Maximizing roof longevity: The power of proactive inspections

By Jesse Sanchez.

Experts express the necessity of proactive inspections in preventing costly roof repairs and extending the lifespan of roofing systems.

The commercial roofing industry is shifting towards a more proactive approach in managing roof deficiencies and industry leaders like those from Greenwood Industries, Best Roofing and Jobba Trade Technologies are taking notice. In this Read, Listen, Watch (RLW) hosted by Karen Edwards, experts discussed how regular inspections and technology-driven documentation are reshaping the way contractors approach roof maintenance.

Joe Jolicoeur, vice president of Greenwood Building Envelope Services, noted the importance of identifying deficiencies early to prevent larger issues. “If you take proactive preventative measures and you correctly, basically, put preventative measures in place, you can catch these ahead of time and keep minimal damage on your roof,” Joe said. He explained that installation errors, such as cold welds and edge metal issues, often emerge within the first two years of a roof’s lifespan and can lead to long-term problems if left unchecked.

Environmental factors also play a significant role in roof deterioration, particularly in regions with harsh weather conditions. Jordan Litt, senior forensic roof specialist at Best Roofing, noted that their service team frequently encounters damage caused by ponding water and high winds. “We see that type of stuff all the time. Distressed membrane due to ponding water. It rains all the time. Wind damage, things like that,” Jordan said. By leveraging digital documentation tools such as FCS software from Jobba Trade Technologies, contractors can provide clear, detailed reports that allow clients to visualize potential problem areas and make informed decisions.

Zach Carpenter, senior account executive at Jobba Trade Technologies, expressed the crucial role of technology in streamlining inspections and boosting efficiency. He highlighted how digital documentation not only enhances transparency but also helps roofing contractors transition from a reactive to a proactive business model. “Every time you step on a roof or have an opportunity to be invited on a roof, you need to stock the shelves with your product, which are these deficiencies,” Zach explained. By leveraging FCS software, contractors can systematically track deficiencies, generate comprehensive reports and provide building owners with actionable insights. This proactive approach fosters trust, strengthens client relationships and ultimately leads to long-term service and replacement opportunities.

The proactive approach is not only about early detection but also about educating building owners and facility managers. Jordan pointed out that FCS software provides a strategic advantage in conveying issues to clients. Expressing how digital reporting can serve as a safeguard against liability disputes while promoting preventive maintenance he said, “Having that report and documented when you actually gave that to them versus when an issue happened, that saves you right there.”  

Beyond inspection, proactive maintenance can also serve as a gateway to additional business opportunities. Joe shared an example where a routine inspection led to the identification of a widespread issue. “We finally got in there and, come to find out, the entire roof was de-lammed, basically blowing up and down like a trampoline. Now I have it in emergency mode, where I have my estimator team on it right now, developing out a full scope for a roof replacement.” Such scenarios illustrate how an initial inspection can lead to proactive repairs and, ultimately, full-scale roof replacements, securing long-term revenue streams for contractors.

Read the transcript, Listen to the podcast or Watch the webinar, to learn more about the industry moving towards a data-driven and preventive approach!