Most commercial buildings use a flat roofing system, and these are great for storage and easy maintenance. But this doesn’t mean that they don’t need maintenance. Though much easier to access and work on, they still require just as much attention as any other roofing system.
It is critical to have a professional come out to inspect your roof at least semi-annually. With a good maintenance regimen, your flat roof can enjoy a service life of 25 years or more. Here are a few ways you can help your roof to last its longest.
Pay Attention for Damage
Luckily, this can be easier to keep an eye out for than with sloped roofs due to the easier access. First, keep an eye out for puddling, which can lead to weight imbalance, algae growth, and damage to waterproof membranes.
Another common issue is cracking. Often this occurs from excessive weight being placed on the roof and may even be associated with the former problem. Lastly, watch out for loose fasteners. These devices anchor your roofing system to the building. If you see any of these problems, it is important to contact a professional roofer immediately to have the issue inspected and repaired quickly.
Maintain Your Drainage System
Your roof’s drainage system is crucial for preventing puddling on your roof. So, if you do see any puddling, then there is a high chance your drainage system is clogged. It is a good idea to prevent this issue by having your drainage system regularly cleaned.
If your drains seem to be regularly clogging, then it may be time to have a new drainage system installed. Often older buildings are updated without properly adjusting existing systems.
Clean Regularly
Flat roofs can easily collect debris that would simply slide right off a slanted roof. It is important to clean this debris off, so it is not walked over, scratching your roof and potentially causing damage.
This should be done at least twice a year. Often the best time is before and after every winter. This is a fairly easy job that can be done with a broom and a little caution.
Quickly Solve Leaks
We have all seen commercial buildings break out the buckets as soon as the rains start. Though this may seem easier than addressing the cause of the leak, it is not a good idea.
When water makes its way into a roofing system, it can cause damage to the structure and lead to mold growth. This can cause your building to require far more costly repairs and become completely uninhabitable.
Instead, it is important to regularly inspect your building for leaks and have them solved as soon as they form. With regular inspections and maintenance, these are far less likely to form in the first place.
Final Thoughts
A well-maintained flat roof is not only good for your building’s comfort and appearance but your wallet as well. With a healthy maintenance regimen, your building’s flat roof will last much longer and require fewer repairs in the first place.
Contact Us
For high-quality commercial flat roof inspection and maintenance, contact North Shore Roofing. Our team of professional roofers have more than thirty years of experience with all aspect of roof maintenance and are ready to help you today. Call us at (978) 977-3816 and connect with us on Facebook.
