The primary goal of a commercial building’s roof inspection is to keep your roof system well-maintained and in good standing with any warranties that may be in place.
Without a structurally sound roof, your entire business is exposed to the elements and could become hazardous for employees, too. But, how often do you need to get a roof inspection, and what should you expect from one
Dangers of Avoiding a Roof Inspection
A lot can go wrong if you neglect to get routine roof inspections. While you may think everything’s fine, there could be danger accumulating above your commercial business.
For one, there’s the risk of ponding water. It’s natural for the structure of a flat roof to naturally sag in some places. However, those dips make for a perfect place to collect water, and even a small puddle can cause major issues over time.
Standing water can breed mosquitos and other insects, attract wild animals, and lead to vegetation–in addition to becoming a point of entry for water infiltration. The constant presence of water can lead to blistering of the roofing material. Much of this damage may not be obvious until there is a problem, like a roof leak.
As the problem worsens, you’ll run the risk of severe water damage (which could lead to the need for major roof repairs, commercial roof replacement or even a possible roof collapse).
*Keep in mind that severe weather can also be a major cause of roof damage, too. Weather conditions like hail storms and high winds can take their toll on your commercial roof, and inspections are extremely important to have done following any big storms that make their way through your area.
Commercial roof ventilation can prevent issues like moisture buildup, water damage, and minimize the amount you spend on energy bills. A commercial roof inspection can let you know the state of your ventilation or if you should get one installed in the future.
Your best bet is to get a roof inspection twice a year, in spring and fall. This way you can prepare for a shift in weather patterns that may cause leaks and damage to your building.
Keep Records on Commercial Roofing Inspections
Roof inspection records provide proof that your roof has been inspected by a professional and is in acceptable condition. Realtors usually advise clients to provide this certification to assure the condition of the building, and some cities require owners to repair their roofs before resale.
For commercial buildings, whether or not a building has received a certification can affect investor interest. Those records also help to prove that the roof system’s warranty remains intact, should the roofing product fail and need to be replaced.
Comprehensive roofing inspections often take into account supporting structures, roof drains, ventilation, and areas of roof penetrations. A detailed report will include photographs, sketches, and a plan for what to do next.
Commercial Roof Inspection Checklist
A roof inspection can (and will) help you learn more about your building, what problems need to be fixed, and what changes are recommended based on the type of building. No two roofs are the same, nor should they be treated that way.
Here are a few things on a standard roof inspection checklist to keep in mind.
1. General Roofing System Conditions
A qualified commercial roofing contractor will take a variety of aspects into account. They will note any debris on the roof that may lead to damage, drainage issues (or lack thereof) and anything that can lead to structural deformation.
Furthermore, an inspector will note any small cracks or blisters, along with any signs of structural corrosion or potential points of failure on the roof itself.
2. Ceiling Conditions within the Commercial Building
Even if the roof looks completely fine, the ceiling will tell if there are any unseen issues. Water staining or leaks suggest that moisture is getting through the roof. Cracks could also be a sign that there’s an issue.
3. Note Potential Points of Future Failure
Normal roof features include gutters and drains, skylights, chimneys, drains, and control zone access.
Gutters and drains in particular help to prevent water from collecting on your roof. Any blockages in them stop them from doing their job efficiently. Depending on your roof type, any amount of excess moisture can lead to roof failure.
If your building has skylights, that’s one possible entry point for water and pests. The inspector will check that they’re sealed well and free of any cracks or holes.
Roof Inspection Cost
The cost of a roof inspection depends on the size and complexity of the roof. While most will cost you a few hundred dollars, you can request a free roof inspection from certain companies or get a free estimate in advance of potential repair or replacement.
But regardless of how much the inspection costs, being proactive about roofing concerns will save you a great deal of money down the line. Repairing water damage can end up costing thousands of dollars, but in many instances, with regular roofing inspections, those issues can be prevented or delayed.
A roof inspection can help you avoid any of these issues and deal with them beforehand. Regular roof maintenance is key to extending the lifespan of your commercial roof and avoiding a possible roof replacement.
Roofing Industry Experts in Inspection, Repair and Replacement
Scheduling a regular roof inspection is just one piece to the puzzle of taking care of your commercial building’s roof. You also need to be proactive about repairs that are needed and be vigilant in maintaining any warranty you may have.
When you need a commercial roof inspection you can trust, reach out to an knowledgeable roofing company like TEMA Roofing. We have over 50 years of experience, a full range of services, and long-term support. Contact us today to request service or get a quote.
