The perils of an ineffective roof are many. A leak can lead to property damage that could cost thousands of dollars. If allowed to deteriorate further, a collapsed roof can cause even greater damage or even injury to the people below.
The security of everything and everyone in a building starts with, and depends on, the roof that protects it all. With that in mind, the importance of knowing when and how to care for your roof is evident.
In this entry, we’ll examine the causes behind common roof problems, the basics of roof maintenance and inspection, and the options for a deteriorating roof.
What Causes Problems
The elements are the first culprit for roofing problems. Heavy snows, torrential rain, and gale-force winds can all contribute to the normal wear and tear that erodes a roof’s effectiveness.
Other issues contributing to the loss of effectiveness where roofs are concerned can include sub-par building materials, improper design, or inappropriate construction methods. These problems are preventable through taking extra care when selecting a company to install your roof.
In addition, failure to pay attention to appropriate maintenance can lead to problems over time. A company has far more control over this aspect than they do over problems that come from a poor installation.
How to Maintain and Inspect Your Roof
First, it’s important to inspect your roof each spring and fall (every 6 months). Catching small problems in a timely manner can help prevent them from becoming big ones, and save your business money.
Another important aspect of maintenance is keeping the roof clear of debris, such as branches, leaves, etc. Make sure that rain gutters are kept clear and functional as well. All of these efforts will slow deterioration.
Options for Repair or Replacement
When you do have an issue, replacing the roof is not your only option. The first option you should consider is coating the roof. This can extend the life of the roof, provide protection from leaks, and improve the energy-efficiency of the whole building. It’s also the least expensive option available.
The next step, if coating is insufficient, is to repair small issues individually. This option is viable if the membrane is in good shape, and the insulation underneath is still good.
The third, and more expensive option, is to re-cover the roof. If the structure of the roof is fundamentally sound and the installation was solid, it can be re-covered. This can only be done once though.
In the most severe instances, where 25% or more of the roof is damaged, or where the insulation beneath the roof has signs of aging or water damage, replacement may be the only remaining option.
Who to Work With
For any or all of these services, you need to find the best professional to perform the work. Look for established, licensed professionals. Do your research, check reviews, ensure that the company is insured and bonded. Once you’ve done all this and seen what we have to offer, contact us to take the next step.