Has your business been closed or running at reduced capacity since the beginning of the pandemic? It's true that the health of your roof may not have been top priority, but as you slowly reopen back to the public, it should be!
Follow this simple checklist to ensure your roof is in optimal condition, so you can avoid expensive flat roof repair costs down the road.
4 Flat Roof Maintenance Tips
1) Inspect From the Inside Out
Start inside the building, looking for evidence of leaks, such as stained ceiling tiles or pooled water. Next, head up to the roof to check for punctures or other signs of potential leaks, making sure to check all seams and penetrations for damage.
Also, ensure any rooftop equipment (HVAC system, etc) is attached properly to limit damage to your roof—ideally, equipment should be mounted on a platform of some kind. A flat roof replacement can be expensive, so if you do find damage, fix it ASAP with the help of a professional.
2) Clear Off Debris
Any accumulation of sticks, branches, leaves, or other debris will need to be removed, especially if it’s been a while since you last cleaned it off.
Debris like branches and twigs can cause punctures, and over time, even accumulated leaves and other organic material can retain moisture and encourage water pooling, which can lead to leaks.
Get in the habit of regularly checking your roof for debris, especially during storm season: strong winds can throw debris onto your roof, so check after each storm and clear it off right away.
Don’t forget to trim the trees that surround your roof. Any trees that are close to the building can increase the overall risk of damage if they are not kept trimmed back. Limbs or leaves can fall onto your roof, and even increased shade can cause dampness to stick around longer, increasing the potential for damage.
3) Clean Out Gutters and Downspouts
Pay particular attention to gutters and downspouts, as you clean off your roof. It’s important to keep them clear of debris so rainwater can drain sufficiently, preventing water pooling that can cause leaks and damage.
As you inspect your roof, look for ponding water. Ponding water can mean that elements of your drainage system are clogged or that your roof needs leveling so water can flow to the drainage system properly.
4) Schedule an Inspection
Neglect is one of the top reasons flat roofs need to be replaced, so the best way to ensure its long life is to invest in routine flat roof maintenance and inspection.
Make it a habit to regularly assess your roof’s condition, fixing damage and leaks before they become bigger problems. In addition, have a professional inspect your roof twice per year—ideally in the spring and fall.
Many building owners postponed their spring inspection in 2020 due to lockdowns or working with a skeleton crew — if that’s you, and you haven’t rescheduled yet, now is the time to make that phone call.
Flat Roof Repairs Near You
If you need to schedule a flat roof inspection or repair, contact us today! We'll take care of your roofing needs, so you can focus on getting back to business.
