roof last years longer and save you a ton on emergency fixes. If you’re running a warehouse, strip mall, or office space, having a reliable commercial roofer in your corner makes all the difference.
At Advanced Roofing, we handle everything from inspections to repairs and full replacements for commercial roofing systems. Our team knows what to look for and how to fix problems before they get worse. Contact us today to get a free roofing estimate and make sure your building is good to go for the seasons ahead.
