This article will discuss the importance of commercial roof inspections and provide a guideline for determining the optimal inspection schedule for your specific needs.
Maintaining the integrity of your commercial roofing system is critical for the overall health and safety of your building. Regular inspections can determine potential issues before they become major problems, saving you time and money in the long run. But when is the best time to schedule these inspections?
What Are the Benefits of Commercial Roof Inspections?
Commercial roof inspections are essential in keeping your building safe and durable. Here are the significant benefits an inspection provides:
Early damage detection. Regular inspections for timely repairs and can help prevent potential issues before they become major, costly problems.
Safety. A poorly maintained roof or one with significant damage can pose a significant safety hazard to a building’s occupants as well as pedestrians. Inspections can determine if the roof is still structurally sound and free from potential risks.
Energy efficiency. A damaged or poorly insulated roof can lead to increased energy costs. Inspections can identify areas where the roof may need additional insulation or sealing, helping improve energy efficiency and lower your power consumption.
Compliance. Many states and municipalities have building codes and regulations that require commercial establishments to maintain their roofs to certain standards. Inspections can ensure that the building proprietor complies with these regulations so they can avoid potential fines and penalties.
Prolonged lifespan. Regular inspections can identify potential issues early so you can take immediate action to get them fixed, prolonging the roof’s life and preventing you from spending money on otherwise costly commercial roofing replacement endeavors.
Peace of mind. Regular inspections can give the building owner the assurance that the roof of their building is in good condition, or any potential issues that have been discovered will be immediately taken care of.
How Commercial Roof Inspections Are Done
A professional roofing inspector typically does roof inspections. The inspection process includes the following steps:
Visual inspection. The inspector will inspect the roof, looking for any obvious signs of damage or wear and tear. They will check for cracks, leaks, missing or damaged shingles, and other issues.
Measurement. The inspector will measure the roof to determine its size and condition, including the slope and drainage. This will help identify any areas that may need repairs or maintenance.
Inspection of the drainage system. The inspector will check gutters, downspouts, scuppers, and other parts of the drainage system to ensure they are functioning properly and directing water away from the building.
Examination of the flashing. The inspector will examine the flashing—the metal or plastic material used to seal the roof’s edges, penetrations, and joints—to ensure it is properly sealed and not corroded.
Inspection of the insulation. The inspector will check the insulation to ensure it is in good condition, and that there are no areas where it has been damaged, wet, or compressed.
Evaluation of the structural components. The inspector will evaluate the decking, rafters, trusses, and other structural components of the roof to ensure they are in good condition and can support the roof’s weight.
Report and recommendations. After the inspection, the inspector will prepare a report outlining any issues that were identified, and recommendations for necessary repairs or maintenance. They will also provide a cost estimate for any necessary repairs.
How Often Should You Conduct Roof Inspections?
The frequency of inspections for the roof of a commercial establishment can vary depending on several key factors, including the type of roofing material, the age of the roof, the building’s location and environment, and the specific needs of the building. That being said, it is recommended to schedule roof inspections at least twice a year, typically in the spring and fall. This allows for identifying potential issues before they become major problems, especially in preparation for scheduled repairs or maintenance during the milder spring and fall weather.
In addition to the twice-a-year inspections, it is also recommended to schedule a review after a severe weather event such as heavy rain, hail storm, or high winds, as these events can cause damage that may not be visible from the ground.
For low-sloped roofs, such as flat roofs, it is recommended to schedule inspections more frequently—at least every quarter—to ensure any water pooling or ponding is addressed before it causes any damage. Then for roofs with a rather documented history of repairs, or those that seemingly consistently have issues, the frequency of inspections should be increased accordingly.
Ultimately, the frequency of checkups your roof needs depends on the specific needs of your building and the condition of your roof. It is recommended to seek advice from professional commercial roofing services to determine how often the roof of your establishment should be inspected.
The Bottom Line
Regularly scheduled roof inspections are critical in ensuring the safety, integrity, and longevity of a commercial building. They also help lower costs of repairs, and aid in maintaining compliance with building codes and regulations. It is highly recommended to regularly schedule inspections—at least twice a year or after a severe weather event—depending on the type of roof, and as the building needs it.
Let Strong Roofing take care of your roof inspection needs. As one of the recognized roofing contractors in Manatee and Sarasota, we take pride in giving our clients unmatched quality craftsmanship and reliable service. Contact us today so we can schedule an inspection of your building.
