Roof inspections are crucial to maintaining the health and safety of your roof. However, the process varies depending on the type of roof on your commercial property. Each roof has its own unique set of features. Naturally, they call for different approaches. Commercial property owners must know what to expect when conducting roof inspections. Let’s look at three types of roofs and what you should expect regarding their inspection.
Flat Roofs
Most commercial structures have flat roofs as they are cost-effective and spacious. Their main drawback is water pooling. They have a minimal slope, which hinders drainage. So, don’t be surprised when you see water accumulation during inspections. Professionals pay close attention to areas where water may pool to identify drainage issues.
Your drainage system must be adequate. The gutters, downspouts, and drains must be clear of dirt and debris. Similarly, there might be blistering or bubbles in the roofing material. This is due to trapped moisture. You might see cracks or tears in the membrane, too. Inspectors must check for signs of water infiltration through the roofing material.
You can also expect to see signs of sagging on your flat roof. This might be due to trapped moisture or structural weakness. In the latter case, professionals will evaluate your roof’s load-bearing capacity. Then, they might decide on the necessary repairs and reinforcements to prevent further damage.
Sloped Roofs
Slope roofs are the most common type of roof in houses and other residential properties. However, you can find them in unique commercial buildings, churches, or other places of worship. These can be shingle, tiled, or metal roofs. Shingle roofs are the most common, making up 81% of the overall demand for residential roofing in 2023.
Inspectors must carefully look for cracked, damaged, or curling shingles on roofs. There might also be signs of wear on the granules of asphalt shingles. Then, they must check the flashing for signs of rust or corrosion. These, along with vents and chimneys, are locations where leaks might occur. Not checking the areas can cause water infiltration and poor ventilation, leading to mold growth and excessive heat buildup.
Along with the slope, gutters, and downspouts also play a significant role in channeling water away. So, you must hire professionals to check for leaks, rust, or blockages. Regularly clean your gutters and downspouts, especially after heavy winds or rainfall.
Green Roofs
Public structures like eco-friendly government buildings, schools, and libraries may have green roofs. The inspection process for these is complex and will likely require inspection specialists. Here are a few things to look out for when getting your commercial building’s green roof inspected:
- Waterproof membrane condition: Green roofs have a waterproof membrane beneath the soil layer. This protects the building from water damage. You must ensure there are no signs of wear or leakage here.
- Irrigation system checks: Most green roofs have an irrigation system to hydrate the plants. Inspectors must ensure there are no clogs here. Inadequate irrigation can cause the plants to die, deteriorating the quality of your green roof.
- Drainage system inspection: Since plants require quite a lot of water, waterlogging or flooding may occur on the green roof. So, make sure your drainage system is functioning correctly with no blockages.
- Plant health: If the plants on your green roof are not thriving, there might be an issue with the growing medium or water retention. Have experts assess the health of the vegetation. They must check for overgrowth, poor drainage, or lack of sunlight. Then, in case of any problem— for example, poor water retention— they can adjust the growing medium and add organic matter to improve moisture.
The Cost Of Roof Inspection
How much does a commercial roof inspection cost? Just like the process, the costs also vary. For instance, green roofs are the most expensive to inspect, as you must assess both the membrane and plant health.
Here are three main factors that determine the cost structure:
- Size and accessibility: Large roofs will naturally cost more to inspect. Similarly, inspecting inaccessible roofs, like those on high-rise buildings, will also be costly.
- Condition and age: Damaged, old roofs require more extensive inspections. You will likely have to pay more for detailed assessments.
- Location and market rates: Inspections in urban areas will likely be more expensive due to the region’s cost framework.
Endnote
While inspections vary with roof type, the main goal is to ensure your roof is in good shape to withstand elements and keep the inhabitants happy. Only this will enhance your property’s value and lengthen its lifespan. Read this article to expand your knowledge of roof inspections and keep your commercial property functional and long-lasting.