We all know that the roof over your head is important. Often times, building owners overlook it – that is, until they have a problem. Ignoring that tiny leak for too long can lead to serious problems. Additionally, some roof systems are not visible from the ground. They require accessing the roof to assess any possible damage, which is something many property owners do not do. That’s why professional maintenance and regular inspection of your building envelope and roof system is critical. Annual roof maintenance creates a safe, long-lasting roofing system that performs.
With proper maintenance, your roof will stay in maintainable condition and ensure small problems don’t turn into larger, more costly issues. Here are a few things the roofing professionals at Curtis Construction look for when working to keep your roof in great condition.
- Active Roof Leaks
One of a roof’s biggest enemies is, you guessed it, moisture. When a roof leaks, it often goes unnoticed for an extended period of time. When a roof is neglected, little problems can destroy it. Over time, active leaks can completely saturate the substrates and migrate to other roof sectors.
Additionally, a wet roof decreases its efficiency and thermal resistances causing energy losses of up to 70%.
- Debris and Drainage
Your roofing and drainage system go hand in hand. When severe storms and heavy rainfall occur, inadequate drainage can result in ponding water. A roof may pond water as a result of poor housekeeping on the roof which contributes to clogged drains, gutters and downspouts. The build-up of roof top debris blocks water flow and creates ponding.
Why is this a problem?
The NRCA (National Roofing Contractors Association) has classified “undesirable” ponding water as standing for more than 48 hours, though ponding can pose a threat in even shorter time spans. Since ponds occur in low areas of a roof, a pond becomes a repository for debris, sediment, and chemical emissions. Ponding encourages microorganism and bacterial degradation, roof deflection, magnified ultraviolet exposure and premature failure of the roof system. A matter of “deep” concern in the roofing industry is the fact that a 1″ deep pond weighs 5.2 lbs. / sq. ft. and many structures cannot handle this extra load.
- Seams & Punctures
99% of roof leaks are caused by a cut in the roof’s membrane or an open seam. It is important to probe all roof seams, and inspect the roof’s membrane for cuts or holes. Additionally, all rooftop equipment should be inspected for security. If left un-inspected, it is not uncommon for un-secured rooftop equipment doors to blow across the roof and puncture the membrane.
- Flashings & Perimeter Edges
Roof flashings and perimeter edges should also be inspected during annual maintenance. When roofs fail or blow off, they commonly fail at perimeter edges. All flashings and perimeter edge metals should be inspected for security.
Now that you know a few deficiencies that can damage your roof, here are a few reasons we recommend regular roof maintenance and inspections, and how they can benefit.
- Save Money
The money invested in roof maintenance is fractional when compared to the cost of major repair or replacement that can result from lack of maintenance. Properly maintaining your roof not only saves money, annual roof maintenance allows building owners to defer roof replacement.
- Avoid Interruptions and Interior Re-Work/Damage
Roof leaks can cause costly interruptions to day to day business. Down time can be avoided ultimately saving time and money.
Repairs to the building’s interior and equipment are costly and inefficient. Avoid interior damage by inspecting your roof system periodically.
- Extend the Life of Your Roof
Roofs are installed to last decades; however severe weather and other environmental conditions can cause a roof to breakdown more quickly. Small problems and neglected leaks can turn from a minor repair to a major problem. Annual roof maintenance will extend the life-cycle of your roof system. Proactively maintained roofing systems last an average of 21 years, compared to an average lifespan of 13 years for poorly maintained roofs.
Your roof is the most important component of your building. Curtis Construction recommends a comprehensive roof inspection twice a year. However, we are here for immediate assistance if you notice an issue, or after severe weather like heavy rainfall, hail, high winds, or hurricanes. Our DataROOF program provides customers with preventative maintenance and inspections designed to maximize the service life of your roof. Contact Curtis Construction, Inc., with locations in Kinston and Greenville, NC, today to learn more.