No matter if your building is brand new, or 100 years old, the roof is one of the most important structural elements. After all, the roof will not only protect the building from rain, snow and hail; it can also either help keep your building hotter or cooler during extreme temperatures. However, if you want to keep this important structure doing its job, you need to consider roof inspection regularly. But how often is needed? Let us discuss.
The standard rule of thumb in the roofing industry is that you should have your commercial-grade roof inspected twice each year. It is best to have it examined in spring and fall, before entering each extreme season. The reason for this is so the roof will be prepared for the upcoming shift in temperature and potential other dramatic weather ahead. Although it can be challenging to complete this inspection as often as recommended, by doing so you will help prevent damage to your roof from leading to serious problems that can cause leaks and damage to the interior of the building.
The next thing you need to consider when inspecting your roof is whether you should hire a professional or if you should just do it yourself. After all, inspecting your roof shouldn’t be that difficult—should it? The inspection process is more intensive than you may think. It involves more than simply checking for major tears and gaps. In fact, a full-scale checklist should be completed each spring and fall. You should be checking for any number of items, looking at seals around every element and essentially making sure that your roof is 100% perfect and ready to face any problems that may lie ahead. Many companies offer a roof inspection service so make sure you work with a firm that has the know-how and background to complete a full-scale evaluation, and that they will cooperate with you to complete any needed service.
While the twice a year inspection is vital, this is not the only time you need to look at your roof. If you are hiring someone to give your roof a full review in spring and fall, you may want to complete a DIY inspection in the seasons in-between. Perhaps another two times each year, you will want to take a few moments to inspect the roof visually. Then, if there is a major storm or other threat to the roof, also follow up and give a quick inspection at this time too. Completing these can help you find any problems right away before they turn into major issues.
It may seem like there is a lot to think about when it comes to inspecting your roof. While there are a few things to consider, the end goal is so important that it is well worth the effort. Schedule a roof inspection just like you would any other important maintenance task--it could save you and your company time and money.