They shield valuable assets, machinery, and inventory from the elements. However, like any structure, industrial roofs deteriorate over time and require replacement to maintain their integrity. In larger Industrial Estates like Hillington Industrial Estate, there are buildings ranging in age from the 1950’s onwards meaning that some industrial roofing is at the point of desperate replacement. Knowing the optimal time for this replacement is crucial to avoid costly damages and disruptions to operations.
One of the primary indicators for roof replacement is its age. Most industrial roofs have a lifespan ranging from 20 to 50 years, depending on the material used and environmental conditions. As roofs approach the end of their expected lifespan, they become more prone to leaks, structural damage, and deterioration. The varied weather in Scotland can help accelerate this deterioration. Regular inspections by industrial roofing contractors like ourselves is advised so that we can assess the condition of the roof and determine if replacement is necessary.
Visual cues such as cracks, blistering, missing shingles, or sagging areas indicate structural weaknesses in the roof. Ignoring these signs can lead to water infiltration, mould growth, and compromised structural integrity. Prompt action to replace the roof when these signs appear can prevent more extensive damage to the building and its contents.
Frequent repairs on an industrial roof might be a sign that it’s nearing the end of its serviceable life. While minor repairs are common, excessive or recurring issues may indicate underlying problems that warrant a full replacement. Continuously patching up a deteriorating roof can end up being more expensive in the long run than investing in a new, durable roof. We understand the reluctance to have to spend money on an new roof but given the repair costs over 3+ years, it can quickly become a cheaper process to simply replace the industrial roof with a new system rather than continually fork out more and more money to keep what you have going for longer.
The timing of roof replacement can also depend on seasonal factors. For instance, it’s generally advisable to schedule replacements during seasons with milder weather conditions. A challenge in Scotland given how varied the weather can be, even in July. But by attempting to replace a roof during extreme temperatures, heavy rains, or snowstorms, it can pose safety risks to our workers and affect the quality of the installation. And considering that you will be wanting this roofing installation to last you for many decades, it is worth having this scheduled at a time to guarantee the best quality roof installation. Therefore, spring and fall are often preferred seasons for roof replacement.
Coordinating roof replacement with the downtime in business operations can minimise disruptions and ensure a smoother transition. Many industrial facilities have periods of reduced activity or shutdowns for maintenance, making these windows ideal for executing large-scale projects like roof replacement. Planning ahead and scheduling replacements during these lulls can optimise efficiency and minimise productivity losses.
Determining the best time to replace an industrial roof requires careful consideration of various factors, including the roof’s age, visible signs of damage, repair history, seasonal conditions, and operational schedules. Proactive maintenance, regular inspections, and timely replacements are essential to preserving the structural integrity of industrial buildings and safeguarding their contents. By staying vigilant and addressing roof issues promptly, businesses can avoid costly damages and ensure the longevity of their facilities. But the easiest way to figure out whether you need to replace your roofing system now is by arranging a site visit so that our roofing team can inspect your existing roof and discuss your requirements for the future. We use an aerial drone to inspect the roof so that we can provide you with an accurate report on the condition of your existing roof and highlight issues that may need to be addressed.
At Pro Clad Roofing, we are dedicated industrial roofing and cladding contractors.
Our mission is to provide excellent service to our diverse customer base at affordable prices with total integrity.
We aim to build long term relationships with our customers and believe that if we do one job well that this will lead to us being asked to perform more work.
If you would like to discuss your industrial roofing needs, please contact us today. Based in Glasgow, we cover Scotland for all large scale industrial roofing services.