6- Maintenance Tips to Extend the Life of Your Commercial Roof

Your commercial building is a significant investment, and you want every aspect, including the roof, to last as long as possible. If your roof fails, it can damage other parts of the building. And let’s not forget that a roof replacement can be quite expensive.

Fortunately, commercial roof maintenance is easier and more affordable than a full roof replacement.

Here are some best practices for commercial roof maintenance. These strategies can increase the life of your roof.

Address Roof Problems Promptly

Prompt repairs are crucial for physical, storm, or regular rooftop maintenance due to physical damage, storm damage, or other trade activities. Ignoring a problem will worsen and increase the risk of your roof needing a total replacement.

So, it’s best to take care of roofing issues while they can still be repaired. Most manufacturers’ commercial roofing warranties need owners to report leaks immediately.  You must see your warranty for specific requirements.

Repair Commercial Roof Leaks Immediately

The immediate removal of even minor leaks is crucial for commercial roof repair. No matter the leak’s size, it can cause long-term damage if left unchecked. Inspect your building’s interior regularly for signs of water damage, such as stains, wet areas, or mould development. If you see any indications of a leak, contact a reputable roofing company immediately to identify and fix the problem before it worsens.

Trim Overhanging Trees and Remove Debris

Overhanging trees near your commercial roof can present potential threats, especially if they touch or fall onto the roof. Windy conditions can cause branches to strike roofing materials, leading to punctures or dents. Fallen branches can also puncture through membranes, resulting in further damage.

 Tree roots can sometimes penetrate roofing materials, causing structural problems and potential leaks. Removing tree branches that come too near to the roof helps maintain its structural integrity.

Replace the Caulk Around Flashings

Flashing is vital in preventing water from entering your commercial roof through your chimney or vent pipes. While it may not be something you think about regularly, conducting a yearly inspection is crucial to ensure it’s working properly. During this examination, it’s advisable to replace any worn-out caulk.

If you see flashing that is separating or has gaps, it’s essential to seek professional roofing repair services. A roofing contractor can carefully remove the damaged flashing to create a clean surface. Then, they may fill in the gap with fresh caulk. This can help maintain a secure and waterproof seal.

Invest in a Roof Walkway

Accidents can occur at any time, regardless of one’s level of caution. Regular roof inspections are crucial. For this purpose, consider installing a roof walkway so that you and your staff can walk the roof safely to inspect for damage or to clear off the roof as needed. A roofing contractor may be able to provide some guidance regarding the best kind of roofing walkway for your specific space.

Choose the Right Commercial Roofing Contractor

You should choose a qualified and experienced roofing contractor. This expense is crucial when calculating your long-term roofing expenses. Research your contractor options, prioritizing quality of work and safety practices over cost to ensure a successful project.

Furthermore, seeking commercial roofing services from an expert contractor can be beneficial if concerns exist after a maintenance review of the roof. They can assess the condition of the roof, estimate its remaining life, help you create a maintenance plan, and identify extra precautions to protect the roof.