A commercial roof is more complex and expansive than a residential roof, making its upkeep more difficult to sustain. However, with the right features, a commercial roof can be easy to maintain — saving property owners and managers time and effort in the long run.
In this post, Ben’s Construction Inc. discusses the characteristics that make a commercial roof maintainable. We also explore the benefits of this kind of roofing system and the various ways a reliable contractor can help with your commercial roofing needs.
A commercial roof often has various penetrations, such as HVAC units, vents and skylights. These components are essential for the building’s functionality but can pose challenges if not properly placed.
Make sure there is ample space around penetrations so it will be easier for maintenance and repair personnel to access and work on these components. This also ensures that routine upkeep or necessary fixes can be carried out efficiently.
Moreover, by placing penetrations at least 1 foot away from the roof’s edges and other rooftop items, you can minimize the risk of interference. This separation helps avoid damage to the roofing structure during maintenance procedures.
Effective drainage is vital for a maintainable commercial roof. Excessive standing water can lead to severe problems such as roof leaks, structural damage, and vegetation growth, considerably reducing the roof’s lifespan.
Ensure that the roof design incorporates a reliable drainage system to prevent water ponding, which can lead to leaks and structural damage. Opt for professional gutter installation and make sure the roof has sufficient slope to promote natural water drainage and minimize the risk of standing water.
When adding equipment like HVAC units or vents to your commercial roof, adhering to industry guidelines regarding their placement and elevation is essential. Elevating HVAC units, solar panels, satellite dishes and other equipment to the appropriate height ensures that maintenance and repair personnel can easily access them.
Proper clearance reduces the risk of roof damage and eases access for maintenance and repair. The equipment size often dictates how high it needs to be placed, but a minimum clearance of 12 inches is usually recommended for maximum equipment efficiency and roof accessibility.
Enhancing a commercial roof’s maintainability also involves strategically placing water barriers. Begin by identifying vulnerable areas where water infiltration is likely to occur on your commercial roof. These areas often include expansion joints, roof penetrations and seams in the roofing membrane.
Install expansion joint covers made of durable materials like ethylene propylene diene terpolymer or thermoplastic olefin. These covers effectively seal the joints, preventing water intrusion. Properly install flashing around roof penetrations and seams in the roofing membrane, using high-quality sealant to create a watertight bond. Install rain collars around roof penetrations such as pipes and vents. These collars act as barriers, preventing water from entering through these openings.
Access to the roof is crucial to its maintainability. Installing secure access points, such as dedicated doors or roof hatches, ensures a safe means of conducting maintenance tasks.
However, it’s crucial to implement access control measures on the rooftop to minimize unnecessary traffic, which may result in damage. This practice also guarantees that only qualified professionals can carry out inspections and maintenance assignments.
To enhance the maintainability of a commercial roof, it is recommended to minimize ledges at the corners. Ledges have the potential to accumulate debris and water, leading to stagnant water that can negatively affect the roof’s longevity and upkeep.
By limiting the presence of ledges at corners, you reduce the likelihood of debris buildup and subsequent water blockages, simplifying roof maintenance.
Adding a two-piece counterflashing system on a parapet wall is another crucial feature of a maintainable commercial roof. This system has one part on the wall and another on the roof, making it easy to replace the roof membrane without affecting the wall membrane flashing. This separation streamlines maintenance procedures, making them more cost-effective and contributing to the roof’s extended lifespan.
Placing pipes directly on the roof can cause wear and tear, which may further result in leaks. A proper pipe support system elevates the pipes, eliminating direct contact with the roof and safeguarding the roof’s integrity.
Furthermore, a well-implemented pipe support system ensures that pipes are securely positioned and easily accessible for inspection and maintenance. Maintenance personnel can conduct routine checks and repairs without extensive roof surface disruption.
These advantages underscore the importance of a maintainable commercial roof in terms of cost-effectiveness, longevity, and the overall well-being of the building and its occupants.
When you have a maintainable commercial roof, any roofing problems are detected early. This proactive approach can help prevent the need for emergency repairs that could disrupt business operations.
A maintainable roof reduces the need for extensive repairs and replacements, saving you money in the long run. Proper maintenance and design contribute to a longer-lasting roof, delaying the need for a costly replacement and associated disruptions.
Minimal ledges at the corners and limited roof access are safety-oriented design features restricting unauthorized access and related accidents. These protections ensure the roof’s integrity and create a safer environment for those in and around the building.
Good drainage and sufficient water barriers are vital in mitigating water-related damage. These features manage rainwater effectively, preventing it from pooling and seeping into the building structure, which can cause substantial damage and health issues from mold growth.
By preventing roof leaks and water damage, you can ensure the interior of your commercial building is protected. This way, you can also avoid costly repairs and downtime.
Many roofing warranties include a requirement for regular maintenance. To keep your warranty valid, you must perform and document scheduled roof maintenance. A maintainable roof design makes it easy to meet these requirements.
If you care about the environment, choosing a sustainable approach for commercial roofing is a good idea. A maintainable roof helps with environmental sustainability by making your roof last longer and reducing waste from premature replacements.
A well-maintained roof can boost the overall value and marketability of your commercial property. It suggests that potential tenants or buyers won’t have to worry about disruptions or expenses from frequent repairs.
With professional help from a reliable roofing contractor like Ben’s Construction Inc., you can ensure the longevity and durability of your commercial roof. In addition, we offer a comprehensive range of services, including home renovations and siding installation. Call us at (508) 962-2417 or complete our contact form to schedule a consultation.
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