Common Problem Areas of Commercial Flat Roofs (And How to Keep Your Roof Healthy)

Owning a business takes a great deal of work and dedication. If you have a building you work out of, upkeep on the building needs to be a line item on your yearly to-do list. You must keep your property in tip-top shape and not neglect the building. Perhaps you own an apartment complex or assisted living facility and must ensure the safety of the building for your residents who place their trust in you. Perhaps you own a shopping center or warehouse. The stores inside depend on you for helping to keep their products safe. The pressure can be great when owning a commercial property. 

One thing to consider, which should be of top priority, is the quality of your roofing system. The roof keeps out the weather elements, ensures quality air temperature indoors, and can also assist with lowering monthly energy bills. Here are some ways to keep your roof healthy and strong for years to come. 

Protect Against Leaks

Inspecting your roof for leaks is vitally important and should be done regularly. If caught early, sealants can fill in any gaps, holes, or damaged areas before more complications can occur. A liquid compound can seep into the deepest of crevices, sealing them up and strengthening the bond. Unfortunately, if not addressed promptly, and the damaged area has become too large, there could be other issues that need to be addressed. 

Debris Removal

Cleaning out the roof drains,  gutters, and downspouts, can help extend the life of your whole roofing system. When debris clogs the system, water can not flow freely off of the roof, and can therefore pool in undesired areas. After cleaning the system, make sure the water flows freely. Look for loose bolts and screws on gutters, and examine sealants and flashings for the drains. 

Fix and Repair Quickly

Leaks on a roof can lead to significant damage to the interior of your building, leading to costly repairs. As soon as you notice a leak or a soft spot, take immediate action to have it repaired. If you have concerns about how to repair a commercial roof, be sure to contact Cittrix Roofing in Lake County to diagnose the problem and properly fix it. 

Keep the Roof Clear

Depending on where the building is located, and the height of the building, there may be trees nearby dropping the occasional broken branch or limb. Also, in the autumn of the year, leaves may collect on the rooftop. It is imperative to keep your roof clear of excess leaves, pine needles, and limbs. If the building owner chooses not to clear off the roof regularly, pools of water can collect in these areas causing potential future damage to the roofing material. (Learn how important arborist is!)

Proper Ventilation

Ventilation throughout your building is essential in keeping the roof healthy. Consider these questions when it comes to ventilation:

• Does the roof deck have proper ventilation? 
• Does the deck sag?
• Are there cracks in the wood rafters and supports?
• Can you see light streaming in from the exterior?
• Does the air smell musty or pleasant?
• Do you see areas of mold or mildew on the surface?

These are all indications that the roof may not be vented properly. Place your trust in the professionals at Cittrix Roofing in Lake County to inspect the ventilation system to ensure the safety of all who use your building. 

Owning a commercial building does have many rewards. However, there is a great deal of work that goes into securing a safe building. Business owners can follow these simple roof maintenance tips to keep their roofs in good condition for years to come. Call Cittrix Roofing to assist with regular inspections and let’s work together to keep your business moving forward!