Your roof is an essential part of keeping your business running, even though it’s out of sight and not in the front of your mind. In fact, you may not even think about your roofing system until something goes wrong — but roof problems can severely impact operations at your commercial property. Let’s go over some commercial roof maintenance tips that building owners and property managers can use to extend their roof’s lifespan and keep the activity in their commercial buildings running smoothly.
1: Understand Your Roof Type
Commercial roofing systems come in different types. The roofing materials that comprise your commercial building’s roof will determine many of your maintenance needs. Many large commercial buildings have flat roofs. There are a few different flat roof types.
Built-Up Roofs
This type of roof is made of alternating layers of roofing felt and bitumen (asphalt) to form a waterproof barrier and then topped with some kind of ballast, like gravel.
Roof Membrane
These roof types consist of a waterproof roof coating, such as TPO, EPDM, or PVC. These materials are long sheets that are adhered to the roof and then connected to form a watertight seal. They are also sometimes ballasted with gravel. Since they are manufactured products, roof membranes typically have warranties on the material.
Metal Roofs
Metal roofs are found on commercial buildings with sloped roofs. They can be made of stainless steel or zinc — and last for a very long time with proper maintenance.
2: Regular Inspections Are Essential
A roof inspection should be an integral part of preventative maintenance on your commercial roof. It’s good for the property owner to perform a visual inspection, but that doesn’t replace having a professional roofing service company perform a detailed inspection to thoroughly assess your roof conditions.
A professional roofer will know to look for specific signs of damage, such as blistering or standing water (ponding). He or she will also inspect your gutters, downspouts, drains, and skylights. Water damage is one of the most serious roof issues a building owner can encounter, and regular inspections alert you of any roof damage so it can be easily repaired.
A preventative maintenance program is a great idea for keeping up-to-date on the status of your roof at all times.
3: Clean Up After Severe Weather
Whether it’s a severe summer storm, bad winter snow, or something even worse, you should always get your roof cleaned up and assessed after severe weather. If branches or debris are blown onto your roof, it can penetrate the roof material and eventually become a roof leak.
Leaves piling up during autumn can also be an issue, as they block your drains and cause water to back up. Water can then freeze and thaw repeatedly over the winter and cause extensive damage.
4: Don’t Delay Repairs
If you or the inspector spots a necessary roof repair, don’t wait! Small roof issues can grow into huge problems that can not only severely affect your business but also drastically shorten the life of your roof.
5: Use a Roofing Company You Trust
Whether it’s inspections, routine maintenance, commercial roof repair, or a new roof, make sure you work with a roofing company that has your interests in mind. When you work closely with one company, they understand your specific roof needs and will be upfront with you about what needs to be done immediately and what can wait.
TEMA Keeps Your Roof Secure
TEMA Roofing Services is the area’s leading commercial roofing company. We have decades of combined experience with all types of commercial roofs. Call us for regular maintenance to extend the service life of your roof — or roof replacement when your old roof isn’t viable. TEMA is your roofing partner for all your commercial roof maintenance needs!
