Having a high quality roof installed on your facility is, figuratively, only the tip of the iceberg when it comes to commercial roofing. This is not a ‘set it and forget it’ scenario – the reality is that having scheduled inspections (and maintenance as needed) performed on your roof are as critical to the long-term durability of the roof system as they are to your car. In fact, most manufacturers - including CertainTeed - have scheduled inspections as a requirement in upholding a roof system warranty.
Establishing a regular roof inspection and maintenance program is the responsibility of the building owner. Such a program can provide short-term and long-term benefits. Consistent, seasonal inspections help keep small problems (such as a clogged drain) from becoming large problems (such as a roof that collapses from excess water weight). And, simply put, properly maintained roofs last longer, stretching your investment dollars that much further.
Roofs should be inspected at least twice yearly, in the spring and fall. Additionally, all roofs should be inspected after any severe weather or storms. The roofing contractor who installed the roof membrane, in conjunction with the building owner’s maintenance personnel, should perform these inspections. Inspections consist of a visual assessment of the critical elements of a roof system. They can typically be completed within an hour or two.
While a roofing contractor authorized by your manufacturer should perform repairs and maintenance work, the owner can help maintain the roof by ensuring that minor clean-up and maintenance procedures are performed (e.g., regular checking and cleaning of debris from roof and around drains). However, it is very important to remember that one of the keys to avoiding roof damage is limiting access to the roof, so allow only authorized personnel on the roof who understand good roof access procedures and precautions. Additionally, foot traffic should not be permitted on the roof in very hot or very cold weather, as this will increase the risk of roof damage.
If the professional roofing company who installed your roof is not available, it is highly recommended that you use a company who is familiar with the roofing manufacturer’s installation instructions, experienced in performing roof inspections and maintenance, and possesses professional credentials from the manufacturer. If repairs are needed, do not perform them on your own. In the event of an emergency condition which requires immediate repair to avoid damage to the building or its contents, a building owner should have a qualified roofer make essential temporary repairs. Unapproved repairs may void your roof system warranty, so be sure to read and understand your warranty.
If you follow these guidelines you will rarely encounter unpleasant roofing surprises, and be well on your way to having a roof system that performs at an optimum level. Should you have any questions about maintaining your roof, or require information on your roofing system warranty, be sure to contact the installing contractor and/or the manufacturer of your roofing system.
