19 Apr Tips For Prolonging The Lifespan Of A Commercial Building Roof

Tips For Prolonging The Lifespan Of A Commercial Building Roof

A commercial roof can last for years if it’s cared for properly. However, some factors can drastically cut that life span.

Keep It Clean

A clean commercial building roof is one of the most overlooked aspects of a property. It’s the part that doesn’t get the same attention as a clean parking lot or sparkling sidewalks, but it’s just as important to a commercial property owner and their employees. Keeping your commercial roof clean will help extend its lifespan, as well as the appearance of the building. It will also help prevent clogs, algae or mold growth that can shorten your roof’s life span and reduce its performance. It’s also important to keep debris off your roof after storms. Loose materials like twigs and leaves can cause ponding or standing water, which can promote algae growth.

Avoid Leaks

One of the best ways to extend the lifespan of a commercial building roof is by avoiding leaks. Even if you’ve done everything else right and had your roof installed with the best materials, water can still damage the structure if it finds its way in through a crack or hole. It’s easy to let something like this go unnoticed, but it’s important to take the time to perform regular inspections and walk the roof to identify any potential issues that may arise. Doing so can help prevent a major repair and save money in the long run.

Maintain The Pitch

The pitch of a roof is important not only to the aesthetics of the building but also to its performance. A steep roof is capable of removing rainwater and snow more quickly than a flat roof, which is the reason it typically lasts longer and needs less maintenance. The roofing materials used in the construction also play a big role in determining the longevity of your commercial roof. A sturdier material can withstand the wear and tear that a busy business will put its roof through. The best way to maintain your commercial roof is to inspect it regularly and spot any problems before they become a catastrophe. If you can locate and fix a problem before it becomes worse, you can save yourself the headache of replacing the entire structure. Keeping your gutters clean is another way to extend the life of your commercial roof. The more you can keep your gutters and downpipes clear of debris, the less you will have to worry about leaks.

Don’t Neglect The Gutters

Gutters are a key component of a roof system. They catch water as it falls off the roof, direct it to appropriate areas around the property and keep it from causing damage. A clogged gutter can cause water to pool, which can lead to structural issues like shifting in the foundation, erosion in the soil, flooding in the basement and cracks in the walls. In addition, a clogged gutter can attract pests. The leaves and twigs in a clogged gutter can create a humid and inviting environment for insects such as mosquitoes, rodents, birds, ants and other pests to breed. A clogged gutter also causes rainwater to stagnate, which can trigger mold. Not only is this a nuisance, but it can also affect the health of your family and decrease the value of your home!