A roof plays a vital role in protecting any commercial structure. It is important to undertake scheduled commercial roof maintenance to prevent any potential problems that can cause damage to your commercial building. Identifying and repairing possible issues when they are still minor can prevent expensive repairs and prolong the lifespan of your commercial roof. Here are some super simple commercial roofing maintenance tips for you:
Keep the roof clear
The simplest thing you can do for your roof is to keep it clear. Flat commercial roofs are particularly prone to accumulating dirt and debris. If ignored for too long, debris such as leaves and twigs can pile up and trap moisture. This can promote mold growth, which in turn, can weaken your roof’s structure. Debris can also become home to pests that can cause serious damage to the roof. So, it is important to clear your roof at regular intervals.
Unclog gutters and drains at regular intervals
The gutters and drains can do their job of draining water properly only if they are free from blockages. Moreover, when debris gets accumulated inside the gutters, it can harbor pests that can cause damage to the roof. Blockages can also cause water to overflow from the gutters and run down the side of the commercial building, leaving ugly marks and also damaging the siding. Over time, stagnant water inside the drains and gutters can weaken them.
Prepare for seasonal changes
It is extremely important to prepare your roof for the changing seasons as it can eliminate the need for repairs in the future. Most of the problems occur because the roof is neglected and not prepared for the impending harsh weather conditions. Before the onset of harsh winter, you should clear the roof and if required, cover the vulnerable areas to prevent water accumulation on the roof materials.
Limit the load
Although your commercial roof is designed to be sturdy, it has its limitations. Reduce the load on your roof to keep it in good shape. Keep people off the roof unless absolutely necessary, and limit how much you walk on it to reduce the weight it must support.
Ensure your roof’s equipment works properly
If any of the roof-mounted equipment is faulty, it can cause damage to your roof. For example, leaky air conditioning or open vents can compromise the integrity of your roof. To protect your roof, you should ensure that all the equipment is in perfect working order.
Go for a professional roof inspection
This is an important step that many building owners overlook. They don’t think of roof inspections or maintenance unless there is a problem. You should have a professional roofing contractor inspect your roof at least once a year or more frequently depending on the condition of your roof and the weather conditions in your area. They will look for weak points, drooping, sagging, cracks, or leaks.
They will also look for potential problems around vulnerable areas such as the joints, vents, and skylights. A roof inspection is also important after extreme weather events such as strong winds, blizzards, and hail. These weather events can cause serious damage to the roof, which you may not even notice until it turns into something severe.
Have a maintenance schedule for your commercial roof
It is important never to ignore any roof problems however small they may seem. A regular roof inspection can uncover any underlying issues that require attention. You should adhere to a maintenance schedule for your commercial roof. This will significantly extend the life of your roofing system.
