Scheduled Roof Maintenance FAQs

An essential component of ensuring the safety of your commercial property, investment, or home is proper roof maintenance.  While all roofs will eventually need to be replaced, they require regular maintenance and inspections in order to perform at their maximum level over their lifespan. According to the National Roofing Contractors Association, the average lifespan of a Florida roof is 25-30 years with proper care. Without regular inspection and maintenance, the life of your roof will be much shorter, costing you thousands of dollars in repair and reroofing, as well as time and stress. 

Elite Roofing Services helps manage your roof, even against the challenges of Florida’s unpredictable weather. However, there are things you can do to maintain your roof and prolong its lifespan.

How Can You Protect Your Roofing System?

1. Maintain Records. Keep a detailed file of all records relating to installation, maintenance, and repair of all your commercial roofs, including manufacturer’s guarantee, inspection reports, repair and maintenance bills, and the original construction drawings, specifications, and invoices. If you need to have repairs made or have additional equipment added to your roof, these records will prove to be helpful in determining what measures need to be taken.
2. Routine Inspections. Twice annually, usually in the fall and spring, perform a complete inspection of your roof. In the fall, check to make sure your roof is ready to endure the winter In the spring, look for any maintenance items that need attention from a rooking professional. If you’re unsure of what to look for or where to start, follow this maintenance checklist.
3. Inspect After Severe Weather. After a hailstorm, severe thunderstorm, or hurricane, inspect your roof for damage – even if there are no noticeable leaks. Your roof might have sustained other damage including loose or missing shingles, broken seals, and shifted insulation. If you notice anything that requires repair, schedule an appointment with a professional as soon as possible. Fixing the repair quickly will be less expensive and prevent further damage.
4. Repair Properly. In addition to following the repair guidelines for the type and quality of roof installed, make sure your roofing repairs are performed by a licensed contractor. Improper repairs are a leading cause of roof issues, so it’s best to get the repairs done right the first time.
5. Keep Your Roof Clean. Debris should be removed from your roof regularly; more often if you’re having repairs or maintenance done. Common debris includes but is not limited to leaves, branches, and rocks. If you’ve had work done on your roof or other areas of your building, check for additional debris such as trash or materials from other trades than might have been left behind. The gutters, drains, and downspouts should also be cleared to ensure proper drainage. Debris can not only puncture your roofing system but it can also result in excess moisture and water ponding due to clogged drains.
6. Keep Metal in Good Condition. Inspect all metal flashings, counterflashings, expansion joints, and pitch pockets for rust, damage or detached metal, and deteriorated sealant. If necessary, reattach any loose or detached metal, and repaint any rusted metal. While minor repairs, water can easily enter through poorly metal competent and compromise your entire roofing system.
7. Keep Masonry In Good Condition. Inspect masonry walls for cracks and bad mortar joints, deteriorated sealant, loose masonry or stones, and areas of water absorption. Repair any issues as needed. Keeping your walls watertight will prevent water infiltration and keep your building leak-free.
8. Maintain Rooftop Equipment. Rooftop equipment can include HVAC systems and ductwork solar panels, skylights, satellite dishes, and antennas. If your roof needs maintenance, the equipment on the roof likely does as well.  Check the roof after service calls to ensure your roof hasn’t been accidentally compromised or damaged.
9. Minimize Rooftop Traffic. Excessive foot and long-term traffic can shorten the lifespan of your roof. Limit roof access to necessary contractors and other licensed personnel. Install walkway pads in high-traffic areas if necessary.

Storm damage, flooding, drainage obstructions, and freak accidents can make roof repair an inevitable part of owning and maintaining a commercial property. When this happens, it’s good to know that Elite Roofing Services of Tampa, Florida provides comprehensive roofing solutions while keeping your best interest at heart. If you would like to receive more information about the commercial roofing repair, roof maintenance, and roofing installation services we provide, contact us at 877-630-0081 or 813-630-0800 today! Follow us on Facebook page for roofing tips.