To cut down on your business’s overhead costs, keep the commercial roofing system in excellent shape. This will prevent air leaks that cause heating and cooling equipment to drain energy. You’ll also avoid the need for time-consuming roof repairs that disrupt the workday. If a flat roof is installed on the building, below is what you need to know about maintaining it. 

How to Care for a Flat Roof

1. Inspect for Damage

While cleaning drainage components, a commercial roofing contractor should also perform a thorough inspection of the membrane. Stress from supporting equipment and fluctuating temperatures can cause small and large cracks and ridges to form along seams and joints.

Water can get into the gaps, making them wider during freeze-thaw cycles. A roofer can patch minor cracks or replace areas with major damage. 

2. Unclog the Drainage System

With flat commercial roofing systems, rainwater and melted snow seep to the drainpipe in the center of the membrane. The water is then channeled through a network of pipes inside the building to the sewage system.

Pooling water could indicate the drainpipe is clogged. So standing water doesn’t deteriorate the roof, a roofer should routinely clean the drain pipe and scuppers to remove blockages. 

3. Stick to a Seasonal Maintenance Plan

A few times a year, have a landscaper trim back tree branches hanging over the roof. During spring showers and summer storms, this will prevent the limbs from scraping or falling on the membrane and puncturing it.

During winter, schedule regular snow removal. This will prevent the snow from building up and weighing down the roof, causing it to collapse.

For professional commercial roofing services, contact the crew at Minneapolis St. Paul Commercial Roofing in Elk River, MN. The company owner personally performs bi-annual inspections to ensure no issue is overlooked. With over 35 years of combined experience, the roofing contractors will provide effective repairs and upkeep to help the system last longer. To schedule a consultation in Sherburne County and learn about the 20-year workmanship and manufacturer warranties, call (612) 424-2688. Go online to see maintenance program details.