As a commercial building owner, you must regularly inspect and maintain your roofing system to keep it in optimal condition.
A comprehensive commercial roof inspection is a cost-effective solution that can help you identify potential issues with your roofing system and prevent it from becoming expensive to repair job later down the road.
Generally, a commercial roof inspection is designed to assess the condition of a roofing system to identify any issues, risks, or costs that need to be addressed soon.
Performed by a qualified, experienced roofing contractor, these roofing inspections can help keep buildings, businesses, and homes solid and secure.
At its core, a commercial roof inspection includes a thorough examination of the roof deck, followed by an inspection report that outlines any issues or risks identified during the roof inspection.
During this process, the roofing contractor will look for leaks, cracks, stains, or deterioration of the system and the roof deck, then recommend a cost-effective solution whenever necessary.
What Are the Most Important Items to Check When Inspecting Your Roof?
When it comes to commercial building owners, the responsibility to maintain a safe building environment is very critical.
Undertaking regular maintenance of the building itself and its roof is a cost-effective solution that can help ensure your property is in good condition and remains safe.
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Evaluate the Roof System
First, it is essential to evaluate the condition of the roofing deck by taking a core sample of the system.
The deck is the main component, and the base of a roof structure comprises layers of plywood, treated timber, and insulation.
During the inspection, it is essential to look out for any cracks, joints, or signs of rot that could cause water to enter the building and damage the contents.
Track the condition of any fasteners or bolts installed in the deck. Loose fasteners on roofs generally indicate a need for roof repairs.
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Check for Water Stains
Another vital element to consider is possible water stains or signs of water damage.
These can be found on the ceiling and walls of the building and should be inspected for any water pooling or signs of ashen discoloration.
If signs of water damage are found, it may indicate a leak in your roofing structure, and this should be addressed as soon as possible.
Luckily, many companies now provide free inspections, which building owners on a tight budget can take advantage of quickly.
Ever wondered what happens during a commercial roof inspection? Our latest blog post demystifies the process. #CommercialRoofing #RoofingGuide
Read the complete blog here:https://t.co/rfv6gEH9ui pic.twitter.com/SMmB5lrOOE— Austin Roofing & Water Damage | WDR (@WDRofAustin) July 21, 2023
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Ask for a Detailed Report
It is also crucial to ask for a detailed roof inspection report from the roofing contractor.
In general, inspection reports should include an overall assessment of the roof, details of the deck and its components, an overview of any water entry points, a list of any remedial works needed, and core samples and scans to help identify the problematic areas.
Conducting regular roof checks is essential for any building. It is important from a safety perspective and can help you save thousands of dollars in repairs and replacement costs in the future.
What Does Commercial Roof Inspection Include?
Property owners are constantly trying to find the most cost-effective solution for their roofing needs. When it comes to such projects, a commercial roof inspection is paramount.
There are a few things your commercial roof inspection checklist should consist of, which we’ll list down below for convenience:
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Check the Entire Structure
A roofing contractor will review various items during the roof inspection, such as the condition of the system as a whole, any water signs, and core samples taken of different deck areas.
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Written Report
In addition to the physical inspection, a commercial roof inspection also includes a report detailing the roofing contractor’s findings, components, and recommendations. The core sample might also be taken to a laboratory for further investigation.
The inspection report should include details such as the deck’s condition and materials, any reconstruction needed, and suggestions for the most affordable solution.
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Ask for Quotes
Free inspections will include checking for any existing sealants, flashings, and other material systems necessary for the roof’s integrity.
Afterward, the report and core sample should address any safety hazards associated with the structure, inspection costs, and repairs needed.
Upon completion, the commercial roof inspection report and the core sample results are then provided to the building owners and managers for their review and feedback.
At the end of the day, property owners must remember that a roof inspection is essential for protecting their property and preserving the system’s integrity.
It also gives building owners peace of mind that their roofs are in their best condition. Finally, it shows how getting contractors to do an inspection and repair is not only cost-effective but is also a much safer option than not investigating the roof in the first place.
How Much Does a Commercial Roof Inspection Cost?
If you’re a business property owner, the cost of roof maintenance can vary depending on the size and complexity of the system.
The cost of a generic roof inspection is usually based on the structure’s complexity and the job’s size. Generally, getting a repair can range between $1,000 to $3,000 for an average roof.
However, the cost may also depend on how the contractor conducts the roofing inspection and the type of materials used in the job.
For instance, if you’re doing roofing inspections to check for potential problems, such as leaks or ponding water, more detailed investigations will typically cost a lot.
Likewise, core samples may also be needed to perform roof investigation, resulting in additional costs.
On the other hand, a roof inspection done to check for general maintenance issues or small remedial works can often be done at a lower cost by the roofer.
Before hiring a roofing expert for an inspection, it’s essential to shop around and get quotes from multiple contractors to compare prices and ensure you get the best deal.
How Long Should a Commercial Roofing Structure Last?
Aside from the safety aspect, a healthy and functioning commercial roofing structure is essential to the operation of your company.
A strong and secure roof ensures the workers and customers of your business can remain confident and comfortable.
By investing in timely inspections, you are working for the successful future of your company. Here are some other factors that can contribute to premature roof failure:
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Ponding water
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Cracked concrete
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Improper installation
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Shingle aging
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Harsh weather conditions
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Material quality
Detailed roof investigations can identify any of these issues, allowing contractors to make timely mends before any costly replacements are necessary.
Although there is no one-size-fits-all answer to how long a commercial roofing structure will last, the average lifespan of a commercialized roof can be between 10 and 20 years under typical conditions.
What Is a Forensic Roof Inspection Like?
Forensic roof inspections are critical to any owner’s roof maintenance routine.
A skilled building contractor will be able to perform a thorough and accurate assessment of a roof’s condition to ensure that remedial work is necessary or even possible.
During this process, a building contractor will take various core samples, readings, and measurements to assess the performance of the roof.
This could include checking the roof’s paint, measuring the pitch, mapping out the installation of components, and inspecting the overall condition.
In addition, a roofer might also take a core sample of the roof’s materials to get a better idea of the quality of the roofing material beneath the surface.
By performing an in-depth forensic roofing inspection, contractors can identify potential problems, such as rotting wood, water damage, cracked shingles, or failing seals.
They can also investigate the cause of a roof leak, helping to identify the leading cause and determine where reconstruction is needed.
Working with a qualified professional to perform this critical assessment is your best bet for a thorough and accurate inspection to ensure that you are making a wise investment and that your roof will remain sound for many years.
Final Words
Timely roofing inspections and remedial works are essential for prolonging the life of your roof.
Working with reliable roofing contractors who understand proper roof installation, maintenance, and replacements can be the difference between a roof that lasts and one that fails prematurely.
As a company owner, investing in the longevity of your roof is essential for the safety and comfort of your employees and customers, and you shouldn’t compromise on anything.