How Often Should You Have a Commercial Roof Inspection?
Depending on your commercial roof’s square footage, you could be looking at $19,000 to replace a flat roof, if not more. Although there are instances where a roof replacement is unavailable, there are steps you can take to prevent replacing your existing roof sooner than anticipated.
One of the best ways to preserve the integrity of your roof is with a commercial roof inspection. But the question remains: how often should you have your roof inspected?
Although it might seem like there’s a clear-cut answer to this question, several factors affect when and how often your roof should be inspected by a professional. This helpful guide breaks it down for you, so be sure to keep reading the information every commercial building owner needs to know.
Why You Need a Commercial Roof Inspection
When you neglect to inspect your commercial roof, there may be issues slowly starting to form. When left for too long, these small issues (such as leaks) can lead to larger issues for your commercial business, including dangerous mold.
For example, you may have ponding water. This is especially true if your commercial building has a flat roof.
A flat roof naturally sags in some areas. Water can easily accumulate in these dips and something as innocuous as a tiny puddle can quickly lead to major issues.
If your commercial building has tenants, a small leak can quickly put their rentals out of commission if mold infiltrates the interior. This is why you need a regular roof inspection.
Keep in mind that standing water can also attract wild animals, mosquitos, and other pests. Not only can water enter your commercial building, but vegetation can grow on top of your roof.
When left for too long, this water may cause your roof to blister. You may not notice this damage until you have a physical roof leak.
Failure to inspect your roof can lead to a severe leak with significant water damage. Instead of a roof inspector finding a small imperfection in your roof that requires a quick fix, you may need an entire roof replacement. Worst case scenario, you run the risk of your roof collapsing.
Luckily, a regular roof inspection can identify potential issues before they arise.
How Often Do You Need a Roof Inspection?
You should get a roof inspection at least once a year. However, if your commercial property is in an area prone to severe weather patterns, you should consider a roof inspection every six months.
Severe weather can cause a significant amount of roof damage. This includes hail storms, excessive amounts of snow and rain, and heavy winds.
Older roofs should also be inspected more often, such as every six months. If you notice any issues with your roof, you would want to schedule a roof inspection as well.
You can work to reduce roof damage with commercial roof ventilation. This can help prevent water damage, a buildup of moisture, and even lower your energy bills. During your commercial roof inspection, you’ll learn about your roof’s current ventilation and if you need to upgrade it.
If you opt for roof inspections every six months, stick to a spring/fall schedule.
What Happens During a Commerical Roof Inspection?
During your commercial roof inspection, a skilled inspector will begin by visually assessing your roof. They’ll examine both the exterior and interior surfaces. During their inspection, they’ll look for any types of cracks, rust, or dents that may leak to a roof leak.
They’ll also look for obvious signs of wear and tear to your roof. They’ll check the structure of your roof and its surface. If you have any questions or have noticed any changes in your roof, now is the time to point them out so your inspector can thoroughly investigate.
Once your roof inspection is complete, you’ll receive a full report. This report will explain any potential repairs or replacements you may need.
If your roof has significant damage and can’t be repaired (or is more than 40 years old and damaged), your inspector might recommend that you completely remove your existing roof. Although you may be able to complete temporary repairs, this may cost you more money if you only need to have a complete roof replacement at a certain point.
What Inspectors Look For
As your inspector carries out their commercial roof inspection, they’ll look for leaks and the source of those leaks. They may need to look inside and outside your building.
Next, your inspector will check for any damaged, lifted, or missing shingles. If they notice them, they’ll document it so you know exactly what needs repairs.
Your commercial roof inspector will also check your gutters to see if any are clogged with dirt and debris. This can lead to water damage if left for too long, along with nesting spots for animals.
The next thing your inspector will check is your roof’s rafters. They’ll also look at its decking and ridge line. This is where they’ll check for signs of weakness or damage.
As previously mentioned, your inspector will check your roof’s ventilation system, ensuring it works properly. A properly functioning ventilation system can extend how long you have your existing roof.
The last thing your roof inspector will look for is signs of wear and tear. This includes worn shingles or any cracks on your roof that might lead to a roof repair or replacement.
Schedule Your Roof Inspection Today
A roof inspection not only finds potential leaks before they turn into major renovations, but it works to keep everyone inside your commercial building safe from a potential roof collapse. Ideally, you should have your roof inspected once to twice a year. This lets you spot potential issues before they turn into larger ones and can save you thousands of dollars in the long run.
WeatherTech Roofing can help. We offer roof inspections, repairs, and replacements. Contact us today for a free estimate.
