Commercial buildings face many dangers that can put the integrity of the roofing system at risk. A roof inspection helps spot trouble areas and ensures the structure is in good condition. However, you need to know how to do this properly to avoid potentially costly mistakes. Here’s a detailed guide on conducting a thorough roof inspection from United Contracting & Roofing LLC in Greenville, SC.

Timing Is Everything

When planning to inspect your roof, it’s essential to set a schedule. Ideally, the roof should be inspected twice a year, although once may be sufficient. If planning two inspections, one should be before winter to ensure the roof will hold up under cold weather conditions. The second inspection should be after winter to check for any damage that may have occurred. Early detection is key to spotting problems before they become severe.

In areas prone to heavy storms, schedule an inspection just after a storm to check for damage and ensure the roof held up well.

Check the Interior First

Though it’s a roof inspection, start by checking the interior of the building. Many signs of water and roof damage are visible from inside, including:

  • Water stains
  • Mold
  • Drips or leaks
  • Mildew
  • Peeling paint

Spotting these signs means your outdoor inspection should be extra thorough, ensuring you find the source of any leaks before they worsen.

Do a Visual Check of the Roof

The inspection should include checking for visible signs of damage. Often, visible signs indicate more damage underneath. Look for:

  • Blistering
  • Cracks
  • Abrasions
  • Tears
  • Moss
  • Scratches
  • Holes

These issues are usually found on the roof membrane and should be visible to the naked eye. Such signs may indicate more extensive damage.

Examine the Drainage System

Problems arise if the drainage system isn’t working properly. Accumulated dirt or debris in the pipes or gutters can lead to water backup and standing water. Check the functionality of the drains and the seal integrity. A broken or cracked seal can allow water to flow around it, causing more damage.

Inspect the Structure of the Roof

The structure and equipment of the roof must be checked next. If you have flashing on your roof, ensure it is structurally sound. Any gap or crack means water can flow between it and the roof rather than away from the structure. Check expansion joints for any cracks or tears, as they can indicate excessive movement.

Look at Additional Equipment

Roofs often have pipes and vents, which can be damaged from exposure to the elements. Part of the inspection involves checking for structural damage or blockages, such as rust, chipped paint, leaves, or moss.

Assess the Safety of the Roof

Ensure the roof is secure, including stairs, railings, platforms, and crossovers. These should all be securely attached without wobbling or loose parts. Appropriate signage for safety purposes is also crucial to inform employees of potential injuries. Fix any threats immediately, whether due to lack of signage or wear and tear.

Schedule Your Roof Inspection

Your roof is integral to your business, even if you don’t think about it daily. Conduct regular inspections to keep it in good shape and protect everything inside your building. Schedule inspections to ensure the soundness of your roof, arrange for maintenance, or make repairs as soon as possible to avoid further damage.

Conclusion

Conducting a thorough roof inspection is essential to maintaining the integrity of your commercial building. Regular inspections can help you catch problems early, ensuring your roof remains in good condition and protecting your business from costly repairs. Schedule your roof inspection today with United Contracting & Roofing LLC to safeguard your investment.If you want to know more about How Rising Energy Costs Could Indicate It’s Time for Commercial Re-Roofing, click here.