Commercial Roof Maintenance: A Comprehensive Guide to Extending Roof Lifespan

Maintaining your commercial roof might not be the most glamorous aspect of running a business, but it's undoubtedly one of the most crucial. A well-kept roof doesn't just protect your assets; it safeguards your financial investments and keeps your workplace safe and dry. Let’s delve into some of the best practices and tips on commercial roof maintenance to help extend your roof’s lifespan.

Taking Care of Business: Commercial Roof Maintenance Best Practices

Why Does Commercial Roof Care Matter?

Commercial roofs are one of the unsung heroes of your business. They endure the relentless assault of sun, rain, wind, and snow. Over time, these weather elements can lead to a host of issues, such as leaks, reduced energy efficiency, and structural damage. To prevent these problems and get the most out of your investment, regular maintenance is key. 

Of course, the quality of that maintenance goes a long way, too—that’s why it’s important to partner with a true commercial roofing expert for annual maintenance and prompt repairs when necessary.

Commercial Roof Best Practices: Factors to Consider

Inspect Your Roof Regularly

You wouldn’t run your business’s fleet of cars or trucks for thousands of miles without getting the oil changed. Routine check-ups four your roof are just as essential, helping you catch problems before they escalate. 

The best practice is to arrange regular roof inspections at least twice a year—once in the spring and again in the fall. For these inspections, it’s book a team committed to providing businesses with a better, safer roofing experience. Keep in mind that you and your roofing contractor need to look out for damaged or missing shingles, loose flashing, and other potential trouble spots.

Swift & Steady Repairs

Should your roof inspections uncover any issues, it’s best not to procrastinate on repairs. Coming up with a strategic and timely action plan with your roofing contractor can prevent small problems from ballooning into costly disasters. For example, addressing leaks with your contractor promptly can save you from extensive—and costly—water damage and mold growth.

Say No to Debris

Leaves, branches, and other debris can accumulate on your roof, clogging drains and causing potential water damage. Regular cleaning will not only prevent debris from piling up on your roof but will also ensure proper water flow and prevent water from pooling.

Keep Those Gutters In Check

In line with debris removal, proper gutter maintenance is crucial for extending the lifespan of your commercial roof. Clogged gutters can lead to water overflow, which may infiltrate your building. Make sure that gutters are not only debris-free but are also securely attached and correctly sloped to allow water to flow away from the building.

Coat It to Protect It 

Commercial property owners in the Midwest would do well to consider having their commercial roof coated with a reflective roof coating. Various insulations, green options, and coatings can shield your business’s roof from UV rays and mitigate temperature fluctuations. With a cool roof, you can significantly reduce energy costs, making it a wise investment in both your roof's longevity and your business's financial health.

Certain cool roof programs and initiatives are cropping up throughout the U.S. Your business may even qualify for incentives for making energy-efficient investments!

Get Industry-Leading Roofing Care Assistance

While it’s important to learn commercial roofing care tips and practices, it's equally critical to build a relationship with a professional roofing contractor. A commercial roofing expert can not only perform bi-annual inspections but also help with roofing maintenance to extend your roof’s lifespan effectively. 

As a company with more than a century of experience, Sherriff Goslin is the most reliable, efficient, and trusted commercial roofing company in the Midwest. We’re always ready to provide high-quality roofing and maintenance services to our commercial partners big and small. 

Our team is also committed to protecting our customers and employees by fostering a culture of safety in all our inspection management services, flat roof repairs, and metal roofing projects. You can rest assured that your commercial roofing experience will be pleasant and hassle-free because we prioritize safety with OSHA-compliant equipment and comprehensive safety training.

Tips & Tricks In Caring For Your Commercial Roof

1. Choose the Roof that Best Suits Your Needs

When it comes to commercial roofing, one size doesn't fit all. Consider factors like climate, energy efficiency, and durability when selecting your roofing material. Options include TPO, PVC, EPDM, and metal roofs, each with its advantages and maintenance requirements. To make sure you’re getting the roof that best suits your business, talk to the Sherriff Goslin team to help you make the right choice.

2. Prevention is Always Better Than Cure

We’ll let you in on our biggest secret to extending your roof’s lifespan: Keep up with preventive roof maintenance. By addressing issues before they manifest or escalate, you can save thousands of dollars in repair and replacement costs. Don't wait for leaks to surface or shingles to blow away: get a partner in inspection management and save yourself the hassle.

3. Keep a Record of Everything Your Roof Goes Through

It’s best to maintain a detailed record of all inspections, repairs, and contractor work performed on your roof. This detailed log can be a lifesaver when it comes to warranty claims and future maintenance planning, especially if your roof has been in use for a long time.

4. Drainage Matters

Your commercial roof’s drainage matters. It’s essential to maintain proper roof drainage to avoid water damage. Make sure that your drainage system is working optimally and consider additional drainage solutions if you experience heavy rainfall in your area.

5. Winter is Coming: Prepare for Snow Removal

As Michigan winters often reach sub-freezing temperatures that can lead to heavy snowfall, putting a snow removal plan in place is essential to prevent excessive weight on your roof. Snow accumulation can lead to structural damage, leaks, and even roof collapses. Consult your trusted roofing contractor to strategize how to best address this concern.

Your Commercial Roofing Maintenance Checklist

Use this handy checklist to guide you in caring for your commercial roof:

• Schedule regular inspections in spring and fall
• Promptly repair any damage you find
• Keep your roof clean and free of debris
• Maintain gutters for proper drainage
• Consider applying a reflective roof coating for energy efficiency
• Implement preventive measures against pests
• Engage professional roofing contractors for annual or bi-annual inspections

Bottom Line: Trust Sherriff Goslin Roofing for Your Commercial Space

We think it’s safe to say that commercial roofing maintenance is no easy feat. It’s not just a choice; it’s a necessity for businesses. Not only is this comprehensive guide a great first step to extending your roof’s lifespan but it’s also a helpful checklist to ensure your business’s success and financial health. After all, staying on top of roof care and maintenance will save you a lot of money that can be used to run and innovate your enterprise.     

And as always, for every roofing concern you have in between inspections, you can always trust Sherriff Goslin.

Get In Touch With Us Today For Comprehensive Commercial Roofing Care

Don't wait for the next storm or leak – start your commercial roof maintenance plan today with Sherriff Goslin! Your booming Michigan enterprise will surely thank you. Find a Sherriff Goslin branch near you to book a free roof inspection.