A well-maintained structure is the first line of defense against extreme weather or structural damage. Regular monitoring and maintenance are essential.
by Bill Lomel
The roof can be one of the largest financial investments in a commercial property; however, it can also become one of the most neglected parts of any building. A well-maintained roof is the first line of defense against extreme weather or structural damage. Regular monitoring and maintenance by property managers is essential.
Roofing problems, if not addressed early, will cause major headaches for property managers who oversee the day-to-day operations of a building. Ignoring the warning signs of roof wear and tear can also lead to the need for a full roof replacement—a costly and stressful undertaking.
As property managers, it is your responsibility to maintain and secure a property, creating the best possible experience for tenants. Roof upkeep is an important, but often neglected, part of building maintenance. These four tips can help you detect roof problems before damage becomes serious or, better yet, prevent damage from occurring in the first place.
- Make sure your roof is draining properly
Many properties are surrounded by trees or other greenery. Debris can easily build up and block the roof’s drainage system, causing strain on the structure of the roof. While roofs are designed as a protective shield against water and other elements, a blockage met with heavy rain or snow can transform your roof into an ad hoc swimming pool—and, that’s not the type of “rooftop amenity” residents or tenants will enjoy. Regularly clean gutters and drains, in addition to valleys, pipes and skylights, to prevent damage.
- Be aware of who’s on your roof at all times and inspect it after mechanical repairs.
The roof is usually home to a lot of mechanical equipment, including HVAC technology, that often needs repairs or service. At the time of service, the roof is typically treated with the same harshness as a concrete floor. Dropped tools or the sheer weight of repair equipment can cause roof damage, and this damage can lead to immediate leaks or punctures. In fact, 40 percent of all roof problems occur because of human error. Detect these problems immediately, and you’ll avoid more serious issues later.
- Understand how resident turnover can affect your roof.
Particularly in retail spaces, property managers deal with some degree of turnover in tenants and use of space. Many times, tenants make additions or upgrades to building equipment, adding different levels of penetration to the roof in the process. Make sure all seams and joints are secure and that sealants and flashings are intact. Encourage tenants to bring damage or leaks to your attention immediately, no matter where or why these problems occur. If a property is not controlled and finished work is not adequately sealed, this can cause severe structural damage. It’s better to know now than later.
- Finally, consider your location and climate.
Wear and tear concerns vary according to climate, and property managers should revise their maintenance plans accordingly. For example, in the South, thunderstorms can roll in and create temperature drops of 30 degrees in a matter of minutes. Heavy rain and humidity creates a breeding ground for mold. Sun damage can shorten the life of sealants and other roof products. Wind, rain and snow can cause leaks or other structural damage. Finally, local wildlife from squirrels and raccoons to termites and birds can use entry holes and take up residence in your building. Every new season brings unique challenges, so make sure you have a specialized maintenance plan in place every day of the year.
In general, knowing the age and condition of a roof can help you measure the urgency of roof maintenance and gauge imminent problems. But, arming yourself with these four roof upkeep tips can help you extend the life of a commercial roof and prevent minor problems from becoming major headaches for both you and your tenants.
If your commercial roof is in need of repair, contact Toledo Roof Repair TODAY! We aim to deliver unsurpassed workmanship and cost effective projects by our commitment to employing and supporting motivated, flexible, and focused teams. We understand the importance of our relationships and we continue to stay fair and honest in our dealings with clients, partners, employees, and vendors. Contact us TODAY for a FREE Estimate!
