Best Practices for Commercial Roof Maintenance in St. Louis: A Complete Guide

If you own or manage a commercial building in St. Louis, Missouri, you know how important it is to maintain the roof of your property. Your roof is the first line of defense against the elements, and it is crucial to keep it in good condition to protect your building and the people inside it. In this post, we will cover the best practices for commercial roof maintenance in St. Louis. We’ll discuss everything from routine inspections to emergency repairs, so you can keep your roof in top shape and avoid costly damage.

Why Roof Maintenance is Important

Before we dive into the best practices for commercial roof maintenance, let’s discuss why it’s so important. Regular roof maintenance can:

Extend the lifespan of your roof
Prevent leaks and other damage
Reduce the risk of costly repairs
Ensure the safety of building occupants
Help you comply with building codes and regulations

Now that you understand the importance of roof maintenance, let’s move on to the best practices.

Schedule Regular Inspections

The first step in commercial roof maintenance is to schedule regular inspections. You should have your roof inspected at least twice a year, once in the spring and once in the fall. These inspections should be done by a professional roofing contractor who has experience with commercial roofs.

During the inspection, the contractor will look for signs of damage, such as cracks, holes, and missing shingles. They will also check the flashing around the roof’s edges and penetrations, such as chimneys and vents. If any damage is found, the contractor will provide you with a detailed report and recommend repairs.

Keep the Roof Clean

Keeping your commercial roof clean is another important aspect of maintenance. Leaves, twigs, and other debris can accumulate on your roof and clog your gutters, which can lead to water damage. In addition, moss and algae can grow on your roof, which can cause damage to the shingles.

To keep your roof clean, you should have it professionally cleaned at least once a year. A roofing contractor can remove debris and clean your gutters to ensure proper drainage. They can also use a special solution to kill moss and algae and prevent it from growing back.

Trim Trees Near the Roof

If you have trees near your commercial building, it’s important to keep them trimmed. Overhanging branches can scrape against the roof and damage shingles. In addition, falling branches can cause serious damage to the roof and the people below.

Make sure to hire a professional tree trimming service to trim any trees near your roof. They will know how to safely trim the branches without causing damage.

Repair Damage Promptly

If your roofing contractor identifies any damage during an inspection, it’s important to repair it promptly. Ignoring damage can lead to more extensive damage and costly repairs down the road.

For minor damage, such as a small hole or crack, your contractor may be able to patch it with roofing cement. For more extensive damage, such as a large hole or multiple cracks, you may need to replace the damaged section of the roof.

Monitor for Signs of Damage

In addition to scheduling regular inspections, you should also monitor your roof for signs of damage. If you notice any of the following signs, it’s important to contact your roofing contractor right away:

Water stains on the ceiling
Damp or musty odors inside the building
Sagging or bowing in the roof
Pools of water on the roof

These signs could indicate a serious problem with your roof, such as a leak or structural damage. Your roofing contractor can identify the cause of the problem and recommend the appropriate repairs.

Plan for Emergency Repairs

Even with regular maintenance

and monitoring, emergencies can still happen. That’s why it’s important to have a plan in place for emergency roof repairs.

Make sure to have the contact information for your roofing contractor readily available in case of an emergency. They should be able to respond quickly to any urgent repairs to prevent further damage.

In addition, you should have a plan in place to ensure the safety of building occupants during an emergency. This may include evacuating the building or moving occupants to a safe location until repairs can be made.

Consider Roof Coatings

If your commercial roof is showing signs of wear and tear, you may want to consider applying a roof coating. Roof coatings can extend the life of your roof and provide additional protection against the elements.

There are several types of roof coatings available, including acrylic, silicone, and polyurethane coatings. Your roofing contractor can recommend the best type of coating for your roof based on its condition and your budget.

Work with a Professional Roofing Contractor

Finally, it’s important to work with a professional roofing contractor for all of your commercial roof maintenance needs. A professional contractor will have the experience and knowledge necessary to keep your roof in top condition and ensure the safety of your building occupants.

When choosing a roofing contractor, make sure to choose a company with a good reputation in the St. Louis area. Look for a company that is licensed, insured, and experienced in commercial roofing.

Conclusion

Maintaining your commercial roof is crucial for the safety of your building and its occupants, as well as for the longevity of your roof. By following these best practices for commercial roof maintenance, you can extend the life of your roof, prevent costly repairs, and ensure the safety of everyone in your building.

Remember to schedule regular inspections, keep your roof clean, trim trees near the roof, repair damage promptly, monitor for signs of damage, plan for emergencies, consider roof coatings, and work with a professional roofing contractor. With these practices in place, you can enjoy a well-maintained, long-lasting commercial roof in St. Louis.

If you’re looking for a reliable and professional exteriors company to take care of your home or business, look no further than Family First Exteriors. Our experienced team is dedicated to providing top-notch service and quality workmanship, whether you need a new roof, siding, windows, or gutters.

Don’t wait until the next storm hits to take care of your exterior needs. Contact us today to schedule a consultation and see how we can help protect your property and increase its value. At Family First Exteriors, we put family first in everything we do, and we look forward to serving you and your family’s needs.