Keeping up with regular maintenance is an excellent way to identify and address small problems before they get out of hand. It prevents costly repairs, reduces utility bills, and protects the structural integrity of a commercial and residential roof.
It also ensures that any issues do not affect the safety of building occupants. It may be as simple as a ceiling leak that can cause interior damage or an accident from falling debris.
Inspect the Roof
Residential roofing solutions refer to the materials and techniques used to cover and protect the roof of a house or other residential building. Preventative maintenance can minimize damage, but some freak accidents or normal wear and tear cannot be avoided. The best way to keep track of any issues is to inspect the roof regularly. It can be done from the ground with binoculars or by walking the length of the residential building.
A thorough inspection should include the following items:
Check for clogged drains, moss, and watermarks that indicate a moisture buildup.
Look for soft spots on the roof and rot or mold that could lead to structural damage, leaks, and other roofing issues. Also, check for displaced or loose shingles. Finally, ensure the roof is debris-free, including twigs, branches, leaves, and bird droppings. On flat commercial roofs, these can add a lot of extra pressure that will shorten the life of the membrane.
Clean the Roof
Cleansing the roof and gutters regularly prevents the accumulation of dirt, debris, leaves, and other organic materials that foster moss and mildew. Clogged drains can also cause leaks and lead to rot. In addition, unchecked moss growth can void some roof warranties and create structural problems.
It is important to include cleaning the gutters and downspouts twice a year (in the spring and fall) as a part of a commercial roofing maintenance program. Ensure the channels are debris-free, and check the downspouts for proper drainage. It is important to note that poorly functioning downspouts can account for up to 90% of moisture issues in basements and crawl spaces.
Additionally, the flashings that seal around chimneys, vents, and skylights should be inspected for cracks or rust. These areas are particularly susceptible to water infiltration, especially after heavy rains. Replacing or resealing these areas is typically a minor repair. Finally, any tree limbs hanging over the roof should be trimmed to minimize the risk of falling debris during a storm.
Repair Debris
The aftermath of severe weather can leave behind debris damaging roofing materials. Shards of glass, tree branches, or other items blown onto the roof from heavy wind can scratch or gouge the surface and cause leaks. In addition, weakened or missing shingles can lead to further problems and require replacement.
In addition, hailstorms can leave dents and punctures in the roof. During an inspection, contractors will look for impact-resistant roofing materials. They will also check that the gutters and the seal around chimneys, vents, and skylights are in good condition.
Clogged gutters or a broken seal around a skylight could result in water buildup and potential leaks. Wet spots in the attic or ceiling, mold and mildew, dark streaks on the top, and a musty odor are signs that a roof leak is present and needs to be repaired. A contractor will also look at roof flashing conditions to ensure tight, deterioration-free seams.
Repair Leaks
As your roof ages, it’s more likely to develop leaks. This is because aging causes the materials to shift and move, which increases the likelihood of cracks or missing shingles. This isn’t necessarily a problem, but it does make catching and repairing issues that would otherwise go unnoticed much more critical.
Leaks on the roof can cause unsightly water stains on interior ceilings and walls. These stains can also cause mold and mildew to form. This is why regular inspections and prompt repair of minor problems are important.
It can also help extend the roof’s life by detecting and repairing minor damage before it becomes major. Keeping up with regular maintenance can also ensure that your warranty stays valid. This is important as many promises have stipulations that require routine inspections and timely repairs to qualify for coverage.