Commercial roofs should be high-performance, but they suffer from a variety of problems. To prevent minor issues from developing into major problems, regular inspections and routine commercial roof maintenance are essential.
Schedule A Roofing Inspection
Book a roofing contractor to complete an inspection that will find any hidden problems. This inspection should cover decking, surface membranes, roof vents, flashing, field tears, gutters, and drainage pipes. If you’re carrying out your own inspection, make sure to check the condition of your roof at the start of the spring season, when any damage that was done in winter will be evident and can be repaired before difficult summer conditions.
Clear The Debris
Debris will stop water from draining off the roof. Branches, leaves, litter, and other debris that get trapped in drains cause the most problems.
Check For Water on Roof
Water that ponds on a commercial roof can cause a lot of damage. The water will corrode the structure of the roof, weakening it and causing mold to grow. When you inspect the roof, check for color changes or stains, which suggest that water has ponded there. Test for slow-draining lines and any blockages. When you find areas that are prone to standing water, the next step is to check for any underlying damage.
Check The Flashing
Roof flashing is the thin metallic material that surrounds roof features, like vents, or skylights. Flashing routes water away from parts of the roof where it could do damage, such as where the roof plane meets walls or dormers.
Flashing can wear down, which results in cracks and gaps where the water can get into the roof deck. Cracks are most common in transition points, where the flashing changes from flat to vertical. These areas are under more stress and will fail after a few years of bad weather.
Examine Gutters And Drains
Drain clogged caused a roof collapse
Debris growing in the gutter
Drains are the lowest point on the roof and if clogged, can cause a serious pool, which can lead to deterioration of the roof membrane or worse, complete structural failure.
Owners of commercial buildings that have other kinds of roofs will need to pay particular attention to the gutter and drain clogging. Many kinds of roofs, such as asphalt, can’t handle ponding water and can lead to premature failure. Inspect your gutters and drains for cracks in the roof material and remove any debris to prevent ponding from destroying your roof.
Your commercial roof maintenance plays a major part in keeping your business running as smoothly as possible. When the roof is compromised, your business can lose time, money, and productivity. If you schedule regular roof inspections, you can protect your investment in your commercial building and your business. Use this roof inspection “checklist” to make sure your company can keep running uninterrupted. If you notice any sign of leaks, clogging, or other signs of damage to your roof, contact a roofing professional as soon as possible.
Get in Touch Today to Talk About Any Commercial Roof Needs
If you need any commercial roof maintenance or an inspection, get in touch with GreatWay Roofing today and we’ll be happy to assist. Greatway Roofing has over 20 years of experience as the leading Santa Clarita Valley, San Fernando Valley, and Ventura County roofing contractor. We offer free, comprehensive estimates, and our work is fully guaranteed.