Maintenance Tips for Extending the Lifespan of Your Industrial Roof
The roof of an industrial facility endures immense exposure and stress. Performing proactive maintenance and repairs is crucial for maximizing the lifespan and performance of industrial roofing systems on warehouses, manufacturing plants and other commercial buildings. Follow these best practice maintenance tips to protect your investment and avoid costly problems down the road.
Conduct Regular Inspections
Make thorough roof inspections a priority at least twice per year, in spring and fall. Walk the roof looking for any signs of damage, deterioration, ponding water, leaks, loose flashings and debris buildup. Inspections allow you to identify and address minor issues before they escalate into major repairs.
Remove Debris
Buildups of dirt, leaves, branches and other debris trap moisture that accelerates roof deterioration. Remove accumulated debris during inspections. For flat roofs, safely sweep and clear debris from drains and scuppers to maintain proper drainage. Avoid walking on areas marked fragile.
Reapply Protective Coatings
Certain roof coatings provide a protective barrier against weathering damage and leaks. Reapply elastomeric reflective roof coatings or other coverings at recommended intervals per the manufacturer, typically every 3-5 years. This preserves waterproofing abilities.
Repair Localized Damage
Act quickly to fix any localized roof damage found, such as punctures, loose flashings, missing fasteners, or damaged coverings. Seal any punctures and re-adhere loose sections to prevent water intrusion. Addressing minor damage promptly is much cheaper than replacing whole roof sections later.
Clean Surfaces Gently
Use low-pressure water washing to remove built-up grime and biological growths like mold or algae. Avoid abrasive scrubbing and harsh chemicals which can degrade roofing. Rinse surfaces thoroughly after cleaning. A clean roof surface will extend the roof life.
Replace Worn Sealants
Check places where the roof membrane meets walls, curbs and equipment for cracks or voids in caulk and sealants that allow water seepage. Reseal gaps with quality elastomeric sealant. Good seals are critical for preventing leaks.
Service Rooftop Equipment
Clean debris buildup off HVAC units, vents and other rooftop equipment which can impede proper functioning. Clear drains around equipment. Ensure any pipe or conduit penetrations in the roof remain well-sealed as well.
Hire a Professional Annually
While you can perform routine maintenance yourself, have a roofing specialist conduct an in-depth inspection annually. Professionals may detect underlying issues not apparent to untrained eyes. Their expertise allows preventative maintenance for the longest roof life.
Don’t defer essential roof maintenance on industrial buildings. Proper care significantly extends the service life of your roof, averts leaks and avoids major repairs or early replacement. Protect your investment through prudent annual maintenance.
