A commercial roof is a big investment for any business owner. Regular inspection and maintenance is crucial to protect that investment and avoid expensive repairs down the road. This comprehensive guide will walk you through the benefits of regular commercial roof inspection, what to expect during an inspection, how often inspections should happen, and tips for choosing a qualified commercial roof inspector.
Why Regular Commercial Roof Inspection Matters
There are several key reasons why regular inspection of your commercial roof is so important:
Extend the Life of Your Roof
Commercial roof systems are built to last 20-25 years on average. With regular inspection and maintenance, you can maximize the lifespan of your roof and delay the major expense of full replacement. An inspector can spot minor damage early and make small repairs now to avoid bigger issues later.
Prevent Leaks and Protect Inventory/Equipment
Leaks can cause major damage to business inventory, equipment, and interior finishes. Water damage from a leak can be extremely costly if not caught early. An inspector can identify potential leak points and make repairs before a leak ever happens.
Avoid Business Interruptions
If a roof leak goes unnoticed, it can cause unexpected business shutdowns for repairs. Regular inspections maximize uptime and allow you to plan repairs at convenient times rather than on an emergency basis.
Meet Insurance and Warranty Requirements
Many commercial insurance policies and roof warranties require regular inspection and documentation to remain valid. Stay compliant with these requirements through periodic inspections. An inspector can also ensure repairs meet warranty standards.
Improve Safety
Roof deficiencies like ponding water, loose materials, or access issues can become safety hazards. Identify and correct these issues through inspection before they lead to liability claims or injuries.
Optimize Energy Efficiency
An aging roof that is past its prime can have negative effects on heating and cooling costs. An inspector can check for age-related energy loss and recommend steps to improve efficiency.
Increase Property Value
Well-maintained roofs directly correlate with higher building value. Keep your property in top shape for improved resale potential or capital investment through regular roof care.
What to Expect During a Commercial Roof Inspection
A thorough commercial roof inspection involves far more than just a quick visual check. You can expect the following during a professional rooftop survey:
Detailed Walking Inspection
The inspector will walk the entire roof surface and closely look for any visible signs of damage, deterioration, or needed repairs. Some areas may be checked on hands and knees for a closer look. Features like skylights, hatches, flashings, drainage points, and rooftop equipment will all be inspected.
Advanced Testing
Inspectors will utilize specialized test methods as needed to check for hidden moisture and check insulation properties. These may include infrared imaging, nuclear meter testing, thermography, and cutting roof cores. Testing provides data on conditions that cannot be seen with the naked eye.
Documentation
Comprehensive notes, photos, diagrams, and sometimes videos are collected during the inspection process. These become part of your roof’s documentation and allow for easy comparison on future inspections.
Review of Past Repairs
Your inspector will check on past repairs and replacements to confirm workmanship and monitor condition. Documentation of roof history also helps inform recommendations.
Condition Assessment
Based on all collected data, the inspector will provide a clear assessment of the current condition of the roof, highlight any developing problems, and estimate remaining functional lifespan.
Repair Recommendations
You will receive a report outlining both major and minor repairs recommended to maximize roof lifespan. The report provides project scopes and budgets you can use for planning.
Future Maintenance Plan
A maintenance plan tailored to your roof type, age, and location will outline recommended intervals for future inspections and proactive maintenance. This keeps your roof in shape for the long run.
How Often Should Commercial Roof Inspections Happen?
Most commercial roof types should be inspected at least twice per year. That said, frequency can vary based on factors like roof age, material, and warranty requirements. Here are general recommendations:
Built-Up Roofing
Built-up roofs with gravel surfacing should be checked each spring and fall. Ungraveled built-up roofs may require three to four annual inspections. Banks of rooftop HVAC units should be checked more often.
EPDM Rubber Roofing
Inspect EPDM rubber roofs at least twice per year. EPDM roofs are susceptible to punctures and seam failure as they age, so vigilant inspection is key. Roofs over 10 years old may require three to four annual inspections.
PVC/TPO Single Ply Roofing
Perform inspections on PVC and TPO single ply membranes in spring and fall. Inspections are especially crucial after the first 5-10 years when premature aging can occur. High traffic areas need more frequent checks.
Metal Roofing
Metal roofs require vigilance because small punctures can cause major leakage. Inspect at least twice per year, with particular focus on areas prone to damage, like near rooftop equipment.
Modified Bitumen Roofing
Modified bitumen membranes should be checked at least twice per year to watch for blistering, punctures, and failed seams. Roofs over 10 years old benefit from three to four annual inspections.
Spray Polyurethane Foam Roofing
Because foam roofs are fully adhered systems with few seams, annual inspection is often sufficient if the roof is under 10 years old. Beyond 10 years, twice annual inspection helps guard against potential foam detachment or water ingress.
Green Roofs
Green roofs require inspection of the waterproofing membrane and also plant condition. This living roof system needs checking at least twice per year by a specialized inspector familiar with green roof components.
Coatings
Roof coatings require vigilance to prevent leaks at weak points in the underlying roof. Check coatings at least twice per year. High traffic areas need more frequent inspection.
Shingles
Shingled roofs should be inspected at least twice per year, with special attention to high-wind zones, fastener corrosion, and areas of water pooling. Shaded areas are also prone to moss and algae buildup.
How to Choose a Commercial Roof Inspector
Selecting the right inspector is key to getting an accurate assessment of your roof. Keep these tips in mind when researching qualified inspectors in your area:
NRCI Certification
Choose an inspector that holds a certification from the National Roofing Contractors Association (NRCA). This rigorous training program ensures inspectors are up-to-date on codes, standards, and best practices.
Experience
Look for an inspector with at least 5 years of dedicated commercial roof inspection experience. They should have in-depth knowledge of various roof types and repair methods.
Current NDE Training
Advanced diagnostic tools like infrared imaging require specialized training to use effectively. Verify inspectors have up-to-date training on non-destructive examination (NDE) methods.
Manufacturer Designations
For brand name roof systems like TPO or EPDM, select an inspector approved by that manufacturer. This ensures proper protocol for warranties.
Local Reputation
Choose a local company with demonstrated expertise in commercial roofing. They will understand your local climate conditions and maintenance needs.
Professional Rapport
Make sure the inspector you choose has strong communication skills to explain findings and recommendations clearly to you. The rapport between inspector and owner is important for maximum roof care.
Safety Record
Never compromise on safety. Only work with inspectors that follow stringent safety protocols and have an excellent safety track record.
Save Now or Pay Later
As the saying goes, “an ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure.” That certainly holds true when it comes to commercial roof maintenance. Regular inspection provides invaluable insight into your roof’s condition and future needs. The most cost-effective approach is to begin inspections as soon as your roof is installed and continue at recommended intervals for its entire lifecycle. Addressing minor issues now through preventative maintenance always costs less than emergency repairs down the road.
Your commercial roof is one of your most important business assets. Protect this major investment through proactive stewardship. Let a qualified commercial roof inspector be your trusted partner in maximizing safety, efficiency, longevity, and return on investment. They have the expertise to provide an objective assessment and recommend repairs at just the right time.
Regular commercial roof inspection provides peace of mind that your roof is in dependable shape year after year. The money and hassle saved over time is well worth the nominal expense of periodic inspections. So be sure to schedule your next inspection and keep your roof in peak condition. Your business will reap rewards for decades to come.
