Reminder - It's Roof Fall Cleaning Time

By ICP Group. 

Follow this handy guide for talking to building owners about maintaining their roof. 

Fall is coming! And while building owners might already be doing their semi-annual cleaning, they might be missing a huge spot: their roof. We all know the importance of a properly maintained roof, and spring cleaning to prepare a commercial roof for warmer weather is a large part of making sure the roof continues to work in tip-top shape.  

Here is APOC’s guide on what to discuss with building owners when it comes to spring cleaning. A preventative maintenance inspection consists of a thorough visual inspection and documentation of the roof system. So let’s take a closer look at what you should be telling building owners to get inspected and why:  

Roof membranes and flashings 

Ensure all flashing membranes are in good condition. Check for signs of stress, cracking, splitting, wrinkles, blisters, etc. Remove any foreign matter such as balls, shoes, tools, branches, oils, chemicals, liquid or other objects. Then, clean the roof membrane and closely inspect for signs of physical damage. 

Gutters, drains and scuppers 

Because these are the main avenues that rainwater travels off a roof surface and is directed away from the building, it is crucial that these areas are inspected and maintained. Clean and remove any debris clogging or obstructing the flow of water. Look for any sights of cracking or splitting of the membrane around your drains and scupper. If anything is noted, they must be repaired immediately by a qualified roofing contractor. 

Penetrations 

Inspect penetrations for signs of wear. Ensure that the base of the penetration remains completely sealed and attached to the roof membrane.  

Pitch pans 

Check all pitch pans for shrinkage. As sealants shrink over time, water may begin to sit on the top of the pitch pan causing rust, leaks and deterioration. 

Metal flashings 

Inspect all metal flashings, counter flashings, copings, seams, joints, gravel stops, edge metal and other areas to ensure they are secure and free of rust or deterioration. Any unsatisfactory conditions should be repaired as soon as possible.  

Rooftop equipment and accessories 

Inspect all rooftop equipment for deterioration and areas that are prone to water penetration. This includes HVAC equipment, duct work, curbs, skylights, etc.   

Expansion joints 

Check all expansion joints for deterioration, wear and defects. Check the metal components to ensure they are fully secured and free of rust. Make sure the expansion joint is still flexible and resilient. Look for any signs of cracking or splitting while manually flexing the joint.  

Tell building owners that a good rule of thumb is to conduct a roof inspection twice a year — once in the spring and again in the fall before the first snow. If their roof is subject to unusual conditions, tell them more frequent inspections should be conducted. 

It’s important to highlight to the building owner the necessity of identifying the problems areas of their commercial roof and explaining why they should take these steps to ensure their roof lasts throughout the season. After all, properly maintaining a roof in early spring is the number one way to help prevent the stress of costly emergency repairs! 

Learn more about ICP Group in their RoofersCoffeeShop® Directory or visit icpgroup.com. 

Original article source: APOC