It’s estimated that every year, building owners spend about $12 billion replacing their roofing. Replacing your commercial roof might seem like a daunting task, and you might be wondering how often to replace your roof and what your options might be.

There are a lot of factors that go into deciding when you need a new roof. In this brief guide, you will learn some signs for when to replace your roof. There are many options for replacing your commercial roof in Chicagoland, so keep reading to see how Great Lakes Roofing can help.

Signs You Need a New Roof 

There are several ways to determine when you need a new roof. Some signs aren’t obvious, so it is important to pay attention to know when you should take action. Failing to repair damage to your roof can leave lasting damage and speed up the need for a full replacement. 

Water Spots

A clear sign that you need to repair or replace your roof is if there is water damage. Commercial roofs are often flat or low-sloped, leading to the likelihood of water pooling up and weakening your roof. 

You might not be aware of the water spots on your roof immediately, but they can show up in other ways. One way to know if this is happening is if you start to notice water spots on your ceiling or places where there seems to be mold. 

Damage to Roof Membrane

There are several commercial roofing systems available, and some of the most popular utilizes a roofing membrane. This is a water-tight rubber material used to protect your building. One of the most common systems is EPDM, which is a highly durable rubber used all over the world.

But, over time, the roof membrane can become damaged or blistered, which is when air or moisture is trapped and bubbles up. Left unchecked, this can cause a crack in your roofing system, leading to further damage.

Do You Know How Often to Replace Your Roof?

Many commercial building owners are unsure of when to get a new roof. Depending on the kind of roof, the typical lifespan can vary. By learning how often to replace your roof, you can recognize if there’s a problem with your roofing system that you need to address immediately.

Roofs will typically last the following amount of time:

• EPDM – 20-30 years
• PVC – 20-30 years
• TPO – 22-30 years
• Asphalt – 20-40 years
• Metal – 30-45 years

A lot can factor into these timespans, most importantly the weather and how well the roof is maintained. By maintaining your roof, you can extend its use and avoid a full replacement for years to come.

Discover Your Options Today

Knowing how often to replace your roof can help you save thousands in the years to come. You can learn preventative measures to increase your roof’s lifespan and ensure you get the most out of your commercial roof.

Learning signs of roof damage and how long they last is just the first step. For more information and a free inspection with an estimate, contact our team today for your commercial roofing needs.