Properly maintaining and repairing a roof is much better than waiting for it to deteriorate and having it replaced altogether. Damage to a flat roof can come from many sources and, if not prevented, may lead to having an entire roof replaced. The presence of ponds and water on the roof after rainfall is a serious cause for concern and should be the first and easiest detail to notice.
A poor drainage system or the roof itself not being properly installed can cause the rainwater to remain on the roof which over time can greatly reduce its longevity. The presence of plant life on the roof is another cause for concern. The remaining water can create the right environment for mold, fungi and even grass to grow.
This may cause the roofing material underneath to deteriorate even more leading to leaks and more serious structural damage. The presence of water on the roof, 24 to 48 hours after rainfall, is a major sign that the flat roof is improperly installed.
Checking for any small cracks and tears in the roofing material is a next step that will help you decide whether or not the roof needs replacement. If the damage is small and secluded to a small area, a proper repair should do the trick. If it spans across the entire surface, then a commercial roofing Denver CO roof replacement would probably be in order.
Surfaces that present no visible damage should also be checked. For example, if steeping on an area gives a squishy and soft feeling, it could be an indication that moisture is present underneath the material. These are some essential details and signs to look for during the next roofing inspection that could help determine if it needs replacing.