5 Critical Warning Signs a Commercial Roof Inspection Can Reveal

Summit Roofing

If your commercial building has a flat or low-slope roof, you might not see the early signs of damage until it’s too late. From ponding water to hidden leaks, the issues that threaten your business’s roof often start small and invisible. That’s why a professional commercial roof inspection is one of the smartest investments you can make.

Here are five red flags our team at Summit Roofing knows to look for and how they can help you avoid costly commercial roof repair in Wilmington down the road.

1. Ponding Water

If water collects in low spots for more than 48 hours after rain, that’s a red flag. Ponding often signals:

Poor drainage or clogged internal drains
Low spots or subtle structural sagging
Degraded membrane material

Left alone, standing water weakens roofing systems, accelerates algae growth, and can seep into insulation. Flat roof repair becomes much more complex if the water begins compromising your building’s structure.

Want to dig deeper into the dangers of standing water? Check out this resource from PG to understand common causes and solutions for flat roofs and ponding water.

2. Flashing Failures

Roof flashing protects some of the most vulnerable parts of your roof—edges, walls, vents, and seams. Over time, flashing can:

Crack or become brittle
Pull away from surfaces
Rust or corrode, especially in salty coastal air

These small gaps quickly become water intrusion points. During a roof inspection, your roofing contractor in Wilmington will carefully examine all flashing and sealant to ensure protection is intact.

See how we repair and reinforce flashing on commercial roofs.

3. Membrane Cracking or Blistering

Flat commercial roofs made from TPO, EPDM, or modified bitumen are prone to aging signs like:

Surface cracks
Raised blisters from trapped moisture
UV-related shrinkage or brittleness

Even minor membrane breaches allow water into the roofing system, which can rot insulation or decking. Regular inspections let us repair these issues early before they spiral into full roof replacement territory.

4. Hidden Decking Deterioration

Sometimes, what’s beneath the surface tells the real story. During an inspection, we check for:

Soft areas under foot traffic
Interior signs of moisture like ceiling stains or peeling paint
Roof dips or uneven spots that could signal weakened decking

These are often early indicators of major structural risk. Don't wait until damage is visible from the inside—schedule a professional inspection now.

5. Unsealed Rooftop Penetrations

HVAC units, skylights, vent stacks, and satellite mounts—any penetration in your roof is a potential leak point. During a commercial inspection, we look for:

Shrinking or dried-out sealant
Cracked caulking around curbs
Evidence of ponding or rust at the base

Over time, these tiny vulnerabilities turn into major repair bills. Proper sealing protects insulation and helps maintain energy efficiency.

Read this rooftop penetration leak guide from Buildings.com for more information on why this really matters.

Why Business Owners Miss These Issues

You may not realize your building has roof damage until water starts leaking through the ceiling. But by then, the repairs are more urgent and more expensive.

Roof inspection services in Wilmington NC are designed to catch problems before they disrupt your operations.

What You Get With a Summit Roofing Inspection

At Summit Roofing, we deliver a full report and real solutions, not just a checklist. Each commercial roof inspection includes:

Visual review of your entire roofing system
Photos and written documentation
Drainage and slope checks
Recommendations for commercial roof repair Wilmington businesses trust

Learn more about our local roofing team.

FAQs About Commercial Roof Inspections

How often should I get a roof inspection?

Twice a year—ideally in the spring and fall—and always after major storms.

My roof looks fine, do I still need an inspection?

Yes! Many serious issues develop below the surface and show no visible signs until they’re already causing damage.

Can I use the inspection report for insurance or facilities planning?

Absolutely. We provide full photo documentation and formal recommendations that are perfect for insurance claims or budgeting.

Don’t Let Small Issues Become Big Expenses

The best time to fix a roofing problem is before it disrupts your business. With Summit Roofing, you get more than just a roof inspection, you get peace of mind from experienced pros who know Wilmington’s unique roofing needs.

Schedule your commercial roof inspection in Wilmington and let’s make sure your building is protected.