The roof is one of the most overlooked parts of the structure until it is obvious that damage has started to occur. By preventing damage through preventative roofing means you will also save money and ensure safety. Preventative roofing maintenance has value whether you are managing your home or overseeing a commercial building.
The importance of preventative maintenance
A roof earns its keep by protecting your structure from the day to day elements of rain, wind, and sunlight. The constant onslaught of the elements will obviously cause wear and tear over time. Small problems, if left unattended, can escalate into larger repair issues and with that larger repair bills. Therefore, it is always wise to invest in preventative roof maintenance.
Increases Roof Lifespan
All roofs have a life span. But if you care for it properly, you can prolong those years.
Halts premature damage
Detecting cracks, leaks, and missing shingles through inspections catches issues before they turn into problems.
Prevents moisture build up
Aggregated debris and clogged drains lead to pooling water. Routine maintenance cleaning improves drainage, which prevents moisture damage.
Avoids structural problems
Unresolved problems on the roof influence the support system of the home. Preventive measures save the building structure.
Saves money long term
Fixing minor issues is always cheaper than repairing major damage.
Minimizes repair bills
Maintenance helps keep repairs small and therefore affordable.
Prevents emergency costs
Planned inspections and procedures prevent you from needing to call emergency services that could cost a bundle.
Saves interior finishes
Keeping a roof in good shape allows it to continue to protect floors, walls, and ceilings from leaks.
The benefits for commercial buildings
Commercial roof preventative maintenance is important for the operations of your business. It protects your assets, employees, and clients all under one roof.
Improved energy efficiency
A roof that is functioning well can help control internal temperatures. It reduces heating and cooling costs.
Keeps the insulation dry
Wet insulation is ineffective insulation! In addition, scheduled inspections can address the problems of wet insulation before they happen!
Reduced air leaks
Proper maintenance that seals small gaps can eliminate energy waste.
Reduced utility bills
Clean and well-maintained roofs waste less energy and help bring down monthly energy bills.
Improved safety and compliance
In order to meet safety and building standards, businesses must comply to federal, state, and local standards. Preventative maintenance enables your business to comply with those standards.
Reduced accidents
Pre-maintenance roofing inspections enable business owners to find loose materials, ties, and components that could fall and seriously harm employees.
Enhanced insurance claims
Insurance companies could deny claims if roofs appear to have deteriorated with ongoing maintenance obligations.
In compliance with building codes
Routine roof maintenance and service is required to maintain the owner's obligation to comply with city, regional, and national building codes.
Frequent Maintenance Tasks
Maintenance should follow a defined schedule. This includes preventative maintenance tasks that will identify and correct small problems earlier on.
Routine Roof Checks
Detect problems early
You should always schedule a couple of roof checks or inspections at least twice per year. This way it allows you to detect problems early on, before they develop into larger issues.
Inspect after storms
Storms can damage the roof. By inspecting right after, you are less likely to miss issues entirely.
Cleaning and Debris Removal
Remove debris from the roof
Leaves and debris, like dirt build-up, will block drains and block moisture and drainage. Identify this debris early, and keep the roof clean and dry.
Cleaning the gutters and downspouts
You should check and clean gutters and downspouts regularly in order to maximize water movement off of your roof as fast as possible.
Sealant and flashing repairs
Identify and stop water leaks
Damaged sealant or flashing allows water to penetrate the roof. By identifying these problems and repairing them, you will keep the roofing system dry.
Flashing at the edge of roof
Water can enter around the edges of a roof. When you identify flashing, seal it's tight around the edge of the roof, and no flashing is missing.
Selecting a Maintenance Plan
You can perform most standard inspections yourself, but the benefit of a maintenance plan is that it is more comprehensive. Professionals know what to look for and how to address it.
Get expert opinions
Professional roofers know what indicators of deterioration to look for and how to fix it.
Get factual reports
Professionals can follow the deterioration and report on your roofing condition and any maintenance needed.
Get peace of mind
An expert maintaining your roof regularly will give you fewer surprises and less costly repairs.
To End It
Preventative roof maintenance may seem like an unnecessary cost; however, preventative maintenance saves money, ensures safety, and extends the life of your roof. Regardless of whether it is a private home or a commercial building, the need for preventative maintenance and general roof care for your investment is absolutely beneficial. Always schedule preventative maintenance for your roof for your investment.