In a commercial property, the roof is one of the most important aspects that property managers or owners tend to neglect. For your roof to withstand extreme weather and other destructive forces, as property owners, you need to prioritize roof upkeep and address any issues right away, regardless of how minor they may be. Failure to do so can lead to more costly repairs. To prevent this from happening, here are some tips for how you can take better care of your commercial property’s roofing system.
Know the warning signs
As a commercial property owner, you need to constantly watch out for the red flags that indicate your roof needs an inspection. While it may be tempting to contact a roofing contractor every time a problem occurs, it is not cost-effective. You don’t need to be a roofing expert, but you must be at least familiar with these warning signs so you can take care of these issues as they occur:
- Uneven roof
- Expensive electricity bill
- Blocked drains
- Water stains on the ceilings or walls
- Missing or damaged flashings
- Seaming gaps
- Mold growth or musty odors inside your commercial building
After a storm, make sure to clear your roof of any debris, fallen branches, or lose materials to prevent them from piling up. One common cause of roof damage is excessive weight on one roof area, so it is important that your roof is clutter-free. Always be proactive and not reactive when it comes to your roof upkeep. Stay vigilant for any of these warning signs, and remember to relay them to your roofing contractor.
Prioritize roof inspections
The key to extending your commercial roof’s life expectancy is preventive maintenance. As the property owner, you are responsible for keeping your tenants safe and protected. Keep in mind that your roof is your first line of defense against harmful elements, so it must be maintained properly to retain its functionality. Do not wait until your tenants complain of roof leaks or mold growth before you have it inspected. Experts advise to have your roof inspected at least twice a year. The longer you can stretch your roof’s life expectancy, the more money you can save.
Work with a reputable roofing contractor
Since your roof is a costly investment, you must choose a reliable and experienced contractor to take care of it. Make sure that they specialize in commercial roof buildings and preferably go with a provider who is nearby. However, if the one close to you doesn’t provide a high level of service, it would be best to expand your search. When searching for contractors, do not hesitate to ask them these questions.
- How long have you been in this business?
- Are you insured and licensed?
- Do you specialize in commercial roofs?
- What is your response time?
- How many contractors do you have in your team?
- Have you had any complaints before, and what did you do to address them?
- Do you have a list of client references that I can contact?
While it may be tempting to go with a provider with the lowest rate, you may end up spending more money than you should have. Remember that you are paying for their quality of service, so the more efficient and effective they are, the more valuable they will be.
Choose quality roofing materials
Unlike your house roofing system, your commercial roof is a considerable investment, so even the smallest detail can affect its efficiency. Moreover, it is considerably larger than residential roofs, so it is vital that you choose the right materials. Explore all your options before making a decision. Keep in mind that if you go for the more inexpensive option for the sake of savings, you will undoubtedly pay more than necessary. If the costs of the repairs will be more or similar to the price of a new roof, then it might be more economical if you go for a complete roof replacement.
Educate your tenants
Since your tenants utilize your commercial property, you must work with them to ensure that your roof is in its prime state. Inform them about the red flags they need to watch out for and emphasize the importance of being honest and proactive. Tell them to notify you right away of any leaks or damages, regardless of how they happened. The sooner they tell you about a roof problem, the sooner you can have it fixed. Additionally, they should advise you of any changes or repairs they have done on the roof.
Take into account the climate and weather conditions
No roof maintenance strategy is the same. Roof damages vary depending on the climate and the prevailing weather conditions. Heavy rain can cause mold growth, while extreme sun or hot temperatures can cause roof materials to decay. In addition, wild animals and termites can wreak havoc on your roofing system. Make sure that your roof maintenance plan suits your location.
Foster a good relationship with your roofing contractor
Just like when you consult with your doctor for your health problems, you need a roofing contractor that you can trust and depend on. Establish a healthy relationship with your roofing team. Keep the communication lines open and never hesitate to ask questions. Regardless of whether your concern may seem irrelevant, you should always bring it to attention. Always listen to the suggestions of your contractor, as they are the experts in the roofing business. Make sure to raise all your issues to avoid any misunderstanding between you and your roofing contractor. If you are a new commercial estate property owner, you can also ask them to give you an overview of commercial roofing or the basics of the roofing system to help you manage it in a better capacity.
A well-maintained roof is your commercial property’s first line of defense. To lengthen its life expectancy and ensure its functionality, you need to give it the best possible care available.
