Proactive Commercial Roof Maintenance:
Protecting Your Investment

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Maintaining commercial roofing systems is essential to their longevity and performance. Swiftly addressing repairs and preventing minor issues from evolving into major problems is crucial. Neglecting maintenance can lead to insulation degradation and significant damage to your building’s roof.

Best Practices for General Maintenance and Owner Inspection

Building managers responsible for commercial properties should maintain comprehensive records related to the roofing system. These records should encompass contractor job records, specifications for future reference, and architectural drawings. When necessary, managers should consult with experienced contractors to establish a routine maintenance and inspection schedule.

Detailed documentation should include the inspection date, findings, and any identified damage. If damage is observed, it’s imperative to promptly notify a contractor to initiate repairs.

When to Conduct Inspections

A recommended practice is to schedule commercial roof inspections at least twice a year, ideally in the spring and fall. Additionally, it’s essential to inspect the roof after severe weather conditions to detect any potential issues.

Maintenance Essentials

To extend the life of your roof, regular removal of debris, such as cans, twigs, leaves, and other small items that could obstruct drains, is essential. Ensure that all debris is bagged and removed from the roof, as heavy rainfall can wash it into gutters, leading to drainage pipe blockages and leaks.

When to Engage a Contractor

Upon discovering a leak, it’s imperative to promptly contact a contractor. If possible, attempt to identify the source of the leak and assess whether it requires professional intervention. Several factors contribute to roof leaks, including weather conditions, wind direction, and current or recent rainfall. Note whether the leak persists after rain has ceased or until the roof has dried completely. Providing comprehensive information about the leak will facilitate quicker repairs.

In emergency situations, managers may temporarily patch roof holes until they can be permanently repaired. However, for all other repairs, managers should avoid attempting repairs themselves. DIY repairs may conceal evidence needed by contractors to diagnose roof problems. For safety reasons, no one should walk on the roof until repairs are completed. Additionally, refrain from allowing the installation of satellites, antennas, or other mechanical equipment on the roof until all repairs have been finalized.

Conclusion

Proactive commercial roof maintenance is vital to preserve your roofing system’s integrity and protect your investment. Regular inspections, documentation, debris removal, and timely contractor engagement are essential steps in ensuring your commercial roof continues to provide reliable protection for your building.