Commercial buildings along Santa Monica Boulevard face a unique set of roofing challenges. With constant foot traffic, busy streets, and multiple businesses relying on the same structure, even a small leak can create major problems for owners and tenants alike.
In this project spotlight, we were called to a property in the heart of West Hollywood that had been dealing with ongoing water intrusion—despite having a portion of the roof replaced not long ago. The leaks kept returning, and with several businesses below, the situation couldn’t continue.
The Problem: Persistent Leaks Despite Recent Repairs
The building owner had already invested in repairs, but the issues continued. After inspection, it became clear why previous fixes weren’t holding up.
This roof had multiple air handlers, electrical conduit, piping, and mechanical units spread across the field. Every one of these elements represents a potential entry point for water if not properly sealed.
On older or heavily patched roofs, these areas tend to be the first to fail. That’s exactly what was happening here.
Our Approach: A System Built for Long-Term Performance
To provide a permanent solution, our team installed a new modified bitumen roofing system — one of the most reliable and durable flat-roof options for commercial buildings in Southern California.
With modified bitumen, success comes down to the details. Our crew:
- Carefully removed failing materials around penetrations
- Reworked and re-sealed all mechanical curbs
- Installed proper flashing around piping and conduit
- Ensured clean, consistent laps and transitions
- Reinforced high-risk areas to handle long-term movement and weather exposure
By addressing the real source of the leaks—poor detailing around rooftop equipment—we were able to deliver a true watertight system rather than another temporary fix.
The Result: A Clean, Durable, Watertight Roof System
Upon completion, the building received a roof that not only looked clean and consistent but now provides full protection for the businesses below. The modified bitumen system gives the owner confidence that leaks won’t continue disrupting tenants or operations.
For properties like this—multi-tenant spaces, retail centers, office buildings, and mixed-use structures—a long-lasting roof isn’t optional. It’s essential.
Why This Matters for Building Owners and Property Managers
Recurring leaks are often a sign that the underlying roof system isn’t performing, not just that a patch failed. If you manage or own a commercial property, it’s important to:
- Inspect rooftop mechanical equipment regularly
- Check for old or failing flashing
- Review previous repair areas for signs of deterioration
- Consider whether recurring leaks mean the system needs replacement, not patching
A properly installed modified bitumen roof can provide decades of reliable service, making it one of the strongest investments for buildings with heavy equipment on the roof.
Final Thoughts
This West Hollywood project shows how critical it is to take a systems-based approach to commercial roofing. The right materials matter — but the quality of the detailing and installation is what ultimately stops leaks.
If your building is experiencing repeat leaks or has a complicated rooftop full of equipment, a professionally installed modified bitumen system may be the most effective long-term solution.