Being responsible for the upkeep of a commercial building is no walk in the park. There are sure to be issues cropping up left and right, all vying for your attention and taking up your time. Having been in the biz for many years, when it comes to buildings, I will say that Ben Franklin sure was right when he said that, �An ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure.�
Every building owner wants to make sure that his building stays in top shape for as long as possible, so that it can continue to bring in a decent income for many more years. One aspect that a building owner needs to pay particular attention to is the roof � and the most cost-effective way to take care of your roof is to observe proper preventive maintenance measures to maximize performance and lengthen its lifespan. In this post, let me share with you some primary maintenance activities that should be included in your property management planning.Importance of Preventive Maintenance
A preventive commercial roofing maintenance plan is an investment for the future. While it may require spending a little bit today, it can help you save a great amount of time and money in the years to come. Roofing repair and replacement can be expensive, especially when the problems are serious and expansive, and the only way to dodge them is by performing routine preventive maintenance right now.Preventive Maintenance Measures to Consider
The following are the activities that you should include in your property management planning to ensure that your roof reaches or, with any luck, manages to exceed its average service life.
Inspections
For roofs in commercial installations, a thorough inspection at least twice a year is in order: once in the spring and once in the fall. During inspection, your trusted local roofing contractor should:
- Check drains, gutters, and downspouts to see if they are free of any blockage that can hinder proper water drainage. This is important, as a clogged gutter system can cause water to pool on the roof. Pooling water can lead to serious damage over time. Also, inspect flashings and other possibly weak spots on the roof for any tears or gaps through which water can seep in.
- Evaluate the condition of your vents and any equipment installed on your roof to make sure they�re well-sealed.
- Look for any signs of roof damage.
- Recommend solutions for any problem/s detected.
Note that different roof types typically show different signs of damage. This is the reason why you must ask for the assistance and services of a qualified roofer who has adequate knowledge and experience working with different types of roofing systems.
Basic and Minor Repairs
Having your roof inspected regularly will help you to catch problems early. Depending on the recommendations of your roofer, some of the problems may require immediate repair. If this is the case, don�t delay, no matter how small the issue may seem. Remember that a smaller problem is easier and cheaper to mend than a big one.
Earlier, I briefly mentioned that different roofs have different issues, and that the telltale signs are often varied. That�s why it is best to let a professional perform any repairs: Professional roofers will have the right equipment, knowledge, and training in resolving various roof problems and fixing any damage.
Application of Reflective Coatings
Reflective coatings can help prevent and combat the elements. Most high-quality roof coatings are UV-resistant and are designed to withstand even the harshest environmental conditions. Your contractor can help you find coating products that contain the right substances and materials to maximize reflective properties. Reflective coatings don�t just help save your roof � they also help you save money by making your roof more energy-efficient and, consequently, bringing your energy bills down.
About the AuthorDawn Smith has been in the construction and roofing industry for over a decade now. She has been swinging a hammer alongside her dad since she was little, and has vast exposure to just about anything to do with home improvement. During her free time, she likes to share tips and her experiences with people who share her passion. Check out her blog here http://www.peakroofingcontractors.com/and read more of her industry updates here https://www.facEB.com/peakroofingcontractors.