A roof is an essential component of your property’s exterior, protecting you from the elements and providing privacy and curb appeal. Whether you own a home or operate a business, you probably seriously take roof maintenance and upkeep. If you own a commercial property, such as a grocery store, convenience store, or gas station, you need to take roof maintenance and upkeep even more seriously. Commercial property is much more vulnerable to damage from the elements and vandalism.
The following roof maintenance tips can go a long way toward keeping your property in tip-top shape. Keep reading to discover how to keep your commercial property roof in excellent condition.
Inspect your roof twice a year
To ensure that your roof is in good shape, you need to inspect it twice a year. If you have a metal roof, inspect it in the spring and fall as the weather changes. For asphalt roofs, inspect them after heavy storms. When inspecting for wear and tear or damage, look at all of the following:
- Condition of shingles
- Gutters
- Flashings
- Check for signs of leaks or water stains
- Inspect pipes leading to the roof if you have pipes on top of your roof.
If you find any signs of damage, contact a professional immediately to get your roof repaired before additional damage occurs.
Fix leaks immediately
The most important thing you can do for your commercial property roof is immediately fix leaks. The more time a leak has, the more damage it can cause to your property’s framing, ceilings and walls.
In addition to causing costly damage, leaking roofs can also lead to mold and other unsanitary conditions. If you find that your roof leaks when it rains, has water stains around the exterior, or notice standing water on the rooftop at any time of year, contact an experienced professional for leak repair as soon as possible.
Check for birds or pests that can cause damage
Do you see any birds or pests on your roof? If so, it’s essential to remove them as soon as possible. You need to watch out for anything that can damage the roof and cause it to leak.
Birds can cause a lot of damage. They can leave droppings and feathers behind, eventually accumulating on the roof and starting to rot. This will lead to mold growth, a severe problem that could cost you thousands of dollars in repairs. Pests can also damage if they infest your property and make their way up onto the roof.
If you find birds or other pests on your property, contact a professional pest or bird control company immediately for assistance with removal. Be sure to seal off entry points where an infestation may have started. This will help prevent future problems with these pests or other types of wildlife from entering your property.
Unclog gutters
Gutters are a necessary component of any building higher than two stories in height. Gutters direct rainwater away from the foundation and downspouts so that it doesn’t cause erosion to your property.
One of the worst things you can do for your gutters is neglect them. Over time, leaves and other debris will build up in drains, which will slow the flow of water and cause clogs. When this happens, water will overflow from the gutter and damage your roofing system and the exterior walls of your property.
You can avoid these problems by cleaning out your gutters every six months or so. Cleaning out a clogged gutter is something anyone can do with a rake or even a vacuum cleaner with a blower attachment.
Prune overhanging trees
Protect your roof by pruning overhanging trees and branches. If these trees are too close to your commercial property, they may not only damage the roof but can also create a nuisance for your business. If you do not keep an eye on these overhanging trees, they can snap off during strong winds and fall into the building.
