Spring is finally here, and it’s time for spring cleaning. It’s also the perfect time to inspect your commercial roof and make repairs before summer. Spring cleanup and maintenance are vital for commercial roofs to extend their lifespan and save money.
What are some clean up and maintenance tips for my commercial roof this spring?
Below is a list of the most expected tips for the change of seasons.
1. Remove debris
2. Schedule Inspections
3. Clean gutter systems
4. Wash the roof surface
5. Perform inspections after storms
6. Trim any overhanging branches
7. Look For and repair leaks
8. Inspect the ceiling on the inside
Winter months are hard on your roof with the cold weather, snow, ice, and storms. To make sure your roof is in tip-top condition, you need to take the proper steps. Here are some helpful tips from our expert commercial roofing contractor to get you started.
Schedule Inspections
Spring and fall are the two seasons we recommend having your commercial roof inspected. A technician from the roofing company will evaluate your roof and recommend any needed repairs. Damage to the flashing is noted, and the seams are closely looked at to ensure no water or debris has seeped through. The roofing technician will also look for signs of damage to sealants and bubbling or punctures in the membrane.
Remove Debris
Before doing anything else, professionals will check for any debris or other unnecessary items on the roof. The most common things that gather on the roof are leaves, limbs, forgotten tools, and unused materials. The number of people that go on your roof throughout the year may surprise you. Two examples:
● HVAC units that have been inspected or repaired.
● Contractors that have gone up there for repairs or inspections.
Checking and Cleaning Gutter Systems
Inspecting the roof’s gutters and drains is essential for proper drainage. If either of these is clogged, it can cause water to pool on your roof, decreasing its lifespan. Our professionals will thoroughly inspect these areas and remove any debris that may cause issues with your drainage system.
Wash The Roof’s Surface
The buildup of dirt on the rooftop can lead to mold and mildew, slowly eating away at your roof. Commercial roofing companies will pressure wash your roof on a low setting with a soft bristle brush to safely remove any mold, algae, and moss from the roof’s surface.
If you have a Duro-Last roof, it’s crucial to ensure any dark spots where debris or standing water may have collected. These dark spots absorb UV rays that can break down the roof’s membrane over time.
Perform Inspections After Storms
In addition to inspections twice a year, your rooftop needs to be inspected after severe weather. A roofing system can be damaged by high winds, hail, and heavy rainfalls. Doing this helps prevent minor problems from developing into large ones.
Trim Overhanging Branches
There are many positive things about trees. They provide shade in the summer and can improve your mood. The downside of trees is if they grow too close to the building, limbs can blow off and damage your roof. Also, branches on your rooftop can prevent water from draining properly, leading to algae growth.
Look For and Repair Leaks
Harsh winters can leave a mess on your rooftop. The weight of snow and ice can lead to pooling water and may lead to moisture leaks. Leaks then seep into the interior of the building leading to costly interior damage. If the leaks go unnoticed, they will worsen over time.
During your professional spring inspection, they will examine the roof for evidence of leaks. They will inspect surface materials, especially around seams, vents, downspouts, caulking, edges, membrane, and other areas that are susceptible to damage.
Any found leaks will then be noted so that these issues can be addressed immediately. Having them immediately repaired prevents the problems from worsening and requires more money to repair.
Inspect The Ceiling on The Inside
When having the rooftop inspected for visible signs of damage, the ceiling should also be checked. Water stains, peeling, paint, and mold odors are clear signs of something wrong. Your roofing contractor will also look for warped or sagging areas because this helps to find the location of the damage.
Commercial Roofing Services
Call a pro such as MacDermott Roofing in the Detroit area to ensure your commercial roof inspection is done right the first time. With more than 45 years of experience, our commercial roofing services include new roof installation – certified in Duro-Last Roofing systems, maintenance, roof repairs and more. Call for a Free Estimate on roofing services today!