7 Tips to Extend the Life of a Commercial Roof

Your commercial building is a big investment, and you want every part of it to last as long as possible — including the #roof. These seven simple tips are proactive ways you can maximize your commercial roof's lifespan (and even tenant satisfaction).

1. Choose the Right Roofing Material

One of the best ways to extend the life of your roof is by?matching your roof system?to your location, building type and use, and environmental goals from the very beginning. With so many?roofing systems available, how do you know which is the right choice for your building? Read our previous articles "Which Roofing System is Right For Your Building?" and "Highlighting The Most Popular Roofing Systems" for more information.

2. Know Your Warranty and Maintenance Plan

Knowing your warranty is an integral part of commercial #roofmaintenance. Your warranty should give you guidelines to follow regarding inspections and maintenance tasks, each of which can help extend the life of your roof and give you more peace of mind from season to season.?

3. Schedule Regular Inspections

Canada's National Roofing Contractors Association recommends semi-annual roof inspections and maintenance to keep your roof in its best condition. During an inspection, a contractor can catch issues like clogged drains or physical damage, conditions that may cause big problems later. If your building is located in an area with winter weather, you want to make sure you schedule seasonal roof inspections?in the spring and fall.

4. Keep the Roof Clean

On top of regular inspections, you should also regularly clean your roof. This includes clearing off leaves, dirt, trash, moss, and other debris.?Debris can build up and clog your gutters or ventilation system, which can lead to water drainage issues and damage. Snow removal may be necessary in the winter, depending on building construction.

5. Address Problems as Soon as They Arise

When repairs are necessary because of physical damage, storm damage, or regular rooftop maintenance activities by other trades, they should be addressed promptly. If you ignore a problem, it will become worse and put your roof at risk of needing a total replacement. It’s best to address roofing problems while they can still be repaired. Most manufacturers’ commercial #roofing warranties require owners to report leaks right away. Refer to your warranty for specific requirements.

6. Trim Overhanging Branches

Overhanging tree limbs may not seem like a big deal, but they can put your roof in jeopardy. A falling branch can cause serious damage if it’s big enough, so you want to regularly prune limbs as they grow over your roof. Trimming branches will make cleaning leaves, acorns, and nuts off your roof easier. As a bonus, keeping branches away from a building is a smart way to help prevent animal and insect infestations.

7. Limit Foot Traffic

When it comes to roof maintenance tips, you can’t get much simpler than limiting roof traffic. Excessive traffic will eventually lead to damage. While you can’t avoid foot traffic altogether, you can reduce it by restricting access. Don’t let tenants or other people walk on your roof. Only trusted professionals servicing equipment or the roof itself should have access. Also, consider installing Elevate Walkway Pads or?Elevate X-Tred Walkway Pads?at all roof access points (ladders, hatches, doorways, etc.) and anywhere foot traffic will occur to help protect the roofing system from damage.

You have a lot of responsibility as a building owner, but you don't have to go it alone. Check out our?Building Owner's Toolbox?to report a leak, access roof warranty information. Reach out to an Elevate #roofingcontractor for more information: find a licensed Elevate Contractor near you.