Having a commercial roof inspection is like going to the dentist: nobody wants to do it, but it's necessary to avoid a painful and costly cavity. While a trip to the dentist may not be the most exciting activity in the world, a commercial roof inspection is far less painful, and can even be an adventure in discovering hidden issues and potential problems lurking on your rooftop.
At RoofCrafters, we’ve been conducting commercial roof inspections for the past 30 years, and we know that much like going to the dentist, preventative measures are always the best course of action. Whether you’ve got a chipped molar or a business that needs its roof checked, or both (we’re not judging), out of sight out of mind doesn’t necessarily work out in your favor in this situation - for the molar and the roof!
The upkeep of your commercial business may not be the most glamorous part of being a property owner, but it’s an important one. If you’re reading this article, it’s safe to assume you’ve got some questions about what a commercial roof inspection entails. You’re in luck because, by the end, you’ll learn exactly what an inspection is, what to expect during the process, who’s qualified to assist you, and if it’s time for your roof to visit the doc. So, let’s get started!
What Is a Commercial Roof Inspection?
Let’s get into the basics! A commercial roof inspection is a thorough evaluation of the condition of a roof on a commercial building, such as an office building, warehouse, or retail space. The inspection is typically conducted by a qualified roofing professional who will assess the condition of the roof and identify any potential problems or areas of concern. During the inspection, the roofing professional will typically perform a visual inspection of the roof surface, checking for signs of damage, wear, and tear. They may also inspect the roof's drainage system, including gutters and downspouts, to ensure proper water flow.
In addition to the visual inspection, the roofing professional may also use specialized equipment, such as infrared cameras, to detect any areas of moisture or leaks that may not be visible to the naked eye. The goal of a commercial roof inspection is to identify any potential problems early on so that they can be addressed before they become more serious and costly to repair. This can help to extend the life of the roof and prevent water damage, which can be a major problem for commercial buildings.
What Can I Expect Out of My Commercial Roofing Inspection?
During a commercial roofing inspection, you can expect the roofing professional to evaluate the condition of your roof and identify any areas of concern. Here are some specific things you can expect during a commercial roofing inspection:
- Visual inspection: The estimator will perform a visual inspection of your roof's surface, checking for signs of damage, wear, and tear. They will look for any cracks, punctures, or other damage that could lead to leaks or other problems.
- Roof drainage inspection: The roofing professional will inspect the drainage system of your roof, including gutters and downspouts, to ensure that water is flowing properly off the roof.
- Infrared inspection: They may use specialized equipment, such as infrared cameras, to detect any areas of moisture or leaks that may not be visible to the naked eye.
- Inspection of roof penetrations: The roofing professional will inspect any roof penetrations, such as vents, skylights, and HVAC units, to ensure that they are properly sealed and not causing any leaks or other problems.
- Inspection of roof flashing: They will inspect the flashing around the roof's edges and penetrations to ensure that they are properly installed and sealed.
- Identification of areas of concern: Based on their inspection, your estimator will identify any areas of concern and provide recommendations for repair or maintenance.
Overall, a commercial roofing inspection is an important step in maintaining the integrity of your roof and preventing costly damage to your building. After your inspection, it is recommended to schedule regular commercial roofing inspections to ensure that any issues are addressed early on.
When Is the Best Time for My Commercial Roof Inspection?
The best time to have a commercial roof inspection depends on several factors, such as the age and condition of your roof, the climate of your location, and any recent weather events. Generally, it is recommended to schedule a commercial roof inspection at least once a year, preferably in the spring or fall when the weather is mild and the roof is not covered in snow or ice if you live in a colder region. In the spring, it is a good time to assess any damage caused by winter weather, such as ice dams, heavy snowfall, or strong winds. Your estimator can also check for any damage caused by spring storms, such as hail or high winds.
Who Should Conduct My Inspection?
Your commercial roof inspection should be conducted by a qualified and experienced roofing professional. It is important to choose a reputable roofing company with a proven track record of providing quality services and customer satisfaction. When selecting a roofing company for your commercial roof inspection, consider factors such as their experience, credentials, and certifications. Look for a company that specializes in commercial roofing and has experience working with the type of roof on your building.
You should also ensure that the company you choose has liability insurance and workers' compensation insurance to protect yourself in case of any accidents or damages that occur during the inspection. It is also a good idea to ask for references and read reviews from previous customers to ensure that the roofing company has a good reputation for quality workmanship and customer service.
Is It Time for My Commercial Roof Inspection?
If you’ve made it this far and you’re asking yourself, “Is it time for my inspection?”, the answer is probably yes. As you now know, commercial roofing inspections are a critical part of building maintenance and can help prevent costly damage to your property. By identifying potential issues early on, such as leaks, cracks, or other forms of damage, commercial roofing inspections can help prevent more extensive damage to your building's interior and structure. Regular inspections also help to ensure that your roof complies with local building codes and safety regulations.
Another important reason to have regular commercial roofing inspections is to extend the lifespan of your roof. A well-maintained roof can last significantly longer than one that is neglected or not properly maintained. Additionally, regular commercial roofing inspections can provide peace of mind for building owners and property managers.
By knowing that your roof is in good condition, you can avoid unexpected repair costs and ensure that your building remains safe and secure for tenants, employees, and customers. If you haven't had a commercial roofing inspection recently, go ahead and click the “schedule inspection” button down below, and one of our representatives will contact you as soon as possible to get your appointment in the books!
