Routine commercial roof maintenance can increase the lifespan of your roof by several years. A roof that is not maintained properly can become damaged. You can prolong the life of your commercial roof by being proactive in identifying potential problems and fixing them before they get worse.
Get Leaks Fixed Right Away
A commercial building owner should not ignore a leaky roof. This could lead to all kinds of damage to your home, including electrical and equipment damage. It could even cause your roof’s collapse. Contact your roofing contractor immediately if you notice that your commercial roof has begun to leak.
Get Your Roof Inspected Twice per Year
To identify potential roof problems, it is advisable that your commercial roof be inspected by a professional roofing contractor at least twice per year. Make sure your roof is inspected for any potential leaks, cracks or sagging. Roofers can inspect your roof for potential problems such as skylights, joints, vents, and skylights. To avoid roofing problems during winter, you will want to schedule an inspection for commercial roof maintenance.
Avoid Walking on the Roof
Your commercial roof should be used sparingly. Installing walk pads can stabilize your roof and prevent any damage. This will also extend the life of your roof.
After Bad Storms, Check Your Roof
Storms with high winds, and heavy snow can cause roof damage that may go unnoticed until it becomes a serious problem. After major storms, it is recommended to have a special inspection.
Make Sure Your Commercial Roof Is Clean
Another commercial roof maintenance tip is to keep your roof clean to avoid any buildup that could lead to algae growth, clogs or mold growth. These issues can reduce the lifespan of your roof. Regular cleaning and ensuring that all equipment is clean will help protect your investment over the long-term.
Prune Overhanging Tree Branches
Tree limbs falling on roofs can cause severe damage. It is best to prune trees regularly. This will not only prevent roof damage from falling limbs but also keep your roof free of fallen leaves and nuts. It will also prevent your roof from becoming algae-prone due to the lack of sunlight on your commercial roof.
Make Sure Your Roof Equipment Is Working Properly
A variety of problems can be caused by defective equipment on your commercial roof. To protect your roof and keep your family safe, avoid leaky air conditions, faulty wiring, and unsealed vents.
Clear the Snow During Winter Months
Leaks, ice dams and ice cycles can occur if heavy snow is left on commercial roofs for long periods. An experienced snow removal specialist should be able to maintain your roof during winter if you have snow accumulation.
Choose a Professional Commercial Roofer
You should ensure that your commercial roofing contractor has the appropriate training and certifications. To ensure that they are qualified and up to the task, you should thoroughly vet your roofing contractor.
Factors That Affect the Lifespan of Commercial Roofs
It is important that you are aware of factors that can reduce or extend the lifespan of a commercial roof.
- Installation: A faulty installation can reduce the roof’s lifespan so make sure you hire a qualified roofing professional to do the job.
- Slope: A flatter roof is more likely for water to pool on the surface. Water will pool on the roof if it doesn’t flow away. It will go to the lowest point until it evaporates. These low points are where leakage and other problems often occur.
- Ventilation: To prevent heat and moisture buildup, roofs require adequate ventilation. The roofing materials can be baked by the heat of summer and any moisture that has built up can cause rot and mold.
- Routine Maintenance: Routine maintenance and inspections can prevent minor problems from turning into major ones. If a roof is in good condition, it’s easy for people to neglect it. Neglecting to inspect your roof can lead to major roof problems in the future.
- Weather: High winds and hail can cause damage to your roof’s materials. Roofs eventually succumb to the elements.
Commercial Roofs’ Life Expectancy
The average commercial roof will last between 10 and 40 years if it is properly installed and maintained. The materials used and other factors can affect the life expectancy. Let’s take a look at common commercial roofing materials’ expected lifespans.
TPO (Thermoplastic Polyolefin)
TPO can last between 22 to 30 years. They are highly affordable, long-lasting, and energy efficient. They are also resistant to fire, chemicals and punctures.
EPDM (Ethylene propylene diene terpolymer)
EPDM can last between 10 to 15 years. It is less durable than other materials but it is also one of the most cost-effective. EPDM can absorb heat very easily, which can lead to higher utility costs.
Modified Bitumen
Modified bitumen can last between 10 to 20 years. Although multi-ply roofing materials can be difficult to install, they are very beneficial for your building’s structural integrity. This material absorbs heat quickly, just like EPDM.
Built-up Roofing
Built-up roofing can last for between 15 to 20 years. This style is also known as the Tar & Gravel Roof. It consists of piles of alternating layers made up of bitumen and gravel, or similar materials. These roofs can support a lot of weight, and permit for heavier traffic. However, you must ensure that the roof is stable enough to support the roofing materials.
PVC (Polyvinyl chloride)
PVC can last between 20 and 30 years. Another popular flat roofing material is PVC (Polyvinyl chloride). It is strong and durable. These roofs are made from a thermoplastic material with heat-welded seams that make them extremely strong. PVC can be a durable choice, but it can also be very expensive.
Get a Free Estimate
Having a good commercial roof maintenance plan involves having the right people working on the facilities. This means getting someone who knows what they are doing and can handle anything that comes their way. On top of this, it also involves knowing when to get someone in whether it is for routine maintenance or something more serious. That’s where we come in. Old Time Roofing provides a full range of commercial roofing services including re-roofs, inspections, repairs and maintenance. Contact us today.
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