Service & Maintenance

Service & Maintenance of Your Commercial Roofing System

Good roofs don't leak all the time, but ALL roofs leak at some point in time. A service & maintenance contract will keep your roofing system functioning properly and free of leaks for as long as possible. Maintaining a commercial roofing system is crucial for the longevity of the roof and the safety of the building's occupants. Regular service and maintenance can prevent costly repairs, extend the roof's lifespan, and ensure that the building remains safe and secure. This comprehensive guide will cover everything you need to know about the service and maintenance of commercial roofing system.

The Reasons Why Roofs Leak

1. Acts of God
2. Negligence
3. Lack of Maintenance
4. End of Life

Importance of Regular Maintenance

1. Prolongs Roof Life: Regular maintenance can significantly extend the life of your commercial roof. By addressing minor issues before they become major problems, you can avoid the need for premature roof replacement.
2. Prevents Costly Repairs: Early detection of potential issues can save you from expensive repairs down the line. Regular inspections and maintenance help identify and fix problems before they escalate.
3. Ensures Safety: A well-maintained roof ensures the safety of the building's occupants. Regular checks can prevent accidents caused by leaks, structural damage, or other roofing issues.
4. Maintains Warranty: Many roofing warranties require regular maintenance to remain valid. Neglecting maintenance can void your warranty, leaving you responsible for any repair costs.

Key Components of a Commercial Roofing Maintenance Plan

1. Regular Inspections: JRS techs conduct regular inspections to identify potential issues. Inspections should be conducted at least twice a year, preferably in the spring and fall, and after any major weather events.
2. Cleaning and Debris Removal: Keep the roof clean and free of debris. Leaves, branches, and other debris can clog drains and cause water to pool, leading to leaks and structural damage.
3. Drainage System Maintenance: We ensure that the roof's drainage system is functioning correctly. Regularly check and clean gutters, downspouts, and drains to prevent water buildup.
4. Repair Minor Issues Promptly: JRS will address minor issues such as small leaks, cracks, seam failures, or punctures immediately. Ignoring these problems can lead to more significant damage over time.
5. Documentation and Record-Keeping: JRS maintains detailed records of all inspections, maintenance, and repairs. This documentation can be crucial for warranty claims and future maintenance planning.

Types of Commercial Roofing Systems and Their Maintenance Needs

1. Flat Roofs: Flat roofs are common in commercial buildings and require regular maintenance to prevent water pooling and leaks. Regular inspections, cleaning, and prompt repairs are essential.
2. Asphalt Shingles: Asphalt shingles, especially on larger commercial facets, are prone to cracking, crazing, blistering, and blow off. Plus, face nailed or exposed nail heads and certain flashing must be re-sealed on a regular basis.
3. Metal Roofs: Metal roofs are durable but can be prone to rust and corrosion. Regular cleaning, inspections for rust, and applying protective coatings can extend the life of a metal roof.
4. Single-Ply Roofing: Single-ply roofing systems, such as TPO and EPDM, require regular inspections for punctures, tears, and seam integrity. Prompt repairs and periodic re-coating and re-seaming can help maintain these roofs.
5. Built-Up Roofing (BUR): BUR systems consist of multiple layers of asphalt or membranes that are typically ballasted by rock. Regular inspections for cracks, blisters, and water damage are necessary. Periodic re-coating can also help maintain the roof's integrity.
6. Spray Foam Roofing: Spray foam roofs provide excellent insulation but require regular inspections for cracks and punctures. Re-coating the foam can help maintain its protective properties.

Considerations for an Effective Maintenance Plan

1. Hire a Professional Roofing Contractor: Engage a reputable roofing contractor with experience in commercial roofing systems. They can provide expert inspections, maintenance, and repairs.
2. Maintenance Schedule: Does the vendor have a maintenance schedule that includes regular inspections, cleaning, and repairs?
3. Training & Credentials: Ensure that your vendor's maintenance staff is properly trained and certified to identify and address common roofing issues.
4. Quality Materials: Make sure your vendor uses high-quality materials for repairs and maintenance. This can prevent future issues, extend the life of your roof, and ensure warranties remain valid.
5. Monitor Weather Conditions: Does your service & maintenance vendor monitor and inspect for weather related damage? Additional inspections after severe weather events are crucial to ensure you are fully indemnified from any damage that a service & maintenance agreement may not cover.

Common Maintenance Tasks for Commercial Roofs

1. Flashings: Flashings are critical components that seal roof edges, penetrations, and other areas prone to leaks. JRS regularly inspects flashings for damage and ensure they are properly sealed.
2. Ponding or Pooling Water: Ponding water can lead to leaks and structural damage. JRS ensures that the roof's drainage system is functioning correctly and will address any areas where water tends to pool.
3. Inspecting Roof Membranes: JRS will check roof membranes for punctures, tears, and seam integrity and promptly repair any damage to prevent leaks.
4. Roof Penetrations: Roof penetrations, such as vents and skylights, are common sources of leaks. JRS regularly inspects these areas and applies any needed sealant to ensure they remain functional.

Advanced Maintenance Techniques

1. Infrared Scanning: Infrared scanning can detect moisture and insulation issues that are not visible to the naked eye. JRS uses this technology to help identify hidden problems and prevent costly repairs.
2. Drone Inspections: Drones can provide detailed aerial inspections of large commercial roofs. JRS uses this technology to help identify issues in hard-to-reach areas and provide a comprehensive view of the roof's condition.
3. Moisture Detection: JRS uses machines, such as Tramex DEC Scanners and Protimer ReachMaster Pros when necessary to detect hidden areas of concern.