Proactive Roof Maintenance-Tips to Extend the Life of Your Commercial Roof

With the roof being one of the most important investments you can make in your commercial property, it is well worth the relatively minimal time and expense it takes to extend its life. To save your business from spending a large sum of money on roof repairs, keep an eye on your roof throughout the year. If you can catch a potential issue and fix it before it worsens, you may save your business thousands of dollars.

Here are some proactive measures you can take to get the maximum performance out of your roof.

Keep An Eye Open for Drainage Issues

Most commercial roofs are flat, making them susceptible to damage caused by standing water. Be aware of the signs of drainage issues so you can act immediately to prevent serious damage: 

• Water leaks
• Water puddles or pooling
• Mold growth
• Wood or other material warping

Prepare for Winter

Rough winters are a reality in the Midwest, but they don’t have to cut your roof’s life short.  In the fall, well before the first freezing temperatures and snow, check for the following:

• Loose metal flashing: Metal pieces unsecured to the roof allow water and ice to work their way underneath, potentially causing leaks.
• Loose gutters: Unsecured gutters may not be able to support the weight of the melting snow, causing them to rip off the side of your building. 
• Debris: Make sure your roof is free of leaves and other debris that accumulate throughout the year, potentially blocking water and melting snow. 
• Snow removal: Have a plan in place well before the first snowfall to prevent buildup of ice. 

Be Mindful of Visitors

Contractors and other workers who access the roof can accidentally do damage, especially if they do not have experience dealing with commercial roofs. Dynamic damage occurs when a worker does direct damage to the roof by something such as accidentally dropping a tool that punctures the roof or spilling a hazardous chemical. Static damage occurs when the roof experiences excessive pressure that begins to weaken it, such as a group of contractors putting weight on the roof. Keep records of who goes up and when, and keep your eyes open for damage.

Conduct Regular Roof Inspections 

You can fix many problems before they seriously damage the entire roof if you catch them in time. Inspect your roof at least twice a year, unless a storm, work crews, or other issue may put your roof at risk. 

Though a knowledgeable business or property owner can conduct an inspection, it is always a good idea to hire a commercial roofing specialist or contractor. An experienced contractor will be able to spot potential issues and repair them accordingly. Additionally, inspecting roofs can be extremely dangerous, and trained contractors know how to navigate a roof safely.

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