Tips to Protect Your Business
Commercial Roof Maintenance
As a business owner, your commercial property is a valuable long-term asset and it’s essential to care for your building as much as you care for your inventory and customers. Unfortunately, the roof is often overlooked since it’s out of sight. To ensure the longevity of your building and protect your staff, equipment, and inventory, it’s crucial to prioritize ongoing maintenance. Ignoring your roof puts your business at risk for structural issues, water damage, lost energy efficiency, liabilities, etc. Follow these commercial roof maintenance tips to protect your business.
Tip 1: Know the Risks
While a roof should last upwards of 15 years, the extreme weather changes that are experienced in Northern Indiana can cause damages that should be immediately addressed. The snow, ice, and thawing throughout the winter can cause ice dams which can push your shingles up and allow water to seep underneath them. Spring rain, hail, and strong winds can cause dents, chipping, leaks, and falling debris to damage your roof. Intense heat and sun exposure in the summer can dry, crack, and warp your shingles. And falling leaves and branches in the autumn can clog your gutters and cause mold/mildew growth on your roof. Every season brings its own set of challenges that can put your roof at risk.
Tip 2: Commercial Roof Inspections
You can’t change the weather. So what can you do to protect your business’s roof?
Just like a residential roof, the roof of your business should be inspected twice a year. By performing inspections, problems caused by weather and aging can be caught early and repairs can be made to prevent more expensive, extensive repairs. If you choose to do a roof inspection on your own, here’s what you should look out for:
- Cracked, chipped, or torn shingles
- Exposed seams
- Gaps around roof penetrations
- Discoloration
- Leaking and/or damaged rooftop HVAC units
- Clogged, bent, and/or sagging gutters
- Standing water
However, accessing the roof and performing an inspection can be hazardous, especially in adverse weather conditions. Hiring a professional roofing contractor ensures not only your safety but also a thorough assessment of the roof, identifying problems that may go unnoticed otherwise.
Tip 3: Address Issues Early
Timely maintenance is the best approach to extend the life of your existing commercial roof system, as it can save you money that would otherwise be spent on costly reroofing. Promptly responding to roof problems is crucial to preventing minor issues from escalating into major concerns.
When you hire a professional roofing contractor, you can trust that they have the knowledge and expertise to work safely on the roof, evaluate different roof systems, and identify potential problem areas. They use appropriate materials for repairs, ensuring long-lasting solutions that uphold the quality of your roof.
Tip 4: Roof Problem Prevention
The best way to avoid costly repairs and roofing problems is through prevention. Being proactive with commercial roof maintenance involves taking various actions. Trimming back trees overhanging the roof reduces debris and potential damage from falling limbs. Limiting foot traffic on the roof promotes staff safety and minimizes roof damage. Placing walk mats around rooftop equipment can further protect the roof’s surface. Additionally, conducting regular inspections and maintenance on rooftop equipment, like HVAC systems, can prevent leaks caused by failing machinery.
Trust The Professionals For Your Commercial Roof Maintenance
Commercial roof maintenance is a critical aspect of preserving the value of your building and ensuring the safety of its occupants and contents. By knowing what to look out for, investing in regular roof inspections, addressing repairs promptly, and taking steps to prevent roofing issues, you can extend the life of your roof, avoid costly replacements, and have peace of mind knowing your business is protected.
We want you to focus on your business and let us take care of your roof. With nearly 80 years of roofing experience throughout the South Bend, Indiana area, competitive pricing, financing plans, and certifications from North America’s leading asphalt shingle manufacturer, we are well-equipped to handle all of your commercial roof maintenance needs. Contact us at ClaytonHoover.com/roofing or call 574-288-8630 to protect your business.
