If you’re a business owner managing a property with a commercial flat roof, you know that roof leaks can be a real headache. They disrupt your daily operations, damage assets, and even spoil your professional image if the problem is left unfixed. Naturally, when water starts pooling or staining your ceiling tiles, the first thought is typically that there is a problem with the roof.
But here’s the twist — not all leaks stem from the roofing system itself. One common yet often overlooked culprit? Your HVAC system. Yes, the same setup responsible for keeping your indoor environment comfortable can sometimes be the reason why water sneaks into your building.
As a trusted and experienced roofing company, we’ve seen this connection far too often. In this guide, we’ll walk you through how faulty HVAC systems can cause leaks, and how to spot the difference.
What Are The Common Causes Of Roof Leaks?
Roof leaks are often associated with the following problems:
- Damaged or aging roofing membranes: Flat roofs rely on seamless roofing membranes to keep water out. Over time, these membranes break down or tear.
- Improper flashing: Flashing seals the joints between your roof and penetrations like vents or chimneys. When it fails, water is able to get through the gaps.
- Poor drainage: Clogged drains or poorly designed slopes can leave water pooling on your roof, eventually finding a way inside.
While these are legitimate causes of leaks, they’re not the only ones. Many business owners assume that any water coming through the ceiling must be a roofing issue. However, as experts, we know better — and some leaks are more about the systems on top of your roof than the roof itself.
How Faulty HVAC Systems Cause Roof Leaks
Commercial HVAC units are often installed directly on flat roofs. While they’re essential for regulating indoor temperatures in your building, they can become a double-edged sword when maintenance is overlooked or systems malfunction. Here’s how:
Condensation Buildup
HVAC systems generate condensation as part of their cooling process. This moisture is typically directed away through drain lines, but if these lines become clogged or broken, the water has nowhere to go. It can pool around the HVAC unit, seep into roofing materials, and eventually enter your building.
The coils within the unit naturally accumulate condensation during day-to-day operations. If the condensation pan or drain system designed to handle this moisture fails because of clogs, rust, or breaks, water will pool around the unit and seep into roofing materials, making the problem worse.
Improper Sealing
When HVAC systems are installed on flat roofs, they require proper flashing and sealing around the unit. Over time, these seals can break down or crack due to weather exposure or installation errors, leaving gaps where water can infiltrate.
Mechanical Failures
Most of the HVAC systems installed on flat roofs are made of several components. Coil damage, or in some cases freezing, as we already covered, can lead to leaks. But that’s not all. Other broken components like fan belts, or loose fittings can cause water to drip where it shouldn’t. Even a small, slow drip can mimic a traditional flat roof leak over time.
Vibration Damage
HVAC systems are heavy and often vibrate during operation. This movement can create wear and tear on the roofing membrane beneath them, potentially leading to punctures or leaks that may appear as roofing problems.
Improper Installation
Inexperienced HVAC technicians or installers can significantly compromise roof integrity during system installation. Improper mounting techniques, careless foot traffic during installation, and lack of professional expertise can create critical vulnerabilities on the flat roofing system.
These installation errors can lead to subtle but persistent leaks that may not become immediately apparent, causing gradual and potentially extensive water damage.
Key Signs That Your HVAC System Might Be the Problem
Not sure whether your leak is coming from the HVAC system? Here are some telltale signs to watch for:
Localized water stains: If water damage appears on the ceiling directly beneath or near the HVAC unit, it’s a red flag that the system could be the cause.
Seasonal patterns: Air conditioners and heating systems installed on a commercial roof are usually bigger in size and run longer than the systems on regular properties. If leaks seem to occur more often during high HVAC usage (like summer or winter), it’s worth investigating the system.
Pooled water near the unit: Excess water collecting around the HVAC setup indicates drainage or sealant issues. So, if you notice water pooling around your air conditioners and the rest of your flat roof is dry, the leak is most likely due to the equipment.
Unexplained mold or mildew: Persistent dampness caused by HVAC leaks can lead to mold growth near the affected areas. This not only looks unsightly and deters the curb appeal of the property, but also causes other health problems.
Lack of rain, but many leaks: Flat roofs are prone to leaks during or immediately after heavy rain, as the water tends to pool and damage the membrane. However, if there hasn’t been any rain and a leak still appears, it is not your roof that is at fault, it’s most likely, your HVAC system.
What to Do If You Suspect an HVAC-Related Leak
If you suspect your HVAC system is behind a roof leak, follow these steps to pinpoint the issue and get it resolved:
Observe And Document
Start by paying close attention to when and where the leak occurs. Is the water damage located near an HVAC unit or ductwork? Make note of whether the leak aligns with heavy HVAC usage, such as during extreme summer cooling or winter heating. Importantly, if leaks happen when there’s no rain, this suggests the HVAC system may be to blame. Keep detailed records, including photos and timing, as these can help professionals diagnose the problem more quickly.
Also Read: Best Roof Sealants For Leak Repairs In 2024
Call Your Roofing Expert
The first step in resolving the issue is ruling out roofing-specific problems. Reach out to a professional roofing company (like us!) to conduct a thorough roof inspection. We’ll check for damage to the membrane, flashing, or other parts of the roof that could mimic HVAC-related leaks. With our expertise, you’ll know whether your roof or the HVAC unit is the cause of the problem in no time.
Hire An HVAC Technician If Needed
If our inspection identifies issues with the HVAC system, the next step is to involve a qualified HVAC professional. Common issues such as clogged drain lines, faulty seals, or installation errors will need a specialist’s attention. We maintain relationships with trusted HVAC technicians and can recommend experts who will quickly and effectively resolve the issue, ensuring your building stays leak-free.
Our role is to provide clarity, ensure all aspects of your roof are functioning properly, and guide you toward a leak-free operation so you can focus on running your business without interruptions.
Contact Oklahoma’s Most Trusted Flat Roofing Contractors!
Roof leaks can be a source of stress, but the root cause isn’t always what you expect. Faulty HVAC systems are a common, but often overlooked, culprit especially for commercial flat roofs.
If your roof shows signs of a leak, look no further than the team at A. Fricker Roofing and Waterproofing for help. As a roofing company, we’re here to provide expert guidance, pinpoint the cause of leaks, and ensure that your commercial roof is in the best condition.
Contact us today at (918) 402-7167 to learn more.
