How Long Will My Commercial Roof Last?

Like residential installations, commercial roofs have a finite lifespan. Roofs last for several years but require periodic inspections and maintenance to extend the service life. Periodically Replacing or repairing your roof protects your facility, equipment, and employees. At Great Lakes Roofing, we’ve worked tirelessly to become Chicagoland’s top commercial roofer. We’d like to share some insights concerning the lifespan of your commercial roof.

New Installation

Installing a new roof may seem like a considerable expense, but an aging roof can cause costly damage to interior equipment, decking, and flooring. Replacing an old roof can minimize further damage and improve the building’s aesthetic appeal. Most new installations include a two-year warranty period in which the contractor inspects the roof and makes repairs at no charge. After the warranty ends, you’re responsible for any expenses related to repairs. Set up a contract with a roof inspector to ensure any damage can be promptly repaired.

Post-Warranty Period

The estimated lifespan of a commercial roof is around fifteen years, but you can extend the period by maintaining inspections and repairs. Industry experts recommend yearly inspections to catch minor issues before they turn into expensive problems. For instance, a section of the roof damaged by a fierce storm may not be visible from the ground level. Frequent maintenance minimizes the occurrence of water damage or structural deterioration. With yearly inspections, you can extend the life of the roof to thirty years or more.

Repairs and Replacements

When your roof approaches the fifteen-year mark, you should determine whether you need a complete replacement or partial repairs. If you’ve kept up with frequent inspections and repairs, you may get by with a round of repairs. The climate, occurrence of inclement weather, and the type of work performed in your facility can affect the roof’s service life. For qualified and professional commercial roof installations and repairs, contact Great Lakes Roofing today!