When it comes to maintaining your commercial property, your roof plays a huge part in shielding your investment. Here at Best Choice Roofing, we know how South Orlando’s unique weather—scorching heat, intense rainstorms, and the occasional hurricane—can take a serious toll on commercial flat roofs. We specialize in providing top-notch roofing solutions that keep businesses covered, no matter what Mother Nature throws our way.
Flat roofs are popular for commercial buildings because they’re cost-effective and practical. However, they also come with their own set of challenges, especially in a climate like ours. If you own a commercial property in South Orlando, here are five common problem areas to keep an eye on.
1. Ponding Water – A Hidden Disaster Waiting to Happen
South Orlando sees its fair share of heavy rain, and flat roofs don’t always drain as efficiently as they should. If water pools on your roof for more than 48 hours after a storm, it can start breaking down the roofing materials, leading to leaks, structural damage, and even mold growth. Proper drainage solutions, such as tapered insulation or additional drains, can help prevent this issue before it gets out of hand.
2. Cracking and Blistering – The Florida Heat Strikes Again
With our near-constant sunshine and sweltering temperatures, it’s no surprise that flat roofs in South Orlando can develop cracks and blisters. Prolonged UV exposure weakens roofing materials, causing them to expand and contract, which will cause a lot of cracks and air pockets. Once this kind of thing starts to happen, your roof becomes vulnerable to leaks and deterioration. Professional roof inspections and care can help catch these issues early and extend the life of your roof.
3. Membrane Damage – When Your Roof’s First Line of Defense Fails
Most flat roofs rely on a protective membrane (such as TPO, EPDM, or modified bitumen) to keep water out. However, over time, these membranes can suffer punctures, tears, or seam failures, often due to foot traffic, debris, or extreme weather conditions. Even a small tear can lead to major water infiltration. If your business’s roof gets a lot of foot traffic, adding walkway pads or reinforcing high-traffic areas can help reduce the risk of membrane damage.
4. Flashing Failures – Small Gaps, Big Leaks
Flashing is the material that will help seal the edges and joints of your roof, particularly around HVAC units, vents, and skylights. Unfortunately, flashing is one of the most common weak points on a flat roof. If it becomes damaged or even just loose, water will easily seep into your building, causing costly interior damage. Frequent inspections and timely repairs can keep your flashing in great shape and prevent water intrusion.
5. Roof Shrinkage – Yes, Roofs Can Shrink!
Certain types of flat roofing materials, particularly EPDM, can shrink over time due to prolonged sun exposure and temperature fluctuations. As the material contracts, it can pull away from edges, seams, and flashing, creating gaps that allow water to enter. If you leave it unchecked, this can cause a lot of significant structural issues. Routine roof maintenance can help identify shrinkage early and prevent major repairs down the road.
Protect Your South Orlando Business—Call Best Choice Roofing Today!
If you own a commercial property in South Orlando, don’t wait until a small problem turns into an expensive nightmare. At Best Choice Roofing, we offer expert inspections, maintenance, and repairs to keep your flat roof in peak condition. Whether you need a minor fix or a full-scale roof replacement, our team has you covered. Call us today to schedule a free inspection and keep your business protected from the top down!
