[{"@context":"https:\/\/schema.org\/","@type":"BlogPosting","@id":"https:\/\/www.mcdonaldwetle.com\/blog\/signs-mold-growing-commercial-roof#BlogPosting","mainEntityOfPage":"https:\/\/www.mcdonaldwetle.com\/blog\/signs-mold-growing-commercial-roof","headline":"Signs of Mold Growing in a Commercial Roof","name":"Signs of Mold Growing in a Commercial Roof","description":"Portland, OR & The Pacific NW property owners must watch out for mold on commercial roofs, which can cause damage and safety issues. For more, visit McDonald & Wetle.","datePublished":"2021-01-15","dateModified":"2026-01-30","author":{"@type":"Person","@id":"https:\/\/www.mcdonaldwetle.com\/author\/mcdonaldandwetle\/#Person","name":"McDonald & Wetle","url":"https:\/\/www.mcdonaldwetle.com\/author\/mcdonaldandwetle\/","image":{"@type":"ImageObject","@id":"https:\/\/secure.gravatar.com\/avatar\/99051564b38eabb45182d683017f0df9?s=96&d=mm&r=g","url":"https:\/\/secure.gravatar.com\/avatar\/99051564b38eabb45182d683017f0df9?s=96&d=mm&r=g","height":96,"width":96}},"publisher":{"@type":"Organization","name":"Mcdonald & Weltle Inc","logo":{"@type":"ImageObject","@id":"http:\/\/www.mcdonaldwetle.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/590\/2017\/05\/Layer-12.png","url":"http:\/\/www.mcdonaldwetle.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/590\/2017\/05\/Layer-12.png","width":390,"height":79}},"image":{"@type":"ImageObject","@id":"https:\/\/www.mcdonaldwetle.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/590\/2021\/02\/Mold-On-Flat-Commercial-Roof.jpg","url":"https:\/\/www.mcdonaldwetle.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/590\/2021\/02\/Mold-On-Flat-Commercial-Roof.jpg","height":675,"width":900},"url":"https:\/\/www.mcdonaldwetle.com\/blog\/signs-mold-growing-commercial-roof","about":["Blog"],"wordCount":605,"articleBody":"You might worry about wind and the elements damaging your roof, but there\u2019s another natural enemy every commercial property owner should be aware of: mold. Because it can appear overnight and spread just as quickly, you must act immediately if mold is detected. To help protect your property, McDonald & Wetle explains common signs of mold on commercial roofs, as well as how to eliminate and prevent it.How to Identify MoldA type of fungus, mold can grow just about anywhere it finds the right conditions. With a surface to feed on, the right temperature, and enough moisture, mold spores will quickly spread. That means a small patch of mold could explode into a much larger problem within days.Mold is usually easy to identify by its patchy, fuzzy appearance. It comes in many colors, most commonly green, gray, brown, or black. However, there are reasons to suspect mold even when you can\u2019t see it. These include:An unpleasant, musty smellWater stains and discoloration on ceilingsCrumbling drywall or plasterPeeling paintDrafts can also indicate the presence of mold. Any space that allows air inside can provide access for water, fueling mold growth before you notice other indicators.In some cases, what you assume to be mold could be algae. This dark-colored slime is unattractive, but will not cause damage as mold does. Still, you\u2019ll want to remove it anyway, as it can create a slipping hazard on flat roofs and diminishes your property\u2019s appearance.How to Remove Mold on Commercial RoofsIf you notice signs of mold, don\u2019t wait to act. Even a small amount can eventually lead to rot and move indoors via HVAC ductwork. Once it does, spores can grow on wood, upholstered surfaces, and carpets, and building occupants can face health risks ranging from mild irritation to dangerous allergic reactions.Fortunately, removing mold doesn\u2019t have to be difficult. An experienced contractor can clean your roof using chemicals that are safe for roofing materials but strong enough to kill spores. They will remove debris, standing water, and any existing mold and provide additional treatments if needed to prevent its return. At the same time, repairing leaks will help keep water out of the roof\u2019s materials and prevent future infestations that might be difficult to spot.Preventing Mold on Commercial RoofsThe best way to prevent mold damage is to stop its growth in the first place. That\u2019s why it\u2019s so important to partner with a roofing contractor who understands the unique demands of flat commercial roofs. At McDonald & Wetle, we help clients avoid mold growth in several ways, including:Waterproofing. With the installation of a waterproof membrane, your roof achieves an added layer of defense against moisture.Upgrade drainage. Standing water accumulates easily on many commercial roofs. With proper drainage, water runs off the roof and starves mold of the moisture it requires to grow.Proper maintenance. Consistent inspections can identify mold early and ensure repairs are completed before leaks form. Keeping the roof free from debris minimizes the presence of organic material, while regularly cleaning drains reduces the risk of clogs and pooling water. Periodic deep cleaning can also thwart mold before it spreads.Eliminate Mold on Commercial RoofsThe Pacific Northwest climate creates optimal conditions for mold, and Portland, OR metro area property owners should check their roofs regularly to help prevent its growth. If you\u2019ve noticed signs of mold, contact McDonald & Wetle today. We\u2019ll perform a deep cleaning, update drainage, and help ensure your roof remains in good condition for years to come."},{"@context":"https:\/\/schema.org\/","@type":"BreadcrumbList","itemListElement":[{"@type":"ListItem","position":1,"name":"Blog","item":"https:\/\/www.mcdonaldwetle.com\/blog\/#breadcrumbitem"},{"@type":"ListItem","position":2,"name":"Signs of Mold Growing in a Commercial Roof","item":"https:\/\/www.mcdonaldwetle.com\/blog\/signs-mold-growing-commercial-roof#breadcrumbitem"}]}]