For commercial properties, the roof can be one of the largest financial investments made; however, it can also easily become one of the most neglected parts of any building. Regular maintenance and oversight can be the most important safeguard against structural decay and extreme weather damage. As a property manager, it is your responsibility to maintain a safe and secure building or home for tenants. These four tips can help you identify issues before they become serious and can even prevent damage resulting from neglect and poor maintenance.
1. Keep the Roof Clean
The first step to good maintenance is to regularly check your roof and gutters for leaves, branches and debris. Check for mossy build up or grass and have a professional clean it, if necessary. All vents, fans, skylights, joints and flashing should be in good condition and free of debris that could wear them down.
2. Make Sure the Roof is Draining Properly
Gutters should be checked regularly for leaves or debris that could clog them. This keeps water moving and prevents leaks and water intrusion that result from improper drainage. Improper drainage met with heavy rain or snowstorm can result in a make shift swimming pool on your roof; and not the fun type that your tenants will enjoy
3. Consider Location and Climate
Location and climate can bring new and diverse issues to every property manager’s roof. In Colorado, whether in the city or the mountains, altitude plays a role in the life of your roof. In higher altitudes, the solar radiation; air pressure, density and oxygen; temperature and atmospheric water vapor are all factors that contribute to wear and tear on your high altitude roof. Property managers should have a specific maintenance plan for each season change and be aware of how snow, altitude, and Denver’s 300 days of sunshine can affect their roofing system
4. Have Regular Roof Inspections
Regular roof inspections are the most important aspect to proper maintenance and roof longevity. They should be done once or twice a year by a professional roofing company who is familiar with different roofing systems. Additionally, you should consult a professional for an inspection anytime you experience damage from construction, severe weather or debris. Regular inspections can maximize the lifespan of your roof and property. Make sure the roofing company is reputable, licensed and insured.
