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Writer's pictureTony Biggar

What are the Most Subtle Signs of a Leak in a Commercial Roof?

Updated: Oct 6


Some signs of a leak are obvious, like water dripping from the ceiling, others can be much more subtle. In this article, we'll explore the less obvious indicators that your commercial roof might be leaking, and how drone technology is revolutionizing the way we detect these problems early on.


Table of Contents


Unexplained Odors

One of the most subtle signs of a commercial roof leak is an unexplained musty odor. This smell can be so faint that it's easily overlooked or attributed to other causes. However, it's often one of the earliest indicators of moisture infiltration.


"A musty smell in your commercial building shouldn't be ignored. It's often the first warning sign of a hidden roof leak that could lead to more significant problems if left unchecked."

If you notice a persistent, musty odor in your building, especially after rain, it's worth investigating further. Our drone inspections can help pinpoint potential leak sources that might be causing these odors.


Slight Discoloration on Walls or Ceilings

Before water stains become obvious, you might notice very slight discoloration on walls or ceilings. These can be so subtle that they're easily missed during a casual glance. Look for areas that appear slightly darker or have a different sheen compared to surrounding surfaces.


In Sioux Falls, where we experience significant temperature fluctuations, these discolorations can sometimes be mistaken for normal wear and tear. However, they often indicate the early stages of water infiltration.



sioux falls roof


Unexpected Energy Bill Increases

A less obvious sign of a roof leak is a gradual increase in your energy bills. When water penetrates your roof's insulation, it can compromise its effectiveness, making your HVAC system work harder to maintain the desired temperature.


"Many building owners in Sioux Falls are surprised to learn that an unexplained rise in energy costs can be linked to a subtle roof leak. It's a connection that's often overlooked but can have significant financial implications."

If you've noticed your energy bills creeping up without an apparent reason, it might be time for a thorough roof inspection.


Minor Peeling or Bubbling of Paint

Small areas of peeling or bubbling paint, especially near the top of walls or on ceilings, can indicate moisture intrusion. These signs are often so minor that they're easily dismissed as normal wear and tear.


In Sioux Falls' climate, where we experience both harsh winters and hot summers, it's easy to attribute these issues to temperature fluctuations. However, they could be early warning signs of a roof leak.


Subtle Changes in Indoor Air Quality

A slight increase in humidity or a feeling of "stuffiness" in certain areas of your building could indicate a small roof leak. These changes in air quality can be so gradual that they're often not noticed until the problem has become more severe.


Our drone inspections can help identify potential leak sources that might be contributing to these subtle air quality changes, allowing for early intervention.



commercial roof HVAC


Small Patches of Mold or Mildew

Tiny patches of mold or mildew, especially in corners or along the edges of ceilings, can be early indicators of a roof leak. These patches might be so small that they're easily overlooked during routine cleaning.


"In Sioux Falls, where humidity levels can fluctuate significantly, small mold patches are sometimes dismissed as a result of poor ventilation. However, they're often the first visible sign of a hidden roof leak."

Regular drone inspections can help identify potential leak sources before mold becomes a visible problem inside your building.


Barely Noticeable Ceiling Tile Deformation

In buildings with drop ceilings, very slight deformation of ceiling tiles can indicate water accumulation above. This might appear as a barely noticeable sag or a slight change in texture.


These subtle changes are often missed during casual observations but can be early warning signs of a developing leak.


Faint Water Stains on Exterior Walls

Sometimes, a roof leak can manifest as faint water stains on the exterior of your building. These stains might be so light that they're only visible under certain lighting conditions or after rain.


Our drone inspections can capture high-resolution images of your building's exterior, making it easier to spot these subtle signs of water infiltration.


How Drone Inspections Help Detect Subtle Leaks

Drone technology has revolutionized the way we conduct roof inspections, especially when it comes to detecting subtle signs of leaks. Here's how:


1. High-Resolution Imagery: Drones equipped with high-resolution cameras can capture detailed images of your roof, allowing us to spot even the smallest irregularities.


2. Thermal Imaging: Some of our drones are equipped with thermal cameras, which can detect temperature differences that might indicate water infiltration or insulation issues.


3. Comprehensive Coverage: Drones can easily access and document all areas of your roof, including spots that might be difficult or dangerous to reach on foot.


4. Efficient Inspections: We can inspect large roof areas quickly, allowing for more frequent inspections without disrupting your business operations.


"Drone technology allows us to detect subtle signs of roof leaks that might be missed during traditional inspections. This early detection can save Sioux Falls businesses thousands in potential repair costs."


sioux falls drone inspection


The Importance of Early Detection

Detecting roof leaks early is crucial for several reasons:


1. Cost Savings: Addressing small leaks is much less expensive than dealing with widespread water damage.


2. Prevent Structural Damage: Early intervention can prevent water from compromising your building's structural integrity.


3. Maintain Energy Efficiency: Fixing leaks promptly helps maintain your roof's insulation properties, keeping energy costs in check.


4. Avoid Business Disruptions: Addressing leaks early means less downtime for your business during repairs.


Being aware of these subtle signs of commercial roof leaks can save you significant time, money, and headaches in the long run. Regular drone inspections by experienced professionals can help catch these issues early, ensuring your Sioux Falls business stays protected from the elements.


Don't wait for obvious signs of water damage to appear. Schedule a drone inspection today and take a proactive approach to maintaining your commercial roof. Your building—and your bottom line—will thank you.


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