The Ultimate Guide to Commercial Roof Maintenance & Inspections

We’ll delve deeper into each step in the next section, but here’s a quick summary of how to perform your own roof inspection: 

• Start by examining the roof's overall condition, looking for signs of damage, such as missing or damaged shingles, cracks, or sagging areas. 
• Look for any evidence of water stains or discoloration on the ceiling inside the building. 
• Pay attention to the gutters, ensuring they are clear and securely attached.
• Check for any debris, such as leaves or branches, that may accumulate and obstruct drainage. 
• Inspect flashings, vents, and chimney seals for signs of deterioration or leaks.
• Document any findings and consult with a professional roofer for a more detailed assessment and necessary repairs. 

During a visual inspection, make sure to clear away any light debris like leaves and sticks, as even seemingly insignificant items can harm your roof. Pay attention to any rips or tears that could have a long-lasting impact. Take the opportunity to thoroughly check for additional damage in areas where debris is present.

If you notice significant amounts of debris, identify the source and take necessary action. This might involve hiring someone to trim nearby trees or address pest activity to relocate nests that could cause further damage.

A vital component of any commercial roof inspection checklist is assessing water damage. Water has the potential to deteriorate your roof, shortening its lifespan and leading to safety issues. Leaks and stagnant water can even harm your building's structure, leading to decay, mold growth, and pest infestations.

After heavy rainfall, conduct a thorough examination to identify areas with ponding water. This standing water can gradually harm roof membranes and indicates drainage issues. It’s important to note that you shouldn’t limit your inspection to just the roof. Preventative maintenance checklists should also include an interior inspection to detect signs of internal leaks.

Inspecting the roof perimeter is a crucial aspect of commercial roof maintenance. Elements such as flashing, seams, coping, and termination bars are susceptible to damage from high winds and other factors. When these components are damaged or missing, they can permit water entry into the structure of your facility.

To ensure a thorough assessment, examine the roof perimeter from both the rooftop and the ground. Look for any cracks, signs of damage, or displacement. This examination is particularly important after a storm, especially if you suspect you may have hail damage. Inspection checklists are a must-have after large storms or severe weather events, as they can significantly impact the roof perimeter and cause serious damage to your business. 

Proper drainage is crucial for all roofing types, particularly in the case of commercial roofs that commonly utilize flat roofing systems. Regularly inspecting gutters, downspouts, and drains is vital to prevent water pooling issues. Look for things like cracks, blockages, and obvious signs of damage. 

Routine cleaning of gutters and drains is essential to prevent blockages caused by leaves, debris, and pests. This maintenance measure safeguards your roof by eliminating pooling water and preventing the growth of mold, moss, and other unwanted substances. While downspouts are less prone to blockages, periodic inspections should be conducted to identify any breaks or leaks.

This element of commercial roof maintenance will vary depending on the specific roofing system you have in place. Membrane flat roofing systems like SBS-modified bitumen and TPO are commonly used in commercial buildings, offering excellent water protection. However, these systems need regular inspection for rips and tears.

For businesses with metal roofing, there are a few additional steps you’ll need to add to your metal roof inspection checklist. It is crucial to examine seals and fasteners to prevent possible leaks. After severe storms, it is also important to check for signs of loose or warped panels. If you spot signs of damage, don’t try to DIY it — call in commercial metal roofing experts.   

Chances are your business has various appliances and fixtures, such as HVAC systems, skylights, and access hatches. While they’re great additions to your business, these components can serve as potential entry points for both moisture and pests. When it comes to proper commercial roof maintenance, systems like HVACs and other appliances also need to be inspected. 

Carefully examine the seams surrounding these appliances, as they often serve as primary entry points for water. Additionally, it’s important to ensure there is no standing water around these fixtures, as water can find its way inside over time. Vigilant inspection and maintenance of these elements will help prevent moisture-related issues and pest infiltration.