Key Takeaways:
- Commercial roofs require some maintenance on the part of property owners to stay safe and functional for many years.
- The best thing a commercial property owner can do is follow some basic maintenance steps to keep the roof clear of debris and address problems as soon as they arise.
- A professional roof inspection is strongly recommended at least twice a year to diagnose and treat any problems.
The more time and care you put into your commercial property, the more it’ll give back to you. Maintaining a healthy roof helps protect your tenants and keeps your property looking its best for years to come.
Here are some of our best pro tips for commercial roofing maintenance.
Commercial Roofing Maintenance
Inspecting a roof can be dangerous, especially for non-pros. Before you head up to the roof of your commercial building, check your safety equipment:
- Stable ladder
- Harness
- Safety goggles
- Construction-grade gloves
- A soft broom
- A leaf blower
- A gutter scoop
Remember, only a trained and experienced commercial roofer can safely perform a thorough roof inspection. However, there are a few preventive maintenance steps you can take.
Clear Gutters & Downspouts
Clear gutters prevent water from backing up under shingles, which can damage your building’s envelope. Gently scoop out leaves, sticks, and debris from the gutters using gloved hands or a gutter scoop. Then, flush the gutters and downspouts with a hose so water from heavy rains will flow properly. Major clogs in the downspouts should be handled with a plumber’s snake. Finally, take the time to check that all hangers and brackets are secure to prevent sagging or overflow.
Check the Roof’s Surface
Take a look at the roof’s surface for any cracks, punctures, open seams, blisters, worn areas, loose bits, or soft spots. Make sure there are no visible cracks, splits, or tears in the main part of the membrane. These problems may mean that moisture is getting trapped underneath. Also, make sure there’s no lifting or separation at the edges. Look out for any granule loss on modified bitumen surfaces that could expose the base sheet. And finally, keep an eye out for punctures from foot traffic, dropped tools, or anything else that might have fallen.
Remove Debris
Leaves, branches, and even built-up pollen can trap moisture and speed up wear and tear, especially on low-slope commercial roofs. A soft broom or leaf blower will work to gently clear things away. Make sure you don’t use anything that will scrape or drag, as that can damage your roof’s materials. Also, check the drains and scuppers for any blockages and clear them out if you find any.
Look for Standing Water
Make sure there’s no standing water on your roof for more than 48 to 72 hours after it rains. Puddles can cause problems like damage to the roof membrane, extra weight on the structure, and leaks. If you find water still sitting there after three days, it could mean there’s a drainage issue or that the roof isn’t sloped properly to let the water run off.
Check the Building’s Interior
Watch out for signs of leaks inside your property. Check for stains on the ceiling that might mean water is getting in, or musty smells that hint at dampness. If you see paint peeling, that often indicates moisture has gotten into the walls. Take a look at your insulation for signs of dampness or puffiness. Parts of the ceiling that seem to be bulging or changing shape could signal ongoing water issues.
Schedule a Professional Roof Inspection
One of the best ways to protect your roof is with a professional roof inspection. Look for a company that specializes in commercial roofs, including apartment buildings or condos, shops, or office buildings. Your commercial roofer should also have experience and knowledge with local weather patterns and conditions specific to the area.
A professional roofer can find damage or spot potential issues before they become an expensive emergency that may affect your reputation and the safety of your tenants.
Make Repairs As Soon As Possible
Roofing issues won’t fix themselves, and waiting only makes them worse. Addressing small problems now can save you from costly repairs later, especially after storms. Regular maintenance can extend your roof’s life by 30 to 50 percent. So, a roof meant to last 20 years might last only 12 to 14 years without proper care, leading to much higher emergency repair costs.
In roofing, there’s something known as the “25% rule.” This means that if more than 25% of your property’s roof needs repairs, it might make more sense to invest in a new roof.
A Note On Flat Roofs
Flat and low-slope roofs handle water differently than steep roofs. If a drain gets clogged or there’s a spot that keeps holding water, the roof can slowly get worse for months without anyone realizing it. A lot of leaks in flat roofs come from flashing failures. Water tends to seep in at the spots where the flat roof meets vertical surfaces like walls, curbs, and parapets, so any little gap can let it in.
FAQ: Commercial Roofing Maintenance
Q: How often should I have my commercial roof inspected by a professional?
A: At least twice a year, as well as after a major weather event such as hail or thunderstorms.
Q: Am I legally obligated to have my roof professionally inspected?
A: Legally, no. However, we strongly recommend having your roof professionally inspected to protect your warranty and to avoid insurance claim denials in case of damage.
Massachusetts Property Owners Trust Flynn Roofing
At Flynn Roofing, we’ve taken care of commercial property roofs since 1997. With experience plus expertise, you can count on us to inspect, repair, or replace your building’s roof with complete professionalism and customer service.
Commercial property owners in Middlesex, Norfolk, Plymouth, or Suffolk Counties can contact us for a no-obligation, free estimate on our commercial roofing services. Or call us at 617-479-3431 or 781-718-8087 for emergency roof repairs.