Let’s get real for a second, when’s the last time you thought about your roof? (If you’re like most people, it’s been a while.) We get it. Roofs aren’t exactly exciting… until something goes wrong. Then they’re very exciting, in the worst way.

At ARS Roofing & Gutters, we’ve been helping businesses across the North Bay for decades, and if there’s one thing we know, it’s that catching roof issues early can save you a whole lot of money and headaches. So today, we’re sharing the biggest commercial roof problems you need to keep an eye on, especially if you’re dealing with roofing Marin County properties.

Let’s dive in and keep that roof happy and healthy!

Leaks: The Silent Trouble-Maker

Leaks are sneaky. They don’t just flood your office one day out of nowhere, they start small. A drip here, a water stain there. Before you know it, you’ve got mold, soggy insulation, and a bill you didn’t budget for.

Things to watch for:

Quick tip: Don’t wait until the rainy season. Get those inspections on the calendar now!

Standing Water (AKA, Your Roof’s Worst Enemy)

Flat roofs love to hold onto water. And that’s bad news. Ponding water can stress your roof’s structure, lead to leaks, and cut the roof’s life way short.

Why it happens:

  • Blocked drains or scuppers
  • Poor building design
  • Building settling over time

If you notice puddles hanging around after it rains, call in the pros. A solid drainage fix could save your roof’s life.

Foot Traffic Damage

We’re talking about HVAC techs, maintenance workers, even you checking things out. Walking on your roof can cause punctures, tears, and damage you can’t always see.

How to fix it:

  • Set up designated walkways
  • Install roof mats
  • Make sure rooftop equipment is properly installed and sealed

At ARS Roofing, we see this a lot when doing inspections for roofing Marin County businesses. A few simple changes can make a big difference.

Botched Installations

It doesn’t matter if you’ve got the world’s best materials, if the installation was rushed or done poorly, problems are right around the corner.

Signs of a bad install:

  • Wrinkles or bubbles in the membrane
  • Loose flashing around vents and skylights
  • Noticeable seams or gaps

This is why working with an experienced, bonded, and insured team (like ARS Roofing 😉) matters so much. We don’t just put on roofs, we protect your investment.

Flashing Failures

Flashing is your roof’s defense around edges, pipes, and vents. When it’s installed wrong, or just wears out, water finds its way in fast.

Common flashing issues:

  • Rusty or corroded metal
  • Cracks or gaps
  • Flashing that’s popped loose

We’re big fans of giving flashing extra attention during our maintenance checkups here in Marin County, and you should be too.

Shrinking, Blistering, and Other Aging Drama

Some roofing materials, like EPDM rubber, tend to shrink as they age. That shrinkage pulls at seams, creates cracks, and invites all kinds of trouble. Blistering, those weird bubbles under the surface, usually means trapped moisture or bad adhesion.

Blame it on:

  • Old age
  • Crazy weather swings
  • Poor ventilation

Pro move: Set up yearly inspections to catch small problems before they turn into big ones.

Skipping Regular Maintenance

Look, we’re all busy. But ignoring your roof is like ignoring a weird noise under your car’s hood. It’s not going to fix itself.

Good maintenance plans include:

  • Two inspections a year
  • Cleaning out gutters and drains
  • Fixing little things before they turn into big, expensive things
  • Keeping a paper trail for warranty purposes

At ARS Roofing, we set up custom maintenance plans that fit your building and your budget, especially for folks looking for roofing Marin County experts they can trust.

Let’s Keep Your Roof in Top Shape!

At the end of the day, your commercial roof is protecting your business, your tenants, and your bottom line. It’s a big deal! And at ARS Roofing & Gutters, based right here in the heart of the North Bay, we’re proud to help you stay ahead of the curve.

We’re a local, family-style team with decades of hands-on experience, and we back up everything we do with craftsmanship, heart, and a real commitment to doing right by our community. Whether you need an inspection, a quick repair, or a full new roof, we’ve got your back.

Need a hand? Don’t wait. Give us a call today at (415) 459-7200 or contact us online!