10 Things to Look For During Commercial Roof Inspection

For building owners and facility managers in Michigan, a healthy commercial roof is crucial to both safety and the bottom line. A well-maintained roofing system prevents costly water intrusion, protects interior assets, and enhances the longevity of your commercial building. Regular, strategic roof inspections using an effective commercial roofing inspection checklist are the best defense against unexpected leaks and expensive damage.

Effective commercial roofing inspection checklists are often built to be customizable and comprehensive, allowing Michigan businesses to adapt them to their specific needs.

Why You Need Regular Commercial Roof Inspections?

A thorough inspection process is critical, especially for industrial roofs, flat roofs, and even sloped roofs (including metal roofs and asphalt-based systems), which are common in Michigan. Routine roof inspections help detect potential issues that, if left unchanged, could lead to structural damage or the need for premature roof replacement. A reliable commercial roof maintenance checklist from experts like Shain Roofing & Sheet Metal Inc helps inspectors cover every detail during these inspections.

Roof maintenance offers significant benefits:

• Prevents water damage and mold growth from standing water
• Protects the roof deck, insulation, and overall roof structure
• Maintains the integrity of roof penetrations (like roof vents, pipes, and skylights)
• Preserves warranties and reduces long-term costs
• Improves safety for building occupants and business continuity

It is essential to have your roof inspected regularly by a professional roof inspector, as they can identify damage, leaks, or tears that may not be visible to the untrained eye.

Commercial Roofing Inspection Checklist

A detailed roof inspection checklist is your essential toolkit for a methodical and thorough evaluation of commercial roofs in Michigan. Specialized checklists tailored for different roof types, such as metal roofs, address the unique inspection needs common in this region. The checklist should include a comprehensive review of the roof’s surface and all critical components.

Below are the key points your team, or a professional roof inspector, should review during every inspection walkthrough in Michigan.

1. Examine Roof Surface and Roof Field Condition

Check the roof surface for cracks, punctures, loose shingles, blisters, soft spots, or any signs of cracking, especially in areas like parapet walls, caulking, and the roof field. Look for debris accumulation, which can hide underlying damage and hinder proper drainage.

Tip: Significant wear on asphalt-based materials or missing granules signals to age. On metal roofs, rust or separation at seams is a major red flag.

2. Inspect Drainage System and Standing Water

Evaluate all gutters, downspouts, and drainage system components, identifying slow-draining lines, clogs, or ponding water, especially persistent standing water on flat roofs. This is vital for preventing structural damage. Clean debris from drains and remove obstructions to ensure proper drainage. If leaks are suspected in hard-to-see areas, such as around roof corners or parapet walls, consider conducting a flood test to detect any underlying damage.

Action: Clean debris from drains and remove obstructions. Consider a flood test if leaks are suspected in hard-to-see areas, such as around roof corners or parapet walls.

3. Look Closely at Roof Penetrations and Other Penetrations

Inspect the seals around all roof penetrations, including roof vents, pipes, skylights, HVAC mounts, and other penetrations. Ensure each one is securely sealed and check that nothing shifts or shows signs of damage.

Risk: Failures at these points are a leading cause of leaks and water stains inside the building.

4. Check Flashings, Edge Materials, and Parapet Walls

Evaluate metal flashings, copings, and edge materials around perimeters, parapet walls, and transitions, confirming that all connections are secure and seams are properly sealed. Unsecured or rusty flashing is a common source of leaks—especially on industrial roofs. It is essential to ensure these components are intact to prevent water intrusion and maintain the roof’s integrity.

Concern: Unsecured or rusty flashing is a common source of leaks—especially on industrial roofs.

5. Review Rooftop Equipment, Skylights, and Roof Vents

Confirm that mechanical units and all rooftop installations are sturdily mounted. Inspect around skylights, roof vents, and solar panels, watching for cracks, separation, or water stains. Unstable or shifted equipment can tear membranes and cause new leak points, so ensuring everything is securely in place is crucial for maintaining the roof’s integrity and preventing leaks.

Tip: Unstable or shifted equipment can tear membranes and cause new leak points.

6. Assess Roof Deck and Underlying Structure

Inspect the roof deck for soft spots, deflection, or evidence of rot, as these issues can compromise the structural integrity of your roof. If accessible, check from ground level for visible sagging, cracks, or stains that may indicate underlying damage. Keep in mind that damage or moisture in the deck may not be immediately apparent without a thorough inspection.

7. Search for Evidence of Water Intrusion and Water Stains

Look indoors for water stains on ceilings and walls below the roofline, as these are clear signs of leaks or hidden damage. Additionally, watch for peeling paint, bubbling, or musty odors, which can also indicate water intrusion and potential problems within the building structure.

8. Monitor Perimeter and Roof Corners

Inspect roof corners, wall junctions, and transition details for any signs of separation or wear. Check that the coping remains intact and shows no signs of recent movement to protect the roof’s integrity and prevent potential leaks.

9. Look for Animal or Pest Activity

Look for signs of animal or pest activity, such as nests, chewing marks, or blocked drainage system elements caused by birds, rodents, or insects. These problems can hinder effective drainage and may result in damage to the roofing system.

10. Identify Safety Hazards and Debris

It is important to remove loose objects and debris from the roof, as these can cause trips, block drainage, or become airborne during storms. Additionally, walkways and access points should be kept clear, especially for contractors and maintenance staff working on the roof.

When Should You Partner With a Professional Roof Inspector or Roofing Contractor?

Involving a professional roof inspector or roofing contractor like Shain Roofing & Sheet Metal Inc at the right time saves your building from costly repairs and ensures proper maintenance. Here are key situations when seeking expert assistance in Michigan is highly recommended:

• Extensive hidden leaks require specialized tools and knowledge to detect and repair effectively. A qualified roofing inspector can spot these problems early, helping to prevent major damage.
• Saturated insulation often goes unnoticed but can compromise your roof’s structural integrity. Licensed Michigan roofing contractors have the expertise to assess and address insulation problems properly.
• Widespread structural damage demands a thorough evaluation and precise remediation to maintain safety. Hiring a roofing contractor ensures repairs meet industry standards and local codes.
• When considering whether to pursue roof replacement or extensive repairs, a second opinion from professionals can provide valuable insight. Many offer free consultations to help building owners make informed decisions.
• Complex or multi-level buildings in Michigan pose unique challenges that require experienced specialists. Annual or post-storm inspections by trusted experts help maintain these roofs’ longevity and performance.

Protect Your Roof, Protect Your Business: Call Us Now!

Using a thorough commercial roofing inspection checklist consistently helps safeguard your property, occupants, and business from costly damage and interruptions. Addressing minor issues promptly can prevent them from escalating into major expenses.

Address leaks promptly before they escalate into costly repairs. Trust your commercial roof to the experts at Shain Roofing & Sheet Metal Inc., which proudly serves Michigan. With decades of local experience and advanced inspection techniques, we are dedicated to providing quality service that keeps your commercial roof in optimal condition throughout all seasons. We stand by honest assessments, transparent recommendations, and durable workmanship designed to withstand Michigan’s unique climate challenges.

Contact us today for a complimentary consultation or to schedule your next commercial roof inspection. Protect your property, safeguard your business, and experience peace of mind with our professional roofing services!