5 Commercial Roof Maintenance Tips
Tips to Extend the Life of a Commercial Roof:
Roofs are essential to any commercial property. They protect your building from the weather and keep it safe from rot, mold, and other issues.
However, if your roof is old and needs a replacement, it can cost you a lot of money.
1. Keep It Clean
One of the best ways to extend the lifespan of commercial roofing Seattle is to keep it clean. This will help prevent a buildup of debris that can lead to clogs, algae, and mold growth.
A dirty roof can also cause drainage issues and reduce energy efficiency. Therefore, you should invest in professional cleaning to ensure your roof performs as it should and protects your building.
In addition, a clean commercial roof can help reduce the surface temperature, which helps deflect the heat and increase your facility’s energy efficiency. This will save you money on your energy bills!
2. Limit Debris
Debris on your roof isn’t just a nuisance but can also be hazardous. The biggest hazard is the loose items that can fall on you, your colleagues or anyone else that gets too close. The best way to mitigate the hazards is to clear your roof out regularly. Even something as simple as sweeping the rooftop in the morning can help keep your crew safe and your property clean and dry for the rest of the day.
The best way to clear your roof is to pick a day with clear skies, minimal wind, and moderate temperatures. The most important part is ensuring your workers have the proper safety gear, including high-visibility goggles, gloves, and hard hats. The other important step is to pick the right roofing company for the job, which will be more apt to provide the best quality materials and workmanship.
3. Seal Flashings
Flashings are a critical part of your commercial roof. They prevent water from causing damage to any structures on your roof, including chimneys, dormers, skylights, and vents.
They also make your roof more aesthetically pleasing. When you have the right type of flashing, your roof will look more polished and more suited to your property.
Depending on your needs, you might need various types of flashing sealant. Some popular choices include polyurethane and butyl.
While these options are great, they may not last as long as other sealants in your local home improvement store or online. They’ll wear down faster in places with harsh weather than in less extreme areas.
4. Ventilate
One of the essential things you can do to increase the life of your business roof is to keep it properly ventilated. This decreases the chance of mold formation and assists your commercial roof in shedding stored moisture during warm seasons while preventing it from becoming brittle during colder ones.
Ventilation is essential for various buildings, from homes to commercial warehouses and factory stores. It also reduces leaks, which can cost businesses money in terms of repair and replacement costs.
5. Avoid Drain Pipe Discharge
While many people may consider a roof just the top waterproofing layer, many other critical components of your commercial roof system exist.
Water damage to your roof, walls, and foundation can occur due to drain pipe discharge. This is because the pipes are frequently hidden deep within your structure.
Fortunately, several options are available to you that will help prevent this from occurring. One option is to have your existing drains inspected and lined with epoxy pipe liners. This will help your gutters last longer and prevent further damage.
Commercial Roof Maintenance
FAQs
How often should I clean my commercial roof to extend its lifespan?
Regular cleaning is essential to extend the lifespan of your commercial roof. It is recommended to schedule a professional cleaning at least once or twice a year, depending on your location and the amount of debris accumulating. More frequent cleaning may be necessary if your roof is prone to heavy debris buildup or if your property is surrounded by trees or other sources of debris.
What is the importance of sealing flashings on my commercial roof?
Sealing flashings is crucial to prevent water from causing damage to structures on your roof, such as chimneys, dormers, skylights, and vents. Properly sealed flashings also contribute to the overall aesthetic of your roof and help maintain its integrity by preventing water infiltration, which can lead to costly repairs or replacements.
How can proper ventilation extend the lifespan of my commercial roof?
Proper ventilation helps decrease the chances of mold formation, assists your commercial roof in shedding stored moisture during warm seasons, and prevents it from becoming brittle during colder ones. Ventilation is essential for various buildings, as it reduces leaks that can lead to costly repairs and replacements.
How can I avoid drain pipe discharge damage to my commercial roof?
To avoid water damage from drain pipe discharge, have your existing drains inspected and lined with epoxy pipe liners. This will help your gutters last longer and prevent further damage to your roof, walls, and foundation caused by hidden drain pipes.
How do I choose the right roofing company to maintain and extend the lifespan of my commercial roof?
When selecting a roofing company, consider their experience, reputation, and the quality of materials and workmanship they provide. A reliable and experienced roofing company will be more likely to use the best quality materials and perform proper maintenance, helping you extend the lifespan of your commercial roof.
