Commercial roofs in South Florida take a beating from hot sun, driving rain, and hurricane force winds. Although weathering is an expected cause of roof damage, there is another cause that is quite unusual: the HVAC repairman.
Why Pick on the HVAC Technician?
Especially in South Florida, your HVAC system is extremely important to your daily comfort. From a roofer’s perspective, however, it is one of the more vulnerable aspects of your roof’s integrity.
HVAC vents protrude through a roofing system. This requires specialized flashing around the seams to prevent water from finding its way into your building.
When a non-roofing contractor is called on to work on the HVAC system, it may lead to repairs that require removal of the flashing. In other words: a roofer’s worst nightmare.
How Does the Damage Occur?
There are many ways in which your HVAC repairman may inadvertently inflict damage to your roof.
Heavy equipment will often cause tears, cracks, and fractures in your commercial roofing.
Flashing could be knocked aside, bent, or removed entirely to access the HVAC equipment. Although it is an integral part of the roofing system, it is often not reinstalled properly, leaving a direct route for moisture to infiltrate your building.
If you suspect leak-causing damage, contact PSI Roofing, your South Florida roofing specialist, immediately. Putting off repairs could end up costing you more in the long run.
Signs of Damage to Your Commercial Roof
You may notice discoloration, or a water trail, on the ceiling inside your building. If you have skylights, dripping during a storm may occur, or water damage around the skylights’ framework may be visible. Also, look for:
- Unusual stains on walls or ceiling corners
- Noticeable mold or mildew odors
- Warped ceiling or floors
From the exterior, look for:
- Missing flashing
- Obvious tears or cracks in the roofing material
- Blisters, bubbles, or water trails beneath the roofing material layers
In short, the answer is: FRIEND.
Of course, we have a lot of respect for the HVAC repairmen – they keep our summer lives bearable! If, in the course of duty, they leave a trace on your roof, call in a roofing contractor for immediate help.
Contact PSI Roofing for your commercial roof repair needs today.
