Post-Winter Maintenance Checklist For A Commercial Flat Metal Roof
Winter can take a toll on your commercial metal roof. The low temperatures, snow, and other inclement weather conditions can cause roof damage. Thus, it's essential to carry out post-winter maintenance and manage problems before they get worse. With this in mind, here is a checklist of the maintenance processes to undertake for a flat metal roof.
Check for Pooling
Flat roofs have a small pitch, which means that rainwater may not drain properly from the structure. Pooling or ponding occurs when water fails to drain off the roof or dry out within 48 hours after heavy rainfall. A visual inspection of the roof can reveal puddles or ponds on the roof surface. Pooling presents the following problems:
- It encourages mold growth on the roof
- Pooling water heats during the day and increases the risk of roof risk
- Puddles weaken the roofing material and decrease its lifespan
Check your commercial roof for water puddles after winter. Repair puddle-prone areas by using roof plaster to create shallow spots. Filling the low spots allows water to drain off the roof and protects the structure from damage.
Check for Surface Damage
Metal roofs have an incredible lifespan. Unfortunately, inclement weather can shorten their usable life. If your roof isn't insulated, the changing temperatures can cause surface cracks due to expansion and contraction. Also, sleet can cause dings and dents, which increase the risk of leaks. Besides these issues, look out for the following:
- Deterioration of the roof membrane
- Panel corrosion
- Loose fasteners
- Worn flashing
- Roof discoloration
If your roof has any of these issues, call for immediate repairs. With discoloration, re-coating the roof can help restore its color and visual appeal.
Remove Debris and Vegetation
Fall and winter seasons can leave debris and vegetation on the roof. While these don't pose an immediate danger, they can damage your roof. Debris and organic matter decompose on the structure. They trap moisture, which damages the surface of the metal roofing.
The organic matter also rots and creates suitable breeding conditions for mold, mildew, and algae. These leave unsightly patches on your roof. If mold spreads to your exterior walls, it may damage the paint. Clear any debris or vegetation on your roof to avert these problems.
Inspect Areas Around Equipment
Most commercial building owners love flat roofs due to the ability to install equipment on the roof. If you have HVAC, skylights, and more, you need to inspect these installation areas for signs of weakness. After a long period of inclement weather, weaknesses may occur around these areas, leading to roof leaks. Inspect the flashing around these points for cracks and crevices. Repair the tears to prevent water damage to the building.
Contact a commercial roofing contractor for professional maintenance and repair services.