Four Reasons Commercial Roof Inspections Are Important

According to a report by Principia Consulting (a leading research and consulting firm focused exclusively on the building materials and construction industry), the commercial roofing market in the United States generates $5 billion in revenue annually. A massive chunk of this market is driven by new construction and roof replacements, which occur as roofs age naturally. However, part of that revenue is also generated by easily avoidable repair/replacement costs when the roof is not inspected periodically.

The Case for Commercial Roof Inspections

Extreme weather conditions, subpar designs, and poor installation are just a few of the hazards that might endanger your roof. Therefore, periodic commercial roof inspections are often more than worthwhile — particularly in the spring and fall.

The following are four reasons why commercial roof inspections are important.

1. Roof failures can be uncomfortably expensive.

Early-stage roof repairs are easy to manage, but roof failures are not. Periodic roof inspections can help you detect trouble spots on your roof. You can then schedule roof repairs to address the issue before it worsens.

2. You keep your commercial building safe and healthy.

Delaying inspections can result in unforeseen leaks, ultimately resulting in expensive repairs.

Worst case scenario? Gravity forces moisture deep into the building's wood frame and drywall. Mold then infiltrates the interior of the building to the point that the health of the occupants is endangered. Mold growth causes your commercial roofing expenses to skyrocket — mold remediation may even force your business to close for days on end. When moisture makes its way from a leaking roof to the building's interior, it can also lead to short circuits.

Water stagnation can also impact the health and safety of your commercial building. Stagnant water provides a haven for mosquitoes and other insects. Excessive stagnant water can also add more weight to the roof than it can support, weakening its structural integrity.

3. Comply with all relevant codes and standards.

A commercial roof is usually considered a "first line of defense" against high winds, heavy rainfall, and scorching heat. Whenever a roof is blown off during a severe storm, or a roof system collapses, local officials are made more aware of the need to enforce local codes and standards. A commercial roof inspection — followed by timely commercial roof repairs — can help you stay in compliance with local and state regulations and standards.

4. Peace of mind.

Regardless of the season, weather can impact your roof systems. In the winter, ice build-up and the constant freeze-thaw cycles can allow moisture to exploit even slight flaws in an old or damaged roof. In the summer, high surface temperatures can cause flashings and caulking to become brittle and crack, enabling moisture to enter. Professional roofing contractors can help you provide cost-effective roofing solutions that provide long-term peace of mind.

According to private research by Carnegie Mellon University in Pittsburgh, a 30-year service life provided the optimum mix of long-term repair and replacement costs. Scheduling roof inspections twice a year can help you extend the life of your roof and effectively balance the costs of repairs with those of an inevitable roof replacement.

Conclusion

You no longer have to be concerned about the state and integrity of your roof with a routine business roof inspection. So, what are you waiting for? Hire a reputable roofing contractor in your area to diagnose your commercial roofing concerns so you can make informed repair decisions.