When the state of your Maryland commercial roof begins needing increasingly frequent repairs, it might be time to consider a full roof replacement. How, then, can you be sure it’s time for a new roof? We will talk you through some of the tell-tale signs that you need a new commercial roofing system. Being aware of these signs and staying on top of them may save you from prematurely replacing your roof or letting problems fester until they become much more difficult to deal with. When deciding whether to repair or replace your roof, you should consider the following factors.

Age

The age of the existing roof should be the first factor you should consider. Modern roofing systems generally have a lifespan of 15-20 years, but this number can vary based on a host of different factors, such as preventative care, climate, and the type of facility you have. If the roof is relatively new and in decent shape overall but suffers some damage, a spot repair would make the most sense. If the roof is damaged, however, and it’s 20 or more years old, you will likely want to consider a full roof replacement in order to minimize the risk of a more critical issue developing later on.

Leakage

One of the more obvious signs that you need to hire a professional roofing contractor to look at your existing roofing system is leaking. If there’s a leak in an isolated area, a quick spot repair should be enough to resolve the issue. If, however, your roof has sprung multiple leaks in several places, you may have a more significant structural problem on your hands. With extensive leaking, you’re going to be better off replacing the roof rather than trying to patch each individual leak. Even if you repair each leaky area, you’re likely to have a new leak spring up in the near future, so it’s best to just spring for a new roof.

Planning for the Future

When deliberating between a commercial roof repair or a full replacement, you should consider how long you plan on remaining in your current facility. If you’re planning on selling the facility or relocating within a couple of years, you can get away with spot repairs. A new roof, on the other hand, can help with attracting prospective buyers, so you may get more for the building by replacing your older, damaged roof.

Efficiency

If your organization prioritizes energy efficient initiatives and is looking for ways to save money on utility bills, a roof replacement is a great place to start. Modern roofing systems will provide superior installation and efficiency features that will start saving you money on your utility bills right away. An energy-efficient roof replacement may also qualify you for tax credits, rebates, and other incentives that will make it easier to afford your new commercial roofing installation. Along these lines, replacing your old roof with one made of modern materials may qualify your business for insurance rate discounts as well.

If you need help deciding between repairs or replacement, the experts at DC Generals are here to assist. Whether you have a flat or sloped roof, we can work with you to develop a customized roofing solution.