As a property owner, it is your responsibility to ensure the longevity and performance of your commercial roof. Coming up with a detailed roof maintenance program with the help of your building manager and your chosen roofing contractor will assure you that all aspects of your commercial roof will be covered.
Twice-a-year inspections are an integral part of the roof maintenance program. With these, you are made aware of whether your commercial roof is showing signs of disrepair. Superior Construction Co., one of the top commercial and residential roofing contractors in the area, takes a look at each one.
1. Water Ponding
Water is the top enemy of any roofing system. As soon as it collects on the surface of a low-sloped commercial roof, it often signifies that the whole system’s health is compromised. It happens because of clogs or blockages on the drainage system, preventing rainwater from flowing out of the building. If not addressed right away, it can lead to the roof’s structural failure. This problem also expedites the roof’s aging process through increased exposure to the sun’s UV rays and chemical leaching.
2. Water Stains on Ceilings and Walls
It is often believed that water stains on walls and ceilings indicate a leak in your roof. However, that’s not always the case as this could also mean a plumbing or HVAC issue. Ruling out either possibility by locating the source of the leak is imperative. However, if you notice new and growing spots in other areas of the ceiling despite the fixes, you are likely dealing with an active roof leak. In this case, you need to work with a reliable roofing contractor that can investigate the cause/s behind the leak.
3. Rot
Rot is not always recognized as a symptom of a roofing problem. However, if you find this issue in unused or restricted parts of your commercial property, then it could be due to a leak that has gone undetected and is continuously wreaking havoc in your building. It takes time for signs to become apparent, so the problem is often left to worsen over time. Commercial roofing contractors recommend checking every part of the building interior, including the little-used sections, to check for signs that are directly caused by a roof leak.
4. Mold and/or Bugs
Remediating mold and eradicating insects are two of the best investments you can ever make for your building. However, if you are spending more money than you once did on either one of these, it might be time to reconsider your plans to keep your property in good condition for your tenants or businesses. Unfortunately, the issue of mold and bugs could be a result of water infiltrating your roof. Work with a reliable contractor that can perform a thorough inspection and look for leaks that are concealed from view.
5. Wear and Tear
Commercial roofs don’t last forever, which is why they have their expected life spans. They will show signs of wear and tear, which is perfectly normal given their exposure to weather and the elements. However, if your roof is only installed a few years ago, make sure that it is given the attention it deserves to protect it against non-maintenance wear and tear. Clean the roof at least once or twice a year, making sure nothing clogs the drainages. Do the same during storm season—check for noticeable signs such as membrane punctures and other forms of storm damage and apply the necessary fixes.
The next time you face a roofing problem and wonder, “Are there commercial and residential roofing contractors near me?,” keep Superior Construction Co. on top of mind. Since 1990, we have been serving business owners and property managers with the highest quality roofing services. We install strong, energy-efficient roof systems and offer custom maintenance plans to help you save money and time.
Call us today at (978) 807-1401 or fill out our contact form to request a free estimate.