All too often, we see commercial and industrial roofs unnecessarily fail over time due to a poor preventive maintenance plan. A strong maintenance plan can help you avoid unwanted roof damage, protect your bottom line, and give your roof a longer life.
Here are 10 tips for keeping your commercial roofing system in optimal condition!
1. Inspect Your Roof Regularly
Having your roof routinely inspected by a certified commercial roof inspector is the first step to keeping your roofing system in good condition.
A proper roof inspection requires many steps and the use of special equipment to look for signs of damage, so call on the certified professionals at Quality Trusted Commercial Construction & Roofing (Qt) to evaluate your roof’s health.
2. Keep the Roof Clean
The Minnesota seasons bring all sorts of unwanted weight and debris to your roof, from leaves in the fall to snow and ice in the winter. Not only can heavy snow and wet leaves add unsafe weight to your roof, but regular dirt and grime build-up can also deteriorate the roof faster than normal.
For professional snow removal and roof cleaning, the experts at Qt clear out any unwanted debris safely and efficiently.
3. Make Repairs as Necessary
Don’t wait to have any damages or leaks inspected and repaired. The longer you wait, the more likely the damages will get worse and the more expensive the repairs could be in the long run.
Whether any roof damages were discovered by an inspector or you noticed them yourself, don’t hesitate to have a professional roofing repair company fix your roof and get it working like new.
4. Prep Your Roof for the Seasons
As the seasons change, it's essential to give your roof the attention it deserves. Your roof is your building’s first line of defense against the elements, and proper maintenance can help extend its lifespan and prevent costly repairs.
One crucial step in this maintenance routine is preparing your roof for the upcoming seasons, especially the colder ones.
Why Winterize Your Roof?
Winterizing your roof is a vital step, especially before the winter months. This process involves taking specific measures to protect your roof from the unique challenges posed by cold weather.
One of the primary concerns during winter is the formation of ice dams.
The Dangers of Ice Dams
Ice dams occur when snow accumulates on the roof, melts due to heat escaping from the interior of your home, and then refreezes at the roof's edge. This cycle can create a barrier of ice that prevents proper water drainage.
As a result, water can back up under shingles, seep into your home, and cause significant damage to your roof and interior.
Steps to Winterize Your Roof
Because the freeze/thaw cycle of Minnesota can have a negative impact on commercial roofing systems, prep work needs to be done to ensure your roofing system holds up against the winter weather.
With Qt, your roof can last decades with the proper maintenance and care!
- Clean Your Gutters: Clogged gutters can contribute to ice dam formation. Remove leaves, debris, and any blockages to ensure proper water flow.
- Inspect Your Attic: Proper attic insulation and ventilation are essential for preventing ice dams. Ensure your attic is adequately insulated to prevent heat from escaping and maintain proper ventilation to keep the roof's temperature consistent.
- Seal Gaps and Cracks: Check your roof for any gaps or cracks that may allow warm air to escape. Seal these openings to maintain a consistent roof temperature.
- Trim Overhanging Branches: Overhanging branches can deposit snow and ice onto your roof. Trim back branches to prevent this from happening.
- Install Ice and Water Shield: Consider installing an ice and water shield membrane along the eaves of your roof. This added layer of protection can help prevent water intrusion.
- Regular Inspections: Contact your trusted roofing company to perform regular visual inspections of your roof during the winter months to monitor for any ice dam formation. If you notice the beginning of an ice dam, address it promptly.
5. Keep Detailed Records
Building managers can change over time, and buildings can change hands as well. This means building maintenance information can fall through the cracks.
We suggest you create a historical record and keep it in a safe place that can be easily accessed. The record should include the original roof plan, warranty documentation, repair records, and equipment installation.
6. Get an Infrared Moisture Scan
Commercial roofs play a critical role in safeguarding your business assets and maintaining the structural integrity of your facility. However, many roof issues, such as moisture infiltration and insulation degradation, are often hidden beneath the surface and go unnoticed until they become major problems.
This is where an Infrared Moisture Scan becomes invaluable. This scan identifies areas of moisture and wet insulation based on their retained heat. The ability to pinpoint problem areas without invasive testing or costly core samples minimizes disruption and allows for more accurate repair or replacement bids.
This proactive approach not only saves you time and money but also ensures the longevity and performance of your commercial roof, providing peace of mind for your business operations.
7. Trim Nearby Trees
Overhanging branches can pose a significant risk to your roof, especially during storms or high winds. Leaves, twigs, and falling branches can clog gutters and downspouts, leading to water accumulation and potential roof damage. It also gives wildlife an easier way to access your home for shelter.
Regular tree trimming helps reduce these risks, preventing debris buildup, and minimizing the chances of costly repairs or roof replacements in the future. It's a simple yet effective way to protect the longevity and performance of your commercial roof.
8. Seal Mechanical Roof Penetrations
Sealing mechanical roof penetrations is a crucial component of preventive maintenance for commercial roofs. These penetrations, such as vents, pipes, and HVAC units, create openings in the roofing system that, if not properly sealed, can become entry points for moisture and leaks over time.
By proactively sealing these penetrations, you create a watertight barrier that helps protect your roof from potential damage, extends its lifespan, and ensures the integrity of your commercial building.
Regularly addressing these small issues as part of a comprehensive maintenance plan can prevent costly repairs and disruptions down the road, ultimately saving you time and money.
9. Add a Roof Coating
Adding a roof coating to your commercial roof as part of preventive maintenance is a smart investment that can significantly enhance its durability and lifespan. At Qt, our roof coating systems are particularly effective for metal roofs, creating a seamless barrier that protects against water intrusion and the elements.
Roof coatings help commercial property owners can experience remarkable improvements in roof performance, including added warranties for older systems, protection against further deterioration, and an extended roof life.
Whether your roof is new or old, a metal roof coating can provide the extra layer of seamless protection it needs to withstand the test of time.
10. Consider Walk Pad Installation
Walk pads serve as protective layers that distribute weight and reduce foot traffic impact on your roof's membrane. By installing walk pads strategically, you can safeguard your roofing system from potential damage caused by maintenance personnel, equipment, or foot traffic.
This simple addition can significantly extend the lifespan of your commercial roof, minimize the risk of punctures, and help maintain its integrity, ultimately saving you money on costly repairs or premature replacements.
Contact Qt for Commercial Roofing Near the Twin Cities
When it comes to commercial roof maintenance, it’s best to always take a proactive approach. Remember, the best defense is a good offense. To learn more about our preventive maintenance plans for commercial and industrial roofs, contact us at 763-535-5831 today.