Flat commercial roofs are low-maintenance, high-value parts of commercial buildings. Most of the time, they take care of themselves. However, it’s important to perform routine maintenance and periodically check them for damage. When problems occur, early intervention saves thousands of dollars.
There are several signs of roof damage every commercial property owner needs to know:
Pooling Water
Pooling water ranks as the #1 flat commercial roof problem. Sloped roofs naturally shed water due to gravity; however, gravity is no help in removing water from a flat roof. Most likely, your flat roof has a very tiny slope that allows water to drain when it is in good condition. However, even slight damage to the roof eliminates this slope. When that occurs, excess water pools, a condition that causes leaks, mold growth, and structural damage.
Buckling
Buildings settle over time, and the roof is involved in this process. As the structure gradually moves, the space between the roofing membrane and the building itself contracts. The pressure may then cause the membrane, a rigid sheet of material, to buckle, resulting in a permanently damaged roof.
Debris
Because they are open to the elements and lack a slope, flat roofs collect all types of debris. Debris often blocks drainage. Worse, it absorbs water, damaging the roof during the winter as the moisture is frozen, thawed, and frozen again.
Alligatoring
Even the toughest roof membrane can only take so much sun exposure. Constant rays on a flat roof create damaging cracks and bubbles, eventually causing it to resemble the skin of an alligator.
The Importance of Flat Roof Maintenance
Flat roofs can last for 40-plus years, but only with proper maintenance. To prevent your roof from needing premature replacement and your pocketbook from premature lightening, you must ensure that it never suffers from neglect.
In addition to helping your roof last a long time, regular maintenance identifies issues before they become catastrophic. By catching these issues early, failures remain preventable.
Many warranties also require roof owners to comply with specific maintenance requirements, just like an auto warranty. Neglecting required maintenance can void the warranty, leaving you with costly out-of-pocket repairs.
Documenting your roof’s condition before you make an insurance claim can be the difference between an approval and a denial. In addition, conducting required upkeep produces regular photos and maintenance update documents that establish your roof’s excellent condition before a storm, or other hazard caused the damage.
Tips for Excellent Flat Roof Maintenance
Taking proper care of your roof is essential, and you should always have your commercial roofing contractor perform all required scheduled maintenance. In addition, here are some tips for keeping your roof in excellent shape.
Look for Leaks Often
Left unrepaired, leaks damage equipment, cause mold, and weaken the building’s structure. To prevent these consequences, look for leaks frequently. If possible, periodically check the roof for peeling or damaged materials. In addition, inspect ceilings and walls for discolorations. High humidity on the upper floors is another sign of leaks.
Keep Your Gutters Free and Clear
Water and moisture must drain from your roof for it to last. Checking your gutters monthly for debris and clearing obstructions promptly ensures your roof drains and lasts.
Schedule Regular Roof Inspections
You cannot always spot leaks or damage. However, scheduling inspections with your roofing contractor twice annually allows you to uncover problems before they grow. Also, try to schedule inspections for the spring and fall, so you can see how well your industrial roof handles the extremes of summer and winter temperatures.
Avoid Pressure Washing the Roof
Though cleaning away the dirt helps maintain a roof, pressure washing can do more harm than good. High-pressure spray can damage the roof in mere minutes. The water from the pressure washer then seeps into the roof’s underlay, trapping moisture that over time causes mold, insect infestations, and structural damage.
Instead, hire a professional roofing contractor equipped with commercial roof cleaning equipment and solutions that gently clear away dirt and grime.
Perform Visual Inspections After Every Severe Storm
Here in Michigan, severe storms go with the territory no matter the season. These storms damage even the most well-maintained commercial roofs. The sooner you recognize damage, the less costly it is to fix.
After a storm, be sure to walk around the building’s exterior and check if the flashing and drainage systems have remained intact.
If you can access the roof, visually inspect the surface for damaged materials. If you see loose roofing pieces, bubbles, or tears on the surface, call your roofer immediately.
Stay on Top of Tree Trimming
Low-hanging limbs present a danger to your roof. Keeping them trimmed prevents them from coming down on your building and causing damage. Be sure to book semi-annual tree trimming to avoid this problem.
When to Call a Commercial Roofing Contractor for Help
When you notice the signs of roof damage, never delay. Instead, contact your roofing contractor right away. Pooling water, buckling, alligatoring, and other surface damage must be dealt with right away. In addition, should your flashing or gutters cease to be effective, you should call your contractor for repairs. Immediate intervention reduces the level of damage and saves you thousands of dollars in the long run.
MacDermott Roofing are experts in the roofing industry and have been delivering the highest quality and personalized customer service in the Detroit metro area for over 45 years. If you need your commercial roof inspected, you’ll receive a custom quote from one of our professional estimators who will help you to understand your roofing issues and solution options.
As an industrial roofing company, we maintain, repair, install and replace all types of low-slope and flat roofs for commercial, industrial, municipal, and institutional customers. Call and speak with a roofing expert today!