As the weather gets colder and snowier, many of us are turning our attention to holiday shopping, planning vacations, and thinking ahead to spring. But what about roof maintenance on your business? For example, if you live in an area where winter weather worsens in November (like much of the Northeast), now is the time to review 5 reasons you need a pre-winter commercial roof inspection.
Save Money and Extend the Life of Your Roof
Once you have a new roof installation, building owners should have regular roof inspections at least twice a year: in the spring after the winter thaw or rainy season, then in the fall before the snow or rainy season. Any standing water can wreak havoc on your roof, regardless of the roofing material. In-depth inspections will help you identify problems before they become costly repairs.
The average life expectancy of a commercial roof can range from 15 to 30 years with regular roofing services and inspection services. Without further ado, here are the 5 reasons for a pre-winter commercial roofing inspection.
- Drainage systems. If there is ponding water – or any signs of water – it needs attention. Gathered water can be a result of blocked gutters and downspouts.
- Are there unseen issues with your roofing system? Look at the type of roof membrane, used for flat roofing systems. How are the shingles? Is water pooling around HVAC systems? What’s the ply roofing (plaster or rubber) condition?
- Temperature – Address roof surface needs when it’s decent out and roof repair crews aren’t outside in blustery freezing weather conditions.
- Skylights – Check for leaves and other debris, or cracks in around the roof window which could lead to roof leaks.
- Utility bills – Any detected roof damage could cost money in heating and cooling expenses.
Is Your Roof Covering Failing?
From state to state, commercial roof inspection checklists may vary. Generally, in addition to twice a year, you’ll want to let roof inspectors know if you notice the following of your commercial roof inspection:
- Are there signs of water damage? — Water stains or peeling paint on the ceiling or walls inside the structure could be caused by a leaky roof that needs repair.
- Signs of roof penetrations — Vents and chimneys could cause extra moisture build-up if they’re blocked, which leads to ice dams in cold temperatures and eventually leaks on your roof if left untreated all winter long.
- Do older or improperly installed shingles, coatings or downspouts need to be replaced?
- Have you noticed missing flashes?
Watching the Weather
Take note throughout the year on how the weather treats your roof and present any concerns or findings to your roofing inspector.
Through the winter, ice dams can cause leaks, leading to damaged walls, insulation and ceilings. This is when melting snow causes a stream of water to run down a roof, then refreeze. If you are located in a snow belt, heavy snow loads can weaken trusses of a roof, causing a bowed, sagging or collapsed roof.
Hiring a Reputable Roofing Company
Using a commercial roofing contractor, whether for roof replacement or inspecting your roof performance, will also help you save money by doing the work correctly from the start. That was, most roofing problems can be avoided or at least mitigated, saving you time and money.
Damages and repairs will also be handled by the contractor as outlined in a warranty. Otherwise, you will have to pay for any mistakes.
Schedule Your Roof Inspection Today
Take care of any commercial building roofing concerns by performing routine maintenance. That includes commercial roofing inspections, which you now know a bit more about. Whether you live in a snowy location or somewhere with lots of seasonal rain, get ahead of the forecast each spring and fall. Contact TEMA Roofing Services today for a commercial roofing inspection.
