What Hidden Problems Can Show Up During a Commercial Roof Inspection?
When you’re managing or investing in a commercial property, the roof isn’t usually top of mind—until something goes wrong. You might assume that if there’s no visible leak or damage, your roof is doing just fine. But here’s the truth: many commercial roofing issues stay hidden until they become expensive problems.
At Weather Shield Roofing Systems, we’ve been helping business owners, property managers, and investors uncover these hidden roof problems for over 40 years through detailed, professional roof inspections.
If you’re wondering what’s lurking up there and what a commercial roof inspection might reveal, you’re asking the right question—and potentially saving yourself thousands in roof repairs or replacements down the road.
Why do hidden roofing problems matter if I don’t see any leaks?
It’s a fair question. If water isn’t pouring through your ceiling tiles or pooling in the break room, why worry?
Here’s why: commercial roofing problems often start silently, and by the time they show visible signs, it may be too late for a simple fix. A roof inspection catches these problems early—when they’re manageable and much more cost-efficient to address.
What types of hidden damage can a commercial roof inspection reveal?
You’d be surprised how much can go wrong under the surface. Here are some common issues we uncover during a thorough roof inspection:
1. Moisture Trapped Beneath the Roof Membrane
Even if your roof looks dry on top, water can sneak in through tiny punctures or failing seams. That water gets trapped in the insulation and slowly starts rotting materials, reducing energy efficiency, and weakening your roof’s structure.
We use infrared scanning and core sampling techniques to detect this kind of moisture damage that’s invisible to the naked eye.
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2. Hidden Punctures or Tears from Foot Traffic
Most commercial roofs aren’t just sitting there untouched. HVAC technicians, electricians, and maintenance crews often walk on the roof—and without designated walk pads, their foot traffic can lead to punctures or tears in the membrane.
These small issues might not leak right away but will eventually let water in, especially after freeze-thaw cycles or heavy rain.
3. Damaged or Improperly Installed Flashing
Flashing is the material that seals roof edges, penetrations, and transitions—think skylights, vents, HVAC units. If flashing is cracked, bent, or missing, water can easily enter at those vulnerable points. It’s one of the most common hidden problems we find during roof inspections.
4. Drainage Issues You Can’t See from the Ground
Water might not be pouring over the edge, but improper slope, clogged drains, or pooling water (known as ponding) can quietly wear down roofing materials over time. Flat commercial roofs are especially vulnerable to this.
During inspections, we check for standing water, sagging areas, and debris buildup that could signal poor drainage or structural issues.
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5. UV and Heat Damage Degrading Roofing Materials
You may not notice UV damage right away, but constant sun exposure can make your roof brittle, cause materials to crack, and shorten its overall lifespan. Inspections help spot early signs of this deterioration before it compromises the entire roof system.
6. Faulty Seams or Welds in Roofing Membranes
Seam failure is a silent killer on many membrane roofing systems like TPO, EPDM, or PVC. Whether due to age, installation error, or thermal movement, seams can pull apart and let in moisture. Inspections can catch failing seams early and prevent full-scale water damage.
7. Internal Building Clues You Might Miss
Sometimes the signs of roof damage aren’t even on the roof. During an inspection, we also check for subtle interior signs like musty odors, bubbling paint, or stained ceiling tiles—all indicators of possible roof leaks or condensation problems in the roofing system.
Could my roof have these problems even if it’s relatively new?
Unfortunately, yes. Even newer commercial roofs can develop hidden issues—especially if:
The installation wasn’t done correctly
There’s heavy foot traffic on the roof
The building is in a storm-prone area
Routine maintenance has been skipped
A roof inspection doesn’t just identify current damage—it also helps protect your roof investment by spotting conditions that could turn into bigger problems later.
How often should a commercial roof be inspected?
We recommend twice per year, typically in the spring and fall, and always after major weather events. Regular inspections are one of the best ways to extend your roof’s lifespan, reduce emergency roof repair costs, and protect your property.
At Weather Shield, we also offer our Max Life Roof Care™ program, which combines scheduled inspections, maintenance, and documentation to ensure your commercial roof performs for the long haul.
What should I expect from a professional commercial roof inspection?
A good inspection should go beyond a simple walkaround. Here’s what we include:
Visual inspection of roof surface, seams, and penetrations
Infrared moisture scans to find trapped water
Evaluation of drainage systems and roof slope
Flashing and edge detail review
Interior ceiling and wall assessment for hidden leak signs
Detailed report with photos, findings, and repair recommendations
You’ll get a full picture of your roof’s condition—so you can make informed decisions instead of reacting to surprise emergencies.
How do I know if my roof inspector is being honest?
That’s an important and understandable concern. The commercial roofing industry doesn’t always have the best reputation for transparency.
At Weather Shield, we believe in earning trust through honesty and education. We take the time to explain what we find in plain language. Our goal is to help you protect your building, not pressure you into unnecessary repairs.
We’ve built long-term partnerships with property managers and building owners because we put your priorities first—not quick sales.
When it comes to commercial roofs, what you don’t see can absolutely hurt you. Regular inspections catch small problems before they become costly ones and give you peace of mind that your investment is protected.
If you’re ready for a clear picture of your roof’s true condition—without the sales pitch—we’re here to help.
Ben Cornell
Account Executive
Ben Cornell is a lifelong West Michigan resident who began his career in commercial roofing in 2006—originally just looking for a summer job to help pay for college. What started as temporary work quickly turned into a lasting career as he steadily advanced through roles in estimating, project management, service leadership, and sales. Today, he serves as an Account Executive at Weather Shield Roofing Systems, where he continues to thrive in a company that has supported his professional growth every step of the way. Ben’s long-standing commitment to the commercial roofing industry is fueled by his passion for helping clients and the strong team culture at Weather Shield.
