High temperatures may be welcome for a beach vacation in the summer, but the intense heat of this season can wreak havoc on a commercial roof. Before things heat up too much, it is important to have this crucial part of your building inspected. A full inspection will identify any damage that may have happened over the winter and help you prepare for a busy, hot summer.
So, what are some tips for getting your commercial roof ready for the summer?
The roof and drainage system need to be cleared of all debris. This will give you a clear view of any cracks or broken seals, as well as sagging areas that need to be fixed. You also need to closely inspect all seams, joints, and ventilation areas.
Even if you still may get some mid-spring snow, don’t wait to start clearing off your roof. The more you do now, the less you will have to do later, and you will get a head start scheduling any repairs that might be needed.
So, What are the Effects of Summer Heat and Weather on a Roof?
Intense ultraviolet rays may have a damaging effect on a roof. The increase in temperature may cause expansion that tests the limits of seams and seals throughout the structure. Properly installed and maintained commercial roofs are designed to withstand summer weather, but added pressure of natural disasters can cause even the best seals to crack.
Water can be very damaging to a commercial roof, and even though it is common to think that springtime is the wettest season, the thunderstorms of summer can have horrible effects on roofs.
Summer storms can be very unpredictable, and their strength can test the limits of your drainage system, so it is very important to make sure this system is in proper working order. If it is not, pooling can gather on your rooftop which leads to cracks, leaks, and other breakages.
So, Why is it Important to Prepare for Summer?
As sure as you are that the earth will keep spinning, you know that summer will be here, with high temperatures and all. You need to prepare for the heat and moisture that this season brings so that your building can withstand the elements and not fall into disrepair. If damage that occurred over the winter is not identified and fixed, then you may have a leaky, moldy building on your hands come mid-July.
Hopefully, your building had no damage over the winter, and you have no big repair projects to worry about. Then it is time to be proactive and look for the weaker areas of your roof that may be points of concern during a storm.
Now is the time to prepare these areas for summer weather by adding extra protection on the seams, or maybe using reflective materials so that rays are reflected, and less heat is absorbed by the roof.
Whatever preparations you make now will help your roof remain strong and have less chance of needing repairs or being damaged in the future. You save money by not having high repair bills and keep the business focused on production.
Related Questions
So, Can Changes Around the Building Affect the Roof?
Any differences made over the winter that touch the roof, such as changes in landscaping, new additions, or redirected drainage systems can indeed affect the roof. Take these into consideration when preparing for water flow and weak links in the system.
So, Can Your Roof Reflect the Sun’s Rays?
One thing you can do to help protect your building is to use materials that reflect instead of absorb the sun’s rays. Reflective roof coating is a great option, and a white roof is also an effective way to reflect the sun’s harmful rays.
Commercial Roof Rundown
Before the summer sun is in full swing, be sure to clear off your commercial roof, have it fully inspected, and clean out the drainage system. By getting everything in top shape now, you put your building in a wonderful position to withstand anything mother nature might throw at it.
Make sure your roof is in check throughout the year with roof maintenance and checks by MacDermott Roofing. We are roofing professionals dedicated to delivering roofing services with customer care and quality work. Known for our technical skill and outstanding roofing products including Duro-Last, your commercial roof is in good hands with our services.
If your building needs a new roof installed, repaired, or requires maintenance with mechanical support, we are the roofing contractors to call.