Maintenance Strategies: Flat Roof Management Best Practices
Thanks to their low slope, commercial roofs are notoriously leak-prone. However, with routine maintenance and proper management, leaks can be prevented.
Following these commercial roof management best practices can help keep your flat roof in good condition:
Schedule a Roof Inspection At Least Twice a Year
Through routine inspections, contractors can detect leaks and conduct roof repair before moisture damage or roofing issues affect the other parts of your building. As a rule of thumb, your roof should be inspected at least twice a year. Extreme temperatures can be harsh on your exterior, which is why the National Roofing Contractors Association recommends scheduling a roof inspection after winter and summer.
Keep a Roofing File
A roofing file is a document that helps you keep track of your commercial roof’s maintenance. It should include:
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The date of the roof installation
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The manufacturer of the roofing materials (It’s best to stick to one brand to ensure the roof replacement is just as durable as your old roof)
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Warranty info
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Maintenance records and photos and notes made by the previous contractor
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Changes or upgrades to the roofing components
Here’s a pro-tip: While some prefer keeping all of their roofing documents in a physical folder, it’s more practical to digitize your roofing file. Instead of having to manually update and sort through your roofing file, software programs will do it for you.
Limit Access to the Rooftop
Wear and tear can shorten your roof’s lifespan, which is why it’s highly recommended that building managers limit access to the rooftop. Make sure to craft a building policy outlining the procedures on how personnel can get access to the rooftop and include a clause in tenants’ lease regarding their access to the rooftop. If a tenant wants to access the rooftop, the purpose and the duration of their visit should be logged in a notebook.
Important note: You should never underestimate the damage done by a minor roof leak. Left unattended, moisture damage can easily affect other parts of the building.
The Great American Roofing Company offers a wide range of professional roofing services. To request a free quote, call us at (201) 825-2955 or fill out this form.