Maintenance Tips from Professional Commercial Roof Installers

As a business owner, you want to protect your assets. This is true whether you have a restaurant or a retail shop. A big part of your protection comes down to the condition of your commercial roof. A well-maintained roof ensures the safety of your employees and products. It even upholds the overall aesthetic appeal of your property so that customers can feel completely comfortable in the space.

Your commercial building’s roof is a testament to your commitment to excellence and professionalism. Through regular maintenance tasks, you can keep your roof and, thus, your business in impeccable shape. Let’s share some knowledge from commercial roof installers about what it takes to navigate the intricacies of roof maintenance.

Get leaks fixed as soon as possible.

A leaky roof can lead to significant damage to your building’s structure. This includes your ceilings, walls, insulation, and electrical systems. You could even experience damage to your furniture, electronics, and business assets. Not only that, but your carpets won’t be safe from unsightly stains either. Essentially, the longer you wait, the more extensive the damage can become. Should the moisture from your leaks continue to build, you can expect your property to become an ideal environment for the growth of mold and mildew. This will not serve your business well.

So, before you have to hire a commercial roof installer for a full-scale replacement, contact them about repairs. Based on their inspection of the condition of your roof, your roofer will come up with a plan. This might involve replacing damaged shingles, sealing cracks, or repairing flashing.

Trim overhanging tree branches.

In the event of a storm with heavy rain and high winds, overhanging tree branches pose a great risk. Their own weight could even be what makes them collapse. When tree branches fall on your roof, they can cause severe damage to your shingles, and perhaps even the underlying structure. By trimming the branches, you prevent this unwanted contact. You won’t have to deal with the constant abrasion that can wear down the protective layer of your roofing materials.

Check for visible damage after storms.

Even the best roofing materials can be impacted by hailstorms. For that reason, it is important that, following a harsh weather incident, you take a look at how your roof made out. There may be damage that you can clearly see, but there could also be hidden damage. A commercial roof installer has the specialized tools to determine whether any hidden damage needs to be promptly addressed.

If you need to file an insurance claim for storm-related roof damage, make sure to get documentation. Take photos and videos of your roof to share with your provider so that they can expedite the process. Once an insurance adjuster has assessed your documentation, they will provide you with an estimate for your repairs or replacement with your roofing contractor.

Keep your roof clean and snow-free.

Did you know that a thick layer of winter snow on your roof can act as an insulating barrier? This means that there is increased heat loss, and proper ventilation is prevented. The excessive weight of snow on your roof can also put stress on the structure. Bending, sagging, or even collapse may occur.

If you plan on combatting this by removing the snow on your own, commercial roof installers suggest using a long-handled broom or a roof rake. But make sure that you are prioritizing safety, given that this can be a challenging task. Hire a professional with the proper equipment if need be so that you don’t get stuck with significant moisture buildup or ice dams.

Limit foot traffic on your roof.

Roofs are not designed to support frequent foot traffic. Commercial roof installers find that, by walking on your roof, you can put stress on the materials and potentially damage them. The weight and impact of your footsteps reduce the lifespan of your shingles by potentially cracking or dislodging them. On top of that, walking on roofs can be hazardous if you are not trained to do so. You could slip and fall, hurting yourself and damaging other components of your roof in the process.

Unclog gutters and drains regularly.

The role of your gutters and drains is to channel rainwater and melted snow away from your roof. But when gutters are clogged with debris, such as leaves and twigs, water cannot flow freely. This results in your drainage system overflowing and then water damage, caused by stagnant water seeping under the roofing materials. When your roof has a prolonged presence of water, its components can warp and deteriorate.

One of the best pieces of advice that commercial roof installers can give is to regularly clear your gutters and drains. Be proactive about preventing water backups. It might seem like a minor task, but it can protect the entire structure of your business’s building and help you avoid costly repairs.

Schedule inspections with commercial roof installers.

Not every problem with your commercial roof is going to be something that the untrained eye can see. Professional roofers, though, are able to use their experience and tools to identify and address problems early on. They can spot signs of wear and tear, along with other issues that could impact your roof’s durability and longevity. Further, in order to remain valid, many roofing warranties require regular inspections and maintenance. Chat with your commercial roof installer about that, and make sure to get on their schedule if you aren’t already.

Commercial roofs are complex systems that require expertise and adherence to strict industry standards. By choosing a reputable commercial roof installer, you can expect all of your roofing needs to be handled efficiently. They will bring you a wealth of knowledge and specialized skills to ensure your building is protected. Just make sure to do your due diligence to find the right one, whether you are in Austin, Texas or Denver, Colorado!