Commercial Roof Inspection

Your commercial roof is one of the most critical investments your business makes—it protects your inventory, equipment, employees, and structure from Detroit’s unpredictable weather. Yet, it’s also one of the most overlooked components of a building’s maintenance plan. Regular commercial roof inspections are essential to detect problems early, extend lifespan, and prevent costly emergency repairs.

At Motor City Roofers, we’ve inspected, repaired, and maintained thousands of commercial roofs across Metro Detroit. This guide explains why roof inspections are vital, what they include, and how they protect your bottom line.

Why Regular Roof Inspections Matter
Michigan’s climate can be punishing—harsh winters, heavy snow loads, spring rainstorms, and hot summers cause repeated freeze-thaw cycles. These fluctuations put constant stress on roofing materials, seams, and drainage systems.vvWithout consistent inspection, small problems like minor punctures, loose flashing, or ponding water can quickly escalate into leaks, insulation damage, and even structural failure. A comprehensive inspection schedule ensures that you:

• Identify hidden damage before it compromises your roof system.
• Protect warranties—most manufacturers require regular inspection records.
• Reduce long-term costs by catching minor issues early.
• Extend roof life, maximizing your return on investment.
• Prevent downtime from leaks or water intrusion that could disrupt operations.

At Motor City Roofers, we recommend at least two inspections per year—once in spring (after winter’s snow and ice) and once in fall (before freezing temperatures return).

Key Components of a Commercial Roof Inspection
A professional roof inspection goes far beyond a quick glance. Our trained technicians perform a detailed assessment of all critical roof elements, documenting conditions and identifying maintenance priorities.

1. Structural Integrity and Surface Condition
We start by checking the overall surface for visible signs of wear:

• Cracks, punctures, or blisters in the membrane.
• UV damage, bubbling, or delamination.
• Signs of impact from windblown debris or equipment.
• Uneven surfaces or sagging that indicate insulation compression or moisture intrusion.

We also evaluate the deck and substrate for signs of stress or shifting that may affect the roof’s performance.

2. Flashing, Seams, and Joints
Flashing protects the areas where the roof meets vertical surfaces, curbs, or penetrations. Over time, extreme temperatures can cause flashing to separate or crack.
We carefully inspect:

• Base and counter-flashing.
• Seams along HVAC curbs, skylights, and parapet walls.
• Joint sealants and adhesives for brittleness or detachment.

Properly sealed flashing is one of the most critical barriers preventing leaks.

3. Drainage Systems and Ponding Water
Water that doesn’t drain properly can reduce roof life dramatically. During inspections, we ensure that:

• Drains, scuppers, and gutters are clear of debris.
• The roof’s slope provides proper water flow.
• No areas of standing water exceed 48 hours after rainfall.

Even shallow puddles can accelerate membrane deterioration and promote algae growth, especially on flat commercial roofs common throughout Detroit’s industrial sector.

4. Roof Penetrations and Accessories
Commercial roofs often host HVAC systems, vents, exhausts, and skylights. Each penetration poses a potential vulnerability.
We check for:

• Loose or corroded fasteners.
• Cracked seals or worn gaskets.
• Signs of rust or condensation near mechanical units.

We also assess pipe boots, supports, and walkway pads to confirm that heavy equipment isn’t stressing the membrane.

5. Insulation and Moisture Detection
Trapped moisture beneath the surface can silently destroy insulation and reduce energy efficiency.
Motor City Roofers uses infrared scanning technology to detect hidden water damage within roofing layers. Wet insulation loses its thermal resistance, forcing HVAC systems to work harder—raising utility costs and risking mold growth.  When we detect moisture, we recommend targeted repairs rather than full replacements whenever possible, helping clients save money while maintaining performance.

6. Roof Perimeter and Edge Securement
High winds are common in Detroit, especially near open lots and industrial areas. We inspect edge metals, copings, and terminations to ensure they’re properly fastened and sealed.  Loose edges can lead to uplift during windstorms, which often causes extensive damage or complete membrane detachment.

7. Safety and Code ComplianceDuring every inspection, we ensure your roof meets local building codes and OSHA safety requirements. Proper access points, guardrails, and maintenance walkways not only protect your team but also help maintain compliance with insurance and warranty standards.

What You Receive After a Motor City Roofers Inspection
After completing your inspection, we provide a comprehensive report that includes:

• High-resolution photos of every finding.
• Detailed notes on roof condition and problem areas.
• Recommendations for repairs or preventative maintenance.
• Estimated costs and timelines.
• Maintenance checklist tailored to your facility’s roofing system.

This report becomes your foundation for smart budgeting and warranty compliance—proving that you’ve actively maintained your roof.

Common Issues Found During Inspections
In Detroit’s commercial facilities, some issues appear more frequently than others:

• Membrane punctures from foot traffic or dropped tools.
• Ponding water due to clogged drains.
• Seam separation from thermal expansion and contraction.
• UV damage on older TPO and EPDM systems.
• Rust or corrosion on metal components.
• Wet insulation due to leaks or condensation.

Addressing these early prevents costly replacements and ensures your roof continues performing under tough Midwest conditions.

Benefits of Partnering with Motor City Roofers
Choosing Motor City Roofers for inspections means working with a Detroit-based team that understands local conditions, code requirements, and commercial roofing materials inside and out.

1. Expertise Across Roofing Systems
We inspect and service all major types—TPO, EPDM, PVC, modified bitumen, metal, and roof coatings. Each system requires specialized knowledge, and our technicians are trained to identify issues specific to each.

2. Preventative Maintenance Programs
We don’t just inspect—we help you build a proactive maintenance plan. With scheduled visits, small repairs, and debris removal, we extend roof life by up to 50%.

3. Insurance and Warranty Support
If storm damage or water infiltration is found, our detailed reports assist with insurance claims and warranty processing—saving time and stress.

4. Local Commitment
As a Detroit company, we take pride in serving local businesses. From small warehouses to large manufacturing plants, our focus is quality, transparency, and reliability.

Inspection Frequency and Timing
For most commercial properties:

• Twice per year – spring and fall.
• After major storms – to assess hail, wind, or ice damage.
• Before lease renewals or property sales – to document condition for valuation.

Routine inspections are not just good practice—they’re a form of insurance. Preventing one major leak can save thousands in damage and lost productivity.

Conclusion: Protecting Your Investment, One Inspection at a Time
A commercial roof inspection isn’t just about finding problems—it’s about preventing them. When you invest in regular, professional inspections, you’re protecting your property, your employees, and your business operations.

At Motor City Roofers, we take every inspection seriously. Our team delivers accurate assessments, honest recommendations, and tailored maintenance plans designed for Detroit’s challenging climate.
Don’t wait for leaks to appear—schedule your commercial roof inspection today and let Motor City Roofers help you keep your building safe, efficient, and watertight year-round.

📞 Motor City Roofers
Detroit, Michigan
Your Trusted Partner for Commercial Roof Inspection, Repair, and Maintenance