Flat roofs have become increasingly more popular in recent years for commercial buildings. While there are many benefits to having a flat roof, they can require more frequent attention and care. Luckily, flat roof maintenance and quick inspections are usually easy for any property owner to do themselves. It is important to pay attention to your roof and provide regular maintenance to help your roof last longer.
WHY IS SPRING MAINTENANCE SO IMPORTANT?
HARSH WINTER CONDITIONS CAN CAUSE DAMAGE.
With harsh winters, spring is one of the most essential times to walk your roof and inspect it for damage. Even new, high-quality flat roofs can be damaged from winter conditions. After freezing and thawing, heavy snowfalls, and other debris collected on your roof, there could be problems forming. Spring can also bring added stress to your roof with changing temperatures and heavy rainfall.
There may be debris on the roof.
In any season, debris collecting on your flat roof is very common. This could be leaves, tree branches, or even birds and other animals making your roof their home. Debris can easily clog drains, scuppers, gutters, and downspouts. It is crucial to clear your roof of fallen debris to ensure your roof is draining properly.
It’s easier to get on a roofing contractor’s schedule.
Late summer is peak roofing season for many roofing contractors. Many commercial property owners are looking to repair and replace their roofs in the summer. In addition, many new construction projects take place in the summer and fall. By checking your roof in the spring, you can get ahead of the rush and make sure to get on the schedule sooner, ensuring that you can enjoy your summer and not worry about your roof the rest of the year.
EASY MAINTENANCE TIPS FOR ANY FLAT ROOF OWNER
1. CLEAR DRAINAGE AREAS
Debris will fall and blow onto your roof during the fall and winter. This could cause your drains and scuppers to get backed up. If drains are not properly cleared, it could result in pooling water on your roof. If you notice pooling water, it almost always has something to do with drainage issues. Simply remove all debris from the area, then call a trusted roofing contractor if that doesn’t solve your issue.
2. CHECK FOR PUNCTURES
Punctures, rips, and tears are common from winter damage. Water from rainfall or melting snow could seep through these punctures and cause leaks. It is important to catch these as soon as possible, as they are much easier (and less expensive) to repair when it is a smaller issue. Leaks usually start small, but they will get worse as time goes on. The older your flat roof is, the more common these can become as materials experience more wear and tear.
3. TRIM BACK YOUR TREE BRANCHES
If you have trees on your property overhanging your roof, trim back the branches to avoid excess debris falling on your roof. This will help to minimize problems with drainage and punctures.
4. INSPECT A FEW TIMES A YEAR
The more you inspect your roof and maintain it, the fewer problems you should have. You can catch small problems before they become large issues and you can have peace of mind.
Ongoing flat roof maintenance and care is essential to ensure your roof lasts for years to come and stays in great condition. The tips stated above can be done by any property owner and will save you from big issues in the future.
If your flat roof needs a repair or replacement, call Hopkins Roofing at 641.621.0131.
