When it comes to damaged roofs, taking an "out of sight, out of mind" approach can be tempting. But this mindset could prove detrimental particularly with commercial roofs, which tend to deteriorate prematurely. The fact is that without periodic roof maintenance, you could end up spending on expensive repairs, higher energy costs, and future roof failure.
Regular commercial roof repair and preventative maintenance can save your company a lot of money and lessen unexpected repairs. Keep these best practices in mind when working with a professional contractor like D&D Roofing and Sheet Metal, Inc..
Work with roofing contractors
Roofing contractors can help significantly extend the life span of your roof by helping you come up and implement an effective maintenance plan. This is why you must have a detailed record of instances of roof failure, as well as the parts of the roof that need repairs.
Clean up leaves and other debris immediately
Huge mounds of moist and decomposed leaves could block your roof’s scuppers, clog drains, and encourage the growth of mildew, fungi, and mold. If not immediately cleaned up, debris such as these can prevent water from going down the drain and increase the load on your roof. That's around 5 pounds of extra weight on the roof per inch backed-up water. Standing water will rapidly rot your roof, reducing its life span and flexibility.
During winter, it’s crucial to prevent ponding on your roof because standing water will freeze and expand, and force its way under flashings or tiny cracks. All that extra weight from the ice will result in pricey repairs, structural damage, or roof collapse.
Frequently check debris during the fall
A roofing contractor can find and remove leaves and other debris from scuppers and drains. When fall comes around, make sure to have your roof promptly inspected and cleaned to avoid blockage and buildup.
If there’s standing water in an area, there’s likely a blocked drain. However, a partially blocked drain can still slowly let water pass through, which means you may still have a drainage problem even if you don't see standing water on your roof. Moreover, staining on a roof's surface could indicate that water had previously pooled in that area. If you see such stains, it’s best to have a licensed contractor look at your roof.
Have a professional inspect your roof
A reputable roofing contractor will also do a lot more for your roof, such as inspect downpipes and gutters and water-test external and internal drains. Roofing experts will thoroughly check for any little thing that might have been overlooked by the maintenance crew, like making sure strainers are properly attached, and that the bolts securing them to the roof are tightly fastened.
What’s more, experienced contractors will recognize the first signs of faulty penetrations, seams, mortar, flashings, and sealants. They’ll know that downpipes and gutters must be inspected for broken or missing fasteners, loose connections, and sagging.
D&D Roofing and Sheet Metal, Inc., Inc. is a premier roofing contractor that specializes in roofing maintenance and installation. Our expert crew will assist you every step of the way. If you have leaks or gaps, missing tiles, or want to spruce up your roof, get in touch with us today and take advantage of our free estimate.