If you are a property manager or business owner, you should take your roof’s condition seriously at all times. Your roof is a significant line item that can sink your budget if it is not properly cared for regularly.
Not only will you be drowning in roof-related expenses if you don’t maintain your commercial roof…
the damage and injuries it can cause could lead to even more financial losses from equipment damage and litigation.
As with residential roofs, it is a good idea to get a roof inspection at least twice a year to ensure it is safe and sound. Here’s more on commercial roofing systems and why keeping them maintained is worthwhile.
Protection From the Elements
The roof is your building’s first line of defense against the elements. It must be able to withstand the intensity of UV rays, heavy snow and ice, rain, and high winds while keeping inhabitants, products, and equipment inside safe and dry.
Besides protection from the elements, a commercial roof needs proper protection from the damage that the elements can cause. There must be proper coverage to protect from mold growth, leaks, structural rot, and other threats.
Whether it is extremely arid, moist, or icy outdoors, your commercial roof should keep the interior bone-dry so your facility can continue operations without interruption.
Carrying Heavy Loads
Commercial roofs do more than just cover a building. In some cases, this may be the only place in the building to house heavy items required for its operation, such as the HVAC systems and industrial exhaust fans.
A commercial roof must provide protection from the elements, especially in Michigan, while simultaneously carrying thousands of pounds of live loads without buckling or collapsing. It must also be able to handle the stress of loads from unpredictable heavy snow accumulation and standing water that may build up throughout the year.
A roof compromised by a poor roofing system or by failed regular maintenance could cause a catastrophic structural failure, in which the roof itself and the units stored on it could collapse. Installing a high-quality roof, such as a Duro-Last roof system, and regularly maintaining it will help you master the gravity game and avoid structural collapse from heavy weight.
Managing the Building’s Energy
In addition to protecting against the elements and carrying loads, your commercial roof is critical for maintaining comfort within the building. According to EnergyStar, 30 percent of energy consumed in commercial buildings is wasted.
While the HVAC system is primarily responsible for heating and cooling the building, the roof keeps it from escaping. A commercial roof in excellent condition can also help regulate the system and keep heating and cooling bills consistent. It will also keep your HVAC system from running overtime, cutting down on expensive repairs and premature replacement costs.
To improve upon your commercial roof’s performance, incorporating R-value insulation and reflective cool roof membranes can help keep your building cool by rejecting outdoor heat in summer and containing warmth indoors in winter.
Moving Water
A quality commercial roof will need to quickly move water from rainfall and snow from the roof and away from the building’s foundation. Since many commercial roofs are flatter than most residential ones, they require quality engineering to prevent water from ponding, which can lead to mold and structural rot.
Using a combination of tapered insulation, scuppers, and internal drains, a commercial roof will quickly drain thousands of gallons of runoff.
Protecting Assets
Of all the reasons to have a quality commercial roof, protecting what’s underneath it is the most critical. Since most commercial buildings house products and machines used to manufacture them, keeping these items safe is essential. Beyond the products and machines, a solid commercial roof will also keep employees and guests safe, minimizing the risk of slip-and-fall accidents that could lead to legal action.
Get Your Roof Ready for Summer with MacDermott Roofing
MacDermott Roofing is an Elite Master Contractor and a leading expert in Duro-Last roofing systems. For more than 50 years, we have provided commercial roof installation, replacement, and repair throughout Metro Detroit. With a reputation for service, technical skill, and product knowledge, we take pride in clear communication with every project partner including support for mechanical contractors. Contact us today to make sure your roof is ready for summer heat and storms.