Roof Maintenance Resolutions for 2014

We’ve all heard people say that you have to spend money to make money, however, in today’s uncertain economic times, companies across the country aren’t just looking to make money – they’re tightening their belts, battening down the hatches and looking for ways to save money. But even during hard times, it’s important to remember that the old “spending” adage can still hold true for savings, sometimes you have to spend money to save money, especially with regard to a building’s roof.

Although they are perhaps the least visible portion of the buildings, roofs can account for up to 50 percent of a buildings total surface area and they represent up to 25 percent of total building value. By proactively investing resources in building and maintaining a solid roof, building owners may extend the lives of their 15- year roofs to 25-year roofs by heading off leaks and other adverse conditions, which translates into significant long-term cost savings.

All roofs have a limited lifespan and will eventually require replacement, retrofit, repair or restoration. Developing a preventive maintenance plan can further extend the life of a roof and save money by correcting problems before they become major leaks that could cause structural damage. Over time, a roof asset management program can optimize roof performance, save money and allow for roof replacement or repairs on a planned basis – not in reaction to a crisis.

A good roof management program should include annual or semi-annual inspections to look for damages, including:

• Membrane deterioration
  
• Blisters
  
• Ponding Water
• Sealant deterioration
  

• Rusting metal
  
• Membrane splits
  
• Debris build up
  
• Wet insulation
  
  If the roof shows signs of deterioration, the inspector may recommend moisture testing. These can be performed in several different ways, both destructive (cutting the roof) and non-destructive.
  
  The most popular moisture scan is the infrared, coupled with confirming core samples.
  
  Roof management programs can be custom designed to fit both need and budget of the customer. A simple cursory visual roof examination and report with pictures of deficiencies is a cost effective way to get started.
  
  Facilities with multiple roofs or buildings may want to consider a complete management program that keeps track of all roof by section and building, makes budgets for 1- 5 years on repairs and/or replacements and allows the customer to view everything on line.
  
  Ultimately, the goal of a comprehensive roof management program is to protect the interest of the building owners, extend the life of the roof and prevent costly leaks and damage. In today’s business climate, many building owners and businesses are understandably looking for ways to cut costs. Involving a qualified roofing contractor to administer an ongoing maintenance program will end up saving you more than you spend.

If you would like more information on how to save money and your roof, call Jim Rose to set up an appointment to discuss your facility’s exterior maintenance needs and get a complimentary commercial roof inspection.

January 2014 Volume 6 Number 1

459 Allied Dr. • Conway, S.C. 29526 • 843-347-2220 • Fax: 843-347-9719 www.spannroofing.com