A damaged, leaking roof can be a major inconvenience to business and can lead to structural damage if left unchecked. That’s why in your capacity as property manager, it’s important to identify and take care of issues like standing water and leaks before they cause major damage.
From old age to roof membrane damage, there are many potential causes of commercial roof leaks. To better protect the buildings you manage, you should know some of the most common reasons water damage occurs.
- Old age: Most commercial roofs have a lifespan between 15 and 20 years before they need replacement. Reference and add detailed updates to all roof maintenance records throughout your tenure as building manager to build the business case for repair or replacement should damage occur. Note installation dates and expiration dates of product and workmanship warranties where possible. A detailed record will make it easier for roofing contractors to assess the state of the roof in question when you contact a commercial roof repair service for an estimate.
- Standing water: Since most commercial roofs have a low slope, areas of standing water are more likely, especially if the drains get clogged. It’s important to regularly detect and treat ponding water to keep it from adding additional weight and stress on the roof. Water buildup can significantly increase the risk of a commercial roof leak. To prevent standing water from building up on the roof, make sure the commercial building has a proper, efficient draining system.
- Damage to the roof membrane: A weatherproofed roof membrane is what seals off the interior of the commercial building from the outside. The roof membrane can become damaged over time, which renders the weatherproofing ineffective and exposes the damaged portions to the elements. Common causes of roof membrane damage include harsh weather, strong winds, excess water buildup and sun damage. To keep the roof membrane in good shape, be sure to schedule regular inspections and repairs.
What steps should commercial property managers take after identifying a leak?
When you, the building’s tenants or a maintenance technician spot a leak, record the point of entry and inspect other areas in the building to determine if there are other signs of leaks. Check the insurance policy in place for the commercial property to determine if the presence or lack of roofing coverage affects your next steps. You may need to contact your insurance agent or corporate office and file a claim prior to contracting repairs. At that point, unless otherwise directed by management or your insurance company, call a reputable, local roof repair company to obtain an estimate of the damage and repairs needed. Commercial roofing contractors can help you find the source of the leak, what may have caused the roof damage and whether a repair or roof replacement may be necessary.
If you’re looking for licensed contractors experienced in performing commercial roof repairs, Select Construction offers the services you need. For more information about our commercial roofing services, contact Select Construction today.