Protecting the investment you’ve made in a flat roof is key to your overall profitability for a number of reasons. Flat roofs come with tons of advantages, including their relatively low installation and upkeep costs. Their design also fits in well with several different types of architectural aesthetics and they’re more easily accessible than sloped roofs. In fact, it’s because of these advantages that building owners can sometimes neglect to perform the regular maintenance these roofs require. Out of sight, out of mind. It’s important to think of the many reasons to keep up with your roof’s preventative maintenance.

Benefits of Commercial Roof Maintenance

Proactive and preventative maintenance for your flat roof has more perks than most facility managers and business owners might be aware of. Overall, each of them can be great news for your budget.

Prolonged Roof Service Life

Your roof’s life cycle cost is the amount of money you can be typically expected to pay over the life of your roof. When proactive maintenance is done regularly, that cost can be reduced. This can also help prolong the service life of your roof, saving you potentially costly repairs in the future and preventing untimely replacements. Just as the roof itself, is an investment, so is its maintenance.

Prevent Potential Future Problems

By keeping up with regular maintenance, any potential problems can be noticed and addressed before major issues arise. Checking the seams to make sure they’re properly secured can help prevent leaks (and rust). Flashing and penetrations should be inspected to ensure no damage is found, as this can also lead to leaks and rust.

Protect Interiors and Exteriors

Midwest weather is no joke. Our winters are harsh and the snow, ice, and wind can wreak havoc on a roof. In the summer, we get more wind, rain, and humidity. Temperature fluctuations and UV rays will also loosen bolts and stretch seams over time. Damaging weather can cause dents, scratches, and other damage. All of these things can add up and lead to leaks. Those leaks can lead to further damage inside your building. Regular maintenance means you’re taking a closer look at your roof more often, so you’re more likely to catch these issues before they cause serious damage.

Tenant Retention

When you neglect your roof, it can lead to damage, which can come in the form of leaks. These leaks can become headaches and even damage products, office supplies, and more. If your building houses tenants who pay rent, that can lead to a high turnover rate because no one wants to deal with these issues when they can simply leave. By performing regular preventative maintenance, you show your tenants that you respect and appreciate their operation. Even if a leak happens, your tenants understand that you do all you can in your power to prevent such issues.

Keep Drains and Scuppers Clear

A roof scupper is a drainage outlet that runs water off of a flat roof through a raised roof edge or wall. Scuppers allow water to enter through the roof deck, where it’s channeled through a pipe system below. Scuppers and drains need to be kept clear of debris to remain fully operational. When a scupper or drainage system is clogged with mud, leaves, or any other debris, water can get backed up and sit on your roof, leading to leaks, rust, and other potential damage that’s costly to repair. Regular maintenance can keep your roof scuppers and drains clear, protecting your wallet.

Finding a Flat Roof Specialist

With so many excellent reasons to keep up on preventative maintenance with your flat roof, it’s really a no-brainer. Finding a professional roof inspector is the next step.

Duerson Corporation’s Professional Roof Maintenance Plan

Our professional roofing team can help you plan for Midwest weather with a custom designed maintenance plan for your flat roof. A free roof analysis can tell you more about the shape your roof is in and what kind of regular maintenance should take place. Schedule a free roof analysis and inspection with one of our trained Duro-Last® roofing specialists. You will receive photographs of your roof as well as an evaluation of how long your current roof is expected to be operational, plus suggestions about any replacements or repairs it may need.