Top 5 Causes of Commercial Roof Leaks and How to Avoid Them

A leaky commercial roof isn’t just inconvenient—it can disrupt business operations, damage valuable equipment, and even drive tenants or customers away. As a commercial roofer highly recommended by satisfied customers since 1997, Right Roofing & Siding has seen how even small issues can escalate quickly if ignored.

To help you stay ahead of costly repairs, here are the top five causes of commercial roof leaks and how to prevent them.

1. Poor Drainage or Clogged Gutters

Flat roofs are especially vulnerable to drainage issues. When water can’t flow off the roof efficiently, it starts to pool—and standing water is a leak waiting to happen.

How to avoid it:
Schedule regular roof cleanings and drain inspections. Make sure all scuppers, gutters, and downspouts are clear and functioning properly.

2. Damaged Flashing or Seals

Flashing seals vulnerable areas like HVAC curbs, skylights, and parapet walls. Over time, extreme temperatures and wind can crack or loosen these seals, letting water in.

How to avoid it:
Inspect all flashing and sealant annually and call a commercial roofer with any concerns or questions.  Promptly repair or replace deteriorating areas before water intrusion occurs.

3. Roof Membrane Punctures

Heavy foot traffic, dropped tools, and equipment installations and maintenance (especially HVAC) often lead to membrane damage. Even a small puncture can let in gallons of water over time.

How to avoid it:
Limit roof access, ensure walkways are used, and ensure HVAC doors are properly secured. Partner with a roofing company that works closely with HVAC techs to patch accidental damage quickly.

4. Aging Roof Materials

Every roof has a life span. Older roofing systems lose elasticity and become brittle, making them more prone to cracks, splits, and separation at seams.

How to avoid it:
Invest in a preventative maintenance plan and get regular inspections to track the condition of your roof. If it's nearing the end of its life, plan for a replacement before leaks occur.

5. Improper Repairs or Installations

A common cause of roof leaks is poor workmanship. DIY fixes or hiring the cheapest contractor often leads to more problems than solutions.

How to avoid it:
Work with a trusted commercial roofer who is licensed, insured, and experienced. At Right Roofing, we pride ourselves on long-term solutions—not temporary patches.

Don’t Wait for the Leak

Preventative maintenance and early detection are your best defenses against roof leaks. If you manage or own a commercial property in Johnston, IA or throughout Iowa, Right Roofing & Siding is ready to help. Our commercial division provides thorough inspections, photo reports, and actionable plans to protect your investment.

📞 Call us at the main Des Moines Metro office 515-729-0770 or Pella/Knoxville 641-451-8017 or schedule your inspection at www.rightroofing.com

Right Roofing & Siding – Highly recommended by satisfied customers since 1997.