Commercial roofs are typically warrantied for 10-30 years, depending on materials, but may only last 15–20 years in practice. Over time, UV rays, weather, debris, traffic, shifting buildings, and more slowly damage roof components like membranes, flashings, seals, and coatings. Plus, buildings settle and move over time. Such movement can strain the roofing materials, causing cracks or gaps where water might enter. Monitoring structural movement and ensuring the roofing system’s flexibility to adapt can prevent serious damage.
Commercial property managers should be proactive about roof maintenance, inspections, and planning for replacement based on a roof’s age and expected service life. While quality materials and installation may enable a roof to outlast its warranty, problems inevitably begin mounting with advanced age. Tiny fractures expand into cracks, seals dry out and split, flashings work loose, and coatings wear off. Once leakage occurs, interior water damage is likely.