Common Commercial Roofing Problems in the Midwest & How to Fix Them
For commercial property owners and facility managers across the Midwest, your roof is one of your building’s most valuable investments. But with Cedar Rapids, Davenport And Clinton experiencing extreme seasonal weather, your commercial roof faces constant challenges that can impact its longevity and performance.
The good news? With the right approach and the expertise of commercial roofing contractors in the Midwest, you can extend your roof’s lifespan by 25% or more, potentially saving hundreds of thousands in premature replacement costs.
In this blog, we’ll explore how proper maintenance, smart roofing choices, and expert solutions can help you maximize your investment and keep your commercial property protected for years to come.
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Years Of Experience
Ice Dam Formation
The Problem: During Midwest winters, heat escaping from poorly insulated roofs melts snow, which then refreezes at roof edges, creating ice dams. These dams prevent proper drainage and force water under roofing materials, leading to leaks and structural damage.
The Solution:
- Improve attic/roof deck insulation to maintain consistent surface temperatures
- Install proper ventilation systems to prevent heat buildup
- Add heat trace systems along roof edges and in gutters
- Clear snow accumulation promptly, especially after heavy snowfalls
- Consider installing ice and water shield membranes during your next re-roofing project
Professional Fix: A commercial roofing contractor Midwest can perform infrared scans to identify heat loss areas and implement targeted insulation improvements.
This combination creates wear patterns unique to our region that require specialized preventative measures to combat effectively.
Membrane Punctures and Tears
The Problem: Single-ply membranes (EPDM, TPO, PVC) commonly used on Midwest commercial buildings are vulnerable to punctures from foot traffic, falling debris, and extreme temperature fluctuations that cause material contraction and expansion.
The Solution:
- Implement controlled access protocols for roof areas
- Install walkway pads along frequently traveled paths
- Trim overhanging branches regularly
- Conduct monthly visual inspections for early puncture detection
- Schedule professional inspections after major storms or maintenance work
Professional Fix: Depending on membrane type, professional repairs may include patch applications, heat-welding, or specialized adhesive systems designed to withstand Midwest temperature extremes.
Flashing Deterioration
The Problem: Flashings, the materials used to seal roof transitions, penetrations, and terminations, often fail first in the Midwest’s harsh conditions. The freeze-thaw cycles cause expansion and contraction, breaking down sealants and creating entry points for water.
The Solution:
- Inspect all flashing points quarterly
- Replace deteriorated sealants before they fail completely
- Ensure proper installation of counter flashing on all vertical transitions
- Use high-quality, climate-appropriate sealants designed for temperature extremes
Professional Fix: Commercial roofing contractors Midwest can implement systematic flashing upgrades using metal flashing instead of membrane flashings in critical areas and applying reinforced liquid flashing systems at complex penetrations.
Poor Drainage and Standing Water
The Problem: Midwest properties experience everything from spring downpours to sudden snowmelt, making proper drainage essential. Ponding water (remaining 48+ hours after precipitation) accelerates membrane deterioration and can void manufacturer warranties.
The Solution:
- Clean internal drains, scuppers, and gutters monthly during fall
- Install drain guards to prevent clogging
- Check for and correct low spots during dry periods
- Consider adding supplementary drainage where ponding occurs
- Implement tapered insulation systems during roof replacement
Professional Fix: Specialized commercial roofing contractors Midwest can install additional roof drains in problem areas or apply tapered insulation overlays to create positive drainage without full roof replacement.
Wind Damage
The Problem: The Midwest’s open geography makes commercial buildings particularly vulnerable to high winds, which can lift membrane edges, damage flashings, and dislodge mechanical equipment.
The Solution:
- Inspect roof edges and flashings after high wind events
- Secure or remove loose objects from the roof surface
- Verify adequate perimeter attachment and ballasting
- Ensure all equipment is properly secured with appropriate curbs and tie-downs
Professional Fix: Roofing professionals can reinforce perimeter attachment systems, install supplementary membrane securement, and upgrade to wind-rated edge metal systems that meet ANSI/SPRI ES-1 standards.
Membrane Shrinkage and Seam Separation
The Problem: Extreme temperature variations cause some membrane materials to shrink over time, pulling away from walls, curbs, and other roofing components. This is particularly common with EPDM and certain TPO installations in the Midwest.
The Solution:
- Inspect seams and terminations seasonally
- Look for signs of membrane tension or “bridging” at transitions
- Monitor areas around rooftop units and penetrations
Professional Fix: Commercial roofing contractors can perform strategic membrane relaxing, install additional securement, or apply reinforced liquid membrane products at critical transition points.
Hail Damage
The Problem: Midwest hailstorms can cause punctures in membrane systems, dent metal components, and displace protective granules on modified bitumen roofing.
The Solution:
- Conduct thorough inspections after hail events
- Document damage with photos for insurance purposes
- Look beyond obvious punctures for signs of membrane compression
- Check mechanical equipment and accessories for functional damage
Professional Fix: Professional contractors can perform impact-resistance testing to assess damage extent and implement targeted repairs or consider installing protective membranes or coatings designed to resist future hail events.
Freeze-Thaw Cycle Deterioration
The Problem: The Midwest experiences numerous freeze-thaw cycles annually, causing expansion and contraction that accelerates deterioration of roofing materials, particularly at seams and transitions.
The Solution:
- Allow for proper expansion in all roofing components
- Monitor buildings with multiple roof levels where snow and ice accumulate
- Implement regular preventative maintenance specifically addressing seams and transitions
Professional Fix: Commercial roofing specialists can install reinforced liquid-applied membrane systems at critical transition points and implement specialized sealants designed to maintain flexibility through extreme temperature cycles.
UV Degradation
The Problem: Despite harsh winters, Midwest summers bring intense ultraviolet exposure that breaks down roofing materials, causing membranes to become brittle and lose elasticity.
The Solution:
- Apply appropriate coatings to extend membrane life
- Consider reflective materials during replacement to minimize heat absorption
- Implement regular membrane conditioning treatments for applicable systems
Professional Fix: Professional application of UV-resistant coatings can extend roof life by 5-10 years while improving energy efficiency during hot Midwest summers.
Improper Repairs and Modifications
The Problem: Many commercial buildings suffer from well-intentioned but improperly executed repairs or modifications by unqualified maintenance personnel or contractors unfamiliar with specific roofing systems.
The Solution:
- Maintain detailed documentation of all roof repairs and modifications
- Use only qualified contractors familiar with your specific roofing system
- Implement a permit system for all roof access and work
- Consult with roofing professionals before making penetrations or modifications
Professional Fix: Specialized commercial roofing contractors can implement proper repairs to previous improper work and provide training for maintenance staff on appropriate emergency measures.
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Preventative Approach: The Best Solution
The most effective way to address Midwest commercial roofing problems is to prevent them through strategic maintenance:
Implement a Documented Maintenance Program:
- Quarterly inspections
- Scheduled cleaning of drainage systems
- Prompt repairs of minor issues
Partner with Midwest Roofing Specialists:
- Choose Midwest local commercial roofing contractors experienced with your specific roofing system
- Look for familiarity with regional climate challenges
- Verify proper licensing and insurance
Budget for Roof Management:
- Allocate funds for regular maintenance
- Plan for periodic restorative measures
- Consider life-cycle costs rather than just immediate repair expenses
Conclusion
The challenging Midwest climate creates unique demands on commercial roofing systems, but with proper attention and care, these common problems can be minimized or prevented entirely. By understanding the specific challenges your commercial roof faces and implementing appropriate preventative measures, you can significantly extend your roof’s service life and protect your building against costly water damage.
Regular professional inspections by contractors familiar with Midwest commercial roofing systems remain the most reliable way to identify potential problems before they require expensive emergency repairs. Investing in a relationship with a qualified commercial roofing specialist provides peace of mind and significant long-term cost savings for Midwest building owners.