Managing a commercial property comes with a long list of responsibilities—and roofing can easily fall to the bottom of that list until something goes wrong. But your roof is one of the most critical components of any building, protecting everything beneath it and impacting your facility’s energy efficiency, safety, and daily operations.
To help you navigate the world of commercial roofing more confidently, we’ve compiled answers to some of the most common questions building owners, facility managers, and board members ask. Whether you oversee a school, church, warehouse, or office complex, this FAQ will give you a clearer understanding of your roof and what to do when problems arise.
Common Commercial Roofing Questions
Q: How do I know if my roof is bad?
Signs that your commercial roof may be failing include visible damage like cracks, bubbling, or blistering on the surface, sagging areas, frequent leaks, or rising utility bills due to lost energy efficiency. If your building has experienced storm damage or your roof is reaching the end of its expected lifespan, it’s a good time to schedule a professional inspection. Preventive maintenance and early identification of issues can save thousands in costly emergency repairs.
Q: What is roof flashing?
Flashing is a thin layer of metal—often aluminum or galvanized steel—installed at joints, seams, and edges of your roof. It’s designed to prevent water from seeping into vulnerable areas such as around HVAC units, skylights, or where the roof meets vertical walls. Damaged or improperly installed flashing is one of the most common sources of commercial roof leaks.
Q: How much does a new roof cost?
The cost of a new commercial roof varies based on size, slope, access, and roofing material. Metal systems, TPO, modified bitumen, and other commercial-grade materials all have different price points. Keep in mind that your roof is a long-term investment—new roofing systems often lead to better energy efficiency and fewer disruptions to your operations over time.
Q: What are some trusted roofing material brands?
At Next Phase Roofing, we only use trusted, industry-leading manufacturers known for durability and performance. These include McElroy Metal, Mueller, Berridge, Sheffield Metals, GAF, DaVinci Roofscapes, and Ludowici. From premium standing seam metal to synthetic slate, these brands offer solutions for everything from schools and churches to warehouses and commercial campuses.
Q: Why is my roof leaking?
Leaks can happen for several reasons: aging materials, poor installation, storm damage, clogged drainage systems, or failed flashing. Flat roofs in particular are susceptible to pooling water and clogged drains, which can accelerate wear. The best course of action is a thorough inspection to pinpoint the source and recommend whether a repair or full replacement is needed.
Q: Should trees touch my roof?
No. Overhanging limbs can scrape your roofing membrane or shingles, especially during storms or high winds. Accumulated leaves and debris can also clog your gutters and cause water to back up into your roof system. It’s best practice to keep all trees trimmed several feet away from your roofline.
Q: What is a ridge cap?
On sloped commercial roofs—such as those found on churches or schools—a ridge cap is a row of specially cut shingles or metal trim that covers the peak where two slopes meet. It plays a vital role in sealing out moisture while allowing for proper ventilation at the highest point of the roof. On flat roofs, ridge caps are not applicable, but similar waterproofing features are used along seams and transitions.
Q: What do I do if my roof was installed incorrectly?
Poor workmanship can result in major issues like premature leaks, structural deterioration, or safety hazards. If you suspect your roof was installed improperly, look for uneven surfaces, gaps in seams or flashing, pooling water, or areas where materials appear to be lifting. Our team can perform a comprehensive inspection to assess the installation and provide recommendations for correction or replacement.
Q: How do I stop a roof leak?
The most effective way to stop a roof leak is by identifying and addressing the root cause—not just patching the symptom. This might involve resealing flashing, replacing deteriorated membranes, or unclogging drainage systems. Until you can schedule a professional inspection, use buckets or tarps to minimize interior damage, and contact a qualified commercial roofing contractor as soon as possible.
Q: How long does it take to install a new roof?
Installation timelines depend on roof size, material type, weather, and project complexity. Some smaller projects may take only a few days, while larger or more technical commercial installations—like standing seam metal or multi-building campuses—may take several weeks. Our team works efficiently to minimize disruption to your operations and communicates clearly throughout the entire process.
Key Takeaways
Your commercial roof plays a critical role in your building’s overall performance and protection. Whether you’re dealing with leaks, planning for a replacement, or just looking to extend your roof’s life, having a reliable roofing partner makes all the difference.
Next Phase Roofing specializes in roof inspections, repairs, full replacements, and storm damage assessments for schools, churches, industrial facilities, and commercial buildings across multiple states. Our experienced, certified team delivers turnkey service and lasting results. Contact us today to schedule your inspection or call us at 405-500-7663.
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