Yes. If you want your flat roof to last, that is.
While you may be trying to save some money now by missing a commercial roof inspection or two, it could end up costing you a ton in repairs or even a complete roof replacement later.
Regular roof maintenance is crucial to keeping your roof in good condition. While you may think everything is fine, your drainage system and roof need to be checked out regularly to protect them from major damage.
What kind of damage? Let us fill you in.
Common Roof Problems From Skipping Routine Inspections
If you don’t schedule regular roofing services, you’re putting your roof’s condition at risk. Regular roof inspections catch roofing issues early so they don’t become larger problems that can cost you tons in roof repairs later. Without care from trained roofing professionals, several issues can develop on your roof’s surface.
Clogged Gutters and Downspouts
Skipping a regular inspection can wreak havoc on your drainage system. Unchecked, debris can gather on your roof’s surface and end up in your drains. This may not seem like a big deal, but it can lead to major issues for your commercial property.
Ponding Water
Blocked gutters and severe weather can lead to standing water on flat roofs. While some standing water is bound to happen after rain, if you notice it on your roof 48 hours later, then it’s a problem. And, like all problems on this list, it can lead to worse issues if left unaddressed.
Mold and Mildew Build Up
When you let water stand too long on your roof, it leads to stagnant water. In and of itself, this can be a health issue by inviting parasites like mosquitos to your commercial property, but it also encourages the growth of mold and mildew. In fact, mold can begin growing on a damp surface within 24 hours.
Again, this may seem like a small problem, but enough mold and mildew can cause issues with your roof materials and coatings or even cause structural damage to your roof deck. The inspection process is easy compared to removing mold and mildew.
Roof Material Breakdown
Roofing material wears down over time. Your roof may be deteriorating without you realizing it. If you let this go on for too long, your roofing substrate can be exposed to weather elements and lead to damage. What would have once been a small patch job can become a costly major repair for commercial building owners.
Roof Edge or Flashing Damage
Between inspections, the flashing around penetrations, such as HVACs and skylights, may come loose from high winds or other weather events. Your roof’s edges also need to stay sealed. If you don’t check these areas, your roof is vulnerable to water leaks.
Water Damage and Roof Leaks
Ponding water can lead to water stains — and eventually water damage and leaks. Additionally, if your roofing system isn’t checked regularly for penetrations or loose seam fasteners, you risk developing leaks as well.
Structural Damage
Let water damage or mold get out of hand, and you risk deteriorating roofing materials. Eventually, this can seep into your roofing substrate and lead to major structural damage that could require partial or full roof replacement.
When Should You Have Roof Inspections Done?
If you notice any of the signs listed above, then it’s definitely time to contact a professional commercial roofing contractor and have your roof assessed.
But – if you just want to keep up with your regular roof maintenance, it’s best to schedule two inspections per year. We typically recommend one in the fall before any severe weather and one in the spring. Doing so makes sure that your roof can handle any weather changes coming its way and that your roof survives that weather.
Bi-Annual Commercial Roof Inspection Checklist
When you get your bi-annual checkup, you want to make sure the roof inspector does the following:
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- Cleans debris off the roof
- Identifies any damage done to the roof surface
- Checks for evidence of ponding water like water stains
- Carefully inspects the roof field for any small penetrations or cracks in the roofing material
- Checks the roof’s edges to make sure that they’re sealed properly
- Checks your drainage systems to make sure they aren’t damaged or blocked in any way
- Checks flashing and penetrations, such as HVAC machines and skylights to make sure they are sealed properly
Don’t Risk Damage – Keep Up on Roof Maintenance
As a commercial building owner or facilities manager, your roof is one of your most important assets – so treat it that way. You must make sure that you keep your roof in good condition, or you risk needing a replacement. Missing a commercial roof inspection puts your roof – and your bottom line – in danger.
But if you schedule your inspection with a fly-by-night roofer who doesn’t care about the health of your roofing system, it can also put your roof in danger. Avoid this and team up with the best professional roofing company you can.
If you want to keep your roof as healthy as possible for as long as possible, we’re here to help. We offer cloud-based roof asset management systems so you can check all your inspection reports no matter where you are or when it is. Contact us about our services today, and you’ll never have to worry about the health of your roof again.
