The roof is every commercial
building’s first line of defense against the elements. Since commercial
building roofs are usually flat and wide, they are often more prone to early
wear than residential roofs. Experts agree, most flat commercial roofing
systems last an average of 15-20 years if properly maintained, depending on the
material used.
Commercial roofing damage
occurs for a variety of reasons. The roof could be old and have already
deteriorated beyond repair. Membranes can easily crack, shrink, or puncture
which lets water seep into the roof’s insulation. If roof penetrations, like
HVAC units, gas lines, pipes, and drains, are not properly sealed with
watertight materials, they can put everything underneath them at risk of water
damage. Since flat roofs aren’t sloped, water can pool and add significant
strain on the roofing system, particularly if the drains are clogged.
A failing commercial roof puts
the entire building at risk of costly damage. For instance, it can be a fire
hazard when water leaks come into contact with electrical wires. Mold and
mildew can also accumulate within the building which can trigger respiratory
illnesses such as asthma, rhinitis and nasal congestion among workers and
customers. Furthermore, insulation damage as a result of water intrusion can
also result in higher utility bills.
To minimize risk of damage,
building managers should conduct regular, scheduled inspections and preventive
maintenance, especially on roofing components such as drains, flashing, and
vents. It would also be best to add a reflective coating to the roof’s surface
to help combat the wearing effect of excessive sun exposure. For those looking
for commercial roofing solutions in Kansas, trusted contractors like Easton
Roofing Company can help.
Source: Protection from the Top: The Importance of Commercial Roof Cover
Maintenance and Repair, DisasterSafety.org
No comments:
Post a Comment