If you have a leak in your commercial roof, there is a good chance that there is a tear or hole in your roofing material. But this is not the only reason why a commercial roof may leak. Commercial roofs are a bit different than residential roofs in that most have no pitch or slope to them. This can make them more likely to develop a leak if they are not properly cared for or maintained and water sits on or near the roof. Here are two of the lesser-known reasons why your commercial roof may be leaking. 

The Flashing is Worn

If your roof appears to be in great shape with no rips, tears, or holes in it, you may have worn or damaged flashing. Many items extend out of from your commercial roof. This includes vents, pipes and gas lines. A small hole is cut into the roof to help accommodate the item that will jut out from it. But, no matter how precise the hole is cut, there is always a tiny gap between the item jutting out of your roof and the roof itself. If this gap is not properly sealed, water can leak through it and you have a roof leak. Flashing, a thin strip of sheet metal, is the most common item used to seal off the gap, but there are many other products that can be used, including sealants, rain collars, field wraps, and pipe boots. Regardless of what you have, if it is damaged, this may be the cause of your leak. 

Your Drains are Clogged

Due to the fact that flat roofs are not pitched, drains are typically installed on a commercial roof. These drains help to catch rainwater and then guide them to a downspout at the end of your roof, where the water can be discarded. This helps to prevent water from puddling or pooling on your roof. However, just like you have to clean your gutters and downspouts at home, you have to clean your drains and downspouts on a commercial building. If you fail to do so, water may sit and puddle on the roof. Eventually, it may seep through, into your commercial building, simply because it has nowhere else to go. 

If your commercial roof is leaking, you want to have it repaired as quickly as possible. The longer you wait, the more extensive the damage may become. As you look to hire a roofer, be sure to find one with commercial roofing experience. They can help determine why your roof is leaking and solve the problem so water stops seeping into your commercial building. For more information, call a company like Kramer Wm & Son Inc.