Your commercial roof keeps your building safe from the elements, as long as it remains in good condition. This requires routine maintenance to clean it and check for problems that need to be addressed. Since your roof is such an important investment, it’s essential to know how to properly maintain it.
With so much on your plate as a commercial building owner, how can you make sure you cover everything in terms of roof maintenance? Keep the following commercial roof maintenance tips in mind.
Take Detailed Notes
Make note of who goes on your roof, which areas they go to on your roof, and when they go up there. You should also make note of why they go on your roof, such as to clear debris or check a particular area for damage. Having detailed notes makes it easier to keep track of when maintenance was done, who handled it, and which areas were checked.
Determine the State of Your Roof
If you’re checking your commercial roof, categorize the condition of different parts. Note which areas are in good condition with no action needed, which ones are in fair condition that should be monitored, and which are in bad condition that require immediate action. Take photos of damaged areas, and determine the actions that need to be taken.
Create a Toolkit
Having items you need on hand makes it easier to do proper maintenance. Put a toolkit together containing a checklist, pencil or pen for writing down notes, a copy of roof plans and aerial photos, and a camera to take photos. Your toolkit should also have a flashlight for checking darker areas safely, as well as a tape measure.
Check the Walls
Roof maintenance includes checking interior areas for signs of leaks and other problems. Check the walls to see if there are any signs of mold or moisture damage, such as peeling paint or dark patches. Mold can grow inside walls when your roof has a leak, which can lead to health issues for building tenants.
Check Chimneys and Vents
Water can seep into openings around chimneys and vents if you’re not careful. Check these areas for any signs of dampness or moisture, which indicates that water has been able to get in. If any are found, these gaps need to be sealed to prevent leaks.
Check for Proper Ventilation
Proper ventilation is an important part of keeping your roof in good condition. Check for cracks in the sheathing and rafters in your building’s attic, and look for any areas of roof decking that are sagging. If you see light coming through, this can indicate gaps or openings that can lead to poor ventilation.
Check for Leaks
Having a roof leak can lead to extensive damage in your commercial building, so it’s important to catch them early. Look for water spots and other signs of a roof leak, take photos of damaged areas, and have a professional roofer do a thorough inspection. This helps determine where the leak is occurring, so your roofer can repair it as soon as possible.
Check for Debris and Visible Damage
Seeing visible damage and debris indicates a problem with your roofing system. Look around for obvious signs of roof damage, including broken or clogged downspouts and gutters. This kind of damage can raise the risk of water damage in your building.
Look for Signs of Wear and Tear
Your commercial roof is made up of various components that can deteriorate over time. Check flashings, vents, decking, chimneys, drip edges, fascia, and other areas for wear and tear. For example, you might see rust or corrosion, missing components, or rotting areas. These kinds of issues can end up shortening the lifespan of your roof.
Check Flat Roofing
If you have a flat commercial roof, look for areas of ponding or standing water. Having ponding on your roof can lead to water damage and deterioration. Check your flat roof for other signs of damage or wear and tear, such as punctures, blisters, or holes. You should also see if any areas are pulling away from your roof.
Schedule Professional Roof Maintenance
Having a professional roofer handle commercial roof maintenance saves you time and stress. When you have maintenance done at least once a year, you can expect your roof to stay in good shape. Professional roofers can check every part of your roof for damage, determine what needs to be done, and start repairs quickly.
If you need to schedule commercial roof maintenance, please contact Red Diamond Roofing. Our roofers in the Denver and Fort Collins area can ensure that your commercial roof stays in great shape over the years.
