Why Are Roof Inspections Important?
Consistent roof inspections are crucial for maintaining the integrity of your commercial or industrial roof. They offer financial benefits in two key ways:
- Extending Roof Life: Regular inspections help identify and repair small problems before they escalate into serious, costly damage.
- Cost Savings: By extending the service life of your existing roof system, you avoid the high costs associated with premature roof replacement. Proper care, given annually or semi-annually, can significantly extend the lifespan of your roof.
Challenges on Your Rooftop
Commercial and industrial rooftops face several challenges due to their constant exposure to the elements. Understanding these challenges can highlight the importance of regular inspections.
Environment:
Your roof is subjected to changing weather conditions 24/7, year after year. Here are some specific environmental challenges:
- Temperature: Daily temperature variations of fifty degrees or more can cause the roof to expand and contract, leading to stress and potential damage. Seasonal changes add further thermal movement and stress.
- UV Radiation: Ultraviolet light can cause significant damage to roofing materials, including fading, cracking, blistering, reduced elasticity, and surface degradation. Timely repairs or the application of a protective coating can extend your roof’s life.
- Weather: Your roof must withstand rain, snow, ice, hail, strong winds, and severe storms. Wind-blown debris and direct wind damage can harm your roof. Hail damage, whether severe or nearly invisible, can cause problems months later, often after the insurance claim period has expired. A roofing professional can help identify and address such damage.
Rooftop Activities:
Rooftops can range from relatively open spaces with minimal foot traffic to cluttered areas with frequent maintenance activities. Damage can occur from intense foot traffic, rooftop maintenance, or moving equipment across the roof.
Common Causes of Roof Leaks
Roof leaks can result from a variety of issues, depending on the type of roof you have:
- Asphalt or Modified Bitumen Roofs: These roofs are prone to splitting from thermal movement and blistering due to moisture.
- Membrane Roofs: Leaks often occur from punctures or cuts in the roof surface.
- Other Sources: Leaks can also result from failing caulk or sealant at penetrations, leaks in drain bowls, issues with rooftop equipment or A/C units, and failing mortar or masonry in adjacent walls. In some cases, the leak may not be related to the roof system but to adjacent structures such as windows, doors, siding, or drain lines.
What Is Involved in a Competent Roof Inspection?
A thorough roof inspection involves several steps:
- Inspecting the Underside of the Roof Deck: This initial step helps identify any existing leak locations inside the building, guiding the inspector to probable leak sources on the rooftop.
- Comprehensive Rooftop Inspection: The entire roof surface, edge details, gutters, rooftop penetrations, and equipment are inspected. Any deficiencies are noted, and the overall condition of the roof is evaluated to estimate the remaining roof life.
- Identifying and Repairing Problems: If leaks were noted during the interior inspection, the inspector will find and repair the problems.
- Reporting: A detailed written report with photos will be provided, outlining the findings and any recommended actions.
Cost of a Detailed Roof Inspection
The cost of a roof inspection varies depending on the building size, location, and rooftop details. Your roofing professional should provide a detailed proposal for any required work.
Conclusion
When was the last time your roof had a detailed inspection? Regular inspections, whether done by yourself, your staff, or a professional, are a minimal investment that can pay significant dividends in prevented damage and extended roof life.
How May We Be of Service to You?
M&M Roofing has extensive experience managing commercial and industrial roofs. Let us handle your rooftop needs so you can focus on your business!
For expert commercial roof inspections, contact M&M Roofing today.
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