As a commercial building owner, you already know how important it is that operations run smoothly. But, have you considered what’s going on up above? Without regular commercial roof maintenance, your roof can become vulnerable to leaks and other damage that negatively impact day-to-day operations – and even your bottom line.
That’s why knowing the ins and outs of a regular maintenance program helps to ensure that your building remains in tip-top shape for years to come.
Get Regular Inspections on the Calendar
Regular service of your commercial roof is a necessity, not an option. Afterall, a well-maintained roof protects the building itself and all of the assets contained in it!
Ask any good commercial roofing company and they will tell you that routine maintenance and repairs to your roof should be done twice a year. It’s best to have an inspection scheduled in the spring following the winter thaw and again in the fall just before the snow starts to fly.
If there’s a severe weather event (that includes high winds or heavy precipitation), schedule an inspection as soon as possible. Trained roofing contractors will know what signs of damage to look for.
Create a RAM Plan
Many companies choose to stay on track with a roof asset management (RAM) plan. It’s a comprehensive program that helps you document everything about your roof, including square footage, roofing materials (like TPO, PVC etc.), the age of your roof, any warranty plans that might be in place, and your custom preventative maintenance plan.
Preventative Maintenance: A Proactive vs. Reactive Approach
Don’t wait for signs of structural damage before addressing roof problems. It can cost you a lot of unplanned money and disrupt operations.
Embracing routine commercial roof maintenance performed by a trusted roofing contractor helps detect minor problems while they are still small enough to repair. And, consequently, proactively identifying and addressing issues, such as ponding, tree limbs hanging over the roof, and gutter clogs, helps to improve your roof’s lifespan.
Budget Money and Time for Repairs
By adding routine commercial roof maintenance to your roof maintenance program, you’ll be able to set a more accurate budget – and plan for possible downtime – when it comes to roof repair.
A RAM plan helps you know what repairs are needed (if any) following the roof inspection, which allows you to organize a budget so that you aren’t dealing with large commercial roof issues all at once.
Cross Roofing Issues Off Your Checklist
Sometimes before you call a commercial roofing contractor, you can survey your commercial roofing system on your own. A checklist helps commercial property owners during this type of self inspection. It can make you aware of crucial roofing components, from the surface of the roof membrane to the downspouts and drainage system.
If you decide to do your own quick inspection, it can help you when talking with a contractor so that you’ll better understand their processes and give you peace of mind.
Do you Need Repairs or a Replacement?
Regular commercial roof maintenance can be the difference between making smaller repairs or having to install an entirely new roof – again, it’s the difference between proactive and reactive. Determining whether your commercial building needs repairs or an entire replacement can be done by distinguishing between a few signs.
Repairs
Commercial roof repairs are optimal for isolated roof issues, such as minor roof leaks, damaged shingles, blisters to the roofing membrane, or the smell of mildew in an area of your building.
Replacement
Age, significant water damage, standing water, and widespread damage throughout the entirety of your roof are signs that it’s time for a commercial roof replacement.
Commercial Roof Maintenance Tips
There are some things you can do to ensure the service life of your low-slope, flat roof, or metal roofing.
- Keep your roof clean of debris, and be diligent about snow removal.
- Make sure vents, skylights, seams, and HVAC units are property sealed.
- Avoid foot traffic on the roof.
- Monitor standing water.
- Regularly maintain your drainage system by keeping gutters, scuppers, and downspouts clear.
Team up with Our Roofing Company to Cover Your Maintenance
A regular commercial roof maintenance plan is essential for the longevity (and durability) of your roof. It’s important to check regularly for any issues, problems or deterioration that may have occurred since your last inspection. By staying proactive and taking time to do regular preventative maintenance at least twice a year, you can save thousands of dollars in the long run.
If you are unsure where to start, contact the professionals at TEMA Roofing Services to help organize and execute your commercial roof maintenance plan. With our expertise, we aim to make sure your roof stays in great condition for years to come. Don’t wait another day – contact us and get started!
