When Should You Have a Commercial Roof Replaced Instead of Repaired in Atlanta?
Stephen Griswell • April 18, 2022

As a business owner or property manager, you know the presence of a sturdy roof ensures your building is protected from the outside elements and property damage claims. A roof that’s damaged beyond repair can be a risk for your employees and customers and be the cause of financial losses.
There are several things you can do to keep your roof in good condition. Routine maintenance, such as general repairs, debris removal or gutter cleaning, can help keep your roof in top-notch shape for multiple decades.
But even the most durable and well-maintained roof will need to be replaced once it reaches the end of its lifespan. Scheduling regular roofing inspections with roofing professionals as well as doing your own periodic inspections will help you recognize when it’s time to replace your commercial roof.
How to Know You Need a New Commercial Roof
There are several tell-tale signs your existing commercial roof is past its prime and needs replacement.
The Roof Is Old
A properly maintained commercial roof can last for decades. However, things like weather, building ventilation, roofing material and slope can significantly affect your roof’s lifespan. If you’ve purchased your property from someone else, you may not know how well they maintained the roof or if it endured any extreme weather events. If your commercial roof is many years old with an unknown maintenance or repair history, your best bet may be to invest in a brand-new roofing system.
Significant Damages to Roofing Membrane
A roofing membrane consists of large sheets of thin material which provide a barrier to weather elements and protect your roof from water leaks. Heavy precipitation and high winds can cause severe damage to your roof’s membrane. Sometimes the damage is minor and can be remedied with repairs. However, if the damage is severe, you’ll need to have your entire roof replaced.
Blistering
Blistering happens when moisture gets trapped between the roof’s underlayment and the membrane. You should never ignore even the slightest blisters of bubbles on the surface of your roof. If left untreated, blistering can accelerate your roof’s aging and lead to irreversible structural damage.
Water Leaks
Water penetration can damage your roof’s structure beyond repair. Telltale signs of a leaking roof include mold, water stains on the ceiling or interior walls and bad odors. Your roofing contractor can determine the extent of damages and whether you should get a new roof.
Poor Insulation
Are your energy bills uncharacteristically high even though your AC is working correctly? This may be a sign your roof is not providing sufficient insulation for your building. If your commercial roof isn’t energy efficient and your electric bills continue to rise, it may be time for a new roof.
Frequent and Costly Repairs
If frequent and costly roof repairs are draining your wallet, perhaps it’ll cost you less to install a brand-new roof. Keep in mind, the overall condition of your roof will not improve with age, no matter how many repairs you have performed. It may be time to cut your losses and replace your commercial roof with a new one.
When Is the Best Time of the Year to Replace a Commercial Roof in Georgia?
Once you determine it’s time for a commercial roof replacement, you may wonder if there is a best time of year to move forward with the new installation. Unless it’s an emergency, fall is typically the best time to have a new commercial roof installed. This is because fall in Georgia is typically sunny and cool with sparse precipitation. You likely won’t have to worry about exposing your property to the elements or running your AC at full blast.
Are You Ready for a New Commercial Roof for Your Atlanta Property?
Installing a commercial roof is a major undertaking. You want to make sure your roof is professionally installed and will serve you and your enterprise for several years to come.
At Total Roof Solutions, we offer top-quality commercial roofing systems. Our experienced roofing specialists will take on even the most unique and challenging projects.
To schedule your free roofing estimate or inspection, call (678) 752-8668. Can’t afford to pay upfront? We offer a variety of special offers and financing options.












