There’s a lot to think about when you’re running a business, so it can be easy to forget that even new roofs need a little TLC occasionally. If you want to catch any problems early and keep your building well-protected, preventative roof maintenance is essential. Arranging regular inspections with a local roofing professional ensures necessary maintenance is carried out and helps keep your roof in the best possible condition.

What are the Six Best Practices for Extending the Life of a Commercial Roof?

1: Check Your Drainage Systems

If your gutters or downspouts become clogged, water can quickly accumulate, leading to pooling on the roof. This can damage the roof covering and, in wetter regions, can also encourage mold growth. Keep your drainage systems clear throughout the year, but pay special attention in the fall when there’s likely to be more leaves and debris.

2: Get Rid of Any Debris

All sorts of debris can end up on your roof, whether it’s overgrown vegetation or trash that has been dropped by wildlife. As well as blocking your drainage system, debris can damage your roof and hide any minor repairs that need to be done. More thorough cleaning can be included as part of your regular maintenance, but debris should be cleared away between appointments.

3: Consider Roof Coatings

The roof is exposed to the elements so it’s vital to choose materials that can withstand the weather. If your current commercial roof is in good condition and doesn’t need replacing, you can extend its lifespan with a high-quality coating. This can reduce heat absorption in the sunny months, lowering your energy costs. It can also provide protection in the winter, preventing damage from freeze-thaw cycles.

4: Implement a Preventative Roof Maintenance Schedule

Regular inspections are vital for extending the lifespan of your commercial roof. A professional roofing contractor will be able to identify early signs of damage and carry out small repairs. This prevents problems from escalating and becoming more expensive, or impossible, to fix. Your local climate, surroundings, and the age of the roof will determine how often you should schedule inspections and maintenance.

5: Minimize Roof Traffic

If your roof is easily accessible, you may be tempted to hop out there yourself. However, it’s better to leave any roof maintenance to the professionals. It’s easy to puncture or damage the roof membrane, especially if any tools are dropped. Minimizing the traffic to the roof ensures no accidental damage can occur and limits wear-and-tear.

6: Check Any Leaks Promptly

If you spot any signs that there might be a leak, it’s advisable to get it looked at promptly. It’s more cost-effective to repair a small leak than to deal with the damage a larger leak can cause. Even if the leak remains small, water can do structural damage if left unchecked. This can quickly lead to a full roof replacement becoming necessary sooner than would have otherwise been needed.

We are proud to serve commercial and residential customers throughout the Midwest, Southeast, and Southwest. If you would like advice on how to extend the lifespan of your roof or would like to schedule an inspection, contact us today at Platinum Roofing in Sheridan, AR.