If you’ve been an entrepreneur for a while, you’ve likely had to deal with your fair share of maintenance and repairs. There’s always something that needs to be fixed from broken windows to clogged toilets. But when it comes to your roof, it’s important to be proactive rather than reactive. After all, your roof is one of the most essential components of your business, and a small problem can quickly become a big one if it’s not addressed in a timely manner. So how can you tell if your business needs a new roof? Here are five signs to look for.
1. Your Roof Is Leaking
This is probably the most obvious sign that you need a new roof. If your roof is leaking, it’s not going to be able to do its job of protecting your business from the elements. In addition, a leaky roof can cause significant damage to your property, so it’s important to address the problem as soon as possible.
According to Home Advisor, the average cost of a roof replacement is $3.50 to $5 per square foot, depending on your location and roofing materials. While this may seem like a significant investment, it’s important to remember that water damage can be much more costly. So if your roof is leaking, it’s time to start shopping around for a new one.
2. Your Roof Is Sagging
Sagging roofs are usually caused by a problem with the trusses, which are the support beams that hold up your roof. If they’re not properly aligned, it can cause your roof to sag. This is a serious problem because it can eventually lead to your roof collapsing. So if you notice your roof sagging, don’t hesitate to call a professional. Remember, it’s not unusual for sagging roofs to collapse, so this is not a problem that you should ignore. And never attempt to fix a sagging roof yourself. This is a job for a professional.
3. Your Roof Is Missing Shingles
Shingles are an essential part of your roof and serve two important purposes. First, they protect your building from the elements. And second, they add to the aesthetic appeal of your business. So if you notice that your roof is missing shingles, it’s time to get a new roof.
There are a few different reasons why shingles may fall off your roof. It could be due to age, wind damage, or even improper installation. Regardless of the reason, missing shingles leave your business vulnerable to water damage and other problems. Remember, a new asphalt shingle roof can give up to 62% return on investment, so it’s definitely worth the investment.
4. Your Roof Is Old
Even if your roof isn’t showing any of the other signs on this list, it may still be time for a replacement. The average lifespan of a commercial roof is 20 to 30 years, so if yours is approaching that age, it’s time to start thinking about a replacement. Of course, the exact lifespan of your roof will depend on the materials used and the climate in your area. For example, metal roofs can last up to 50 years, while asphalt shingles may only last 15 to 20 years.
Regardless of the material, it’s important to have your roof inspected by a professional every few years. This will help you catch any problems early on and prevent them from becoming bigger issues down the road.
5. A Roofer Recommends It
According to Get One Desk, there were 108,069 roofing companies in the United States in 2021. Most of these companies employ professional inspectors trained to spot roof problems. So if a roofer recommends getting a new roof, it’s probably time to take their advice.
Of course, you can always seek a second opinion from another roofing company. But if two different companies recommend a replacement, it’s probably time to start shopping for a new roof.
If your business is showing any of these signs, it’s time to start thinking about a new roof. A new roof is a significant investment, but it’s important to remember that water damage can be much more costly.
