Having a new roof installed on your commercial building is quite expensive, so naturally, you want your current roof to last as long as possible. This isn’t always easy since your roof is one of the more vulnerable parts of your building. It can be damaged by tornadoes or hurricanes or just the wear and tear of normal weather, such as rain and snow. However, there are some steps you can take to try to make your roof last longer. So, let’s take a look at these steps.
Have Your Roof Inspected Regularly
The most important step you can take to extend the life of your commercial roof is to have it inspected regularly. You should have the interior of the roof and any walls or ceilings attached to the roof inspected as well. This is important because you can’t see all of the problems your roof may have by simply inspecting the outside of the roof.
It’s best to have your roof inspected twice a year, preferably in the spring and fall. Doing this will allow you to promptly fix any problems that are found before more extensive damage occurs. Make sure inspection is done by a licensed professional because a poor inspection could miss important details and allow any damage to the roof to become worse.
Remove Debris
Another step you can take to increase the longevity of your roof is to remove any debris from your roof. Allowing debris to build up on your roof can lead to mold and water damage which can cause damage to your roof’s protective coating.
It’s also important to remove any debris from your gutters. Debris such as leaves, trash, and mud can accumulate, leading to flooding and excess weight. This can cause damage to the roof and siding as well as exceed the ability of the brackets to support the gutters. This can cause them to tear free, causing damage to the structure itself.
Trim Nearby Trees
Tree branches should never be left overhanging your roof. Wind can cause these branches to grind against your roof, leading to scrapes and punctures in the material. In a storm situation, these branches may break free from the tree and fall onto the roof, causing severe damage.
Ensure Appropriate Ventilation Is in Place
Roof ventilation is a critical part of extending your roof life. Proper ventilation will prevent excess heat buildup, protect it against extreme changes in temperature, and prevent moisture buildup.
During the warm summer months, roof ventilation will circulate air to keep your roof from critical overheating, and during the cooler months, the circulation will prevent warm air carrying moisture from making it up into the roof membrane.
Final Thoughts
Your commercial roof is a major investment, and extending its life can save you a considerable amount of time and money. Luckily, taking these steps can go a long way to ensuring your roof meets or even exceeds its expected service cycle.
Contact Us
If your commercial roof is in need of repair or replacement, contact North Shore Roofing. Our professional roofers have more than thirty years of roofing experience and are ready to help you. Call us at (978) 977-3816 and connect with us on Facebook.
