Free Estimate
Request Service
Locations 
The commercial roof of your business is essential for protecting your employees and business operations from the elements. However, roofs can deteriorate over time due to wear and tear, which can lead to leaks, damage, and other problems. By maintaining your commercial roof regularly, you can help to extend its lifespan and prevent costly repairs. Research indicates that regular maintenance can extend a commercial roof’s average lifespan from 10–15 years to 20–25 years.
To get started, here are some general tips for maintaining your commercial roof:
- Inspect your roof semi-annually (ideally spring and fall) for signs of damage, such as leaks, cracks, or missing shingles.
- Clean your roof regularly to remove debris and dirt that can clog gutters and prevent water from draining properly.
- Repair any damage to your roof as soon as possible to prevent it from getting worse.
- Replace your roof when it reaches the end of its lifespan.
By following these tips, you can help keep your commercial roof in good condition and protect your business from the elements.
| Maintenance Task | Frequency | Primary Benefit |
|---|---|---|
| Full Roof Inspection | Semi-annually (spring & fall) | Early problem detection |
| Drainage System Cleaning | Quarterly or as needed | Prevent water pooling |
| Debris Removal | Quarterly or after storms | Prevent membrane damage |
| Sealant & Flashing Check | Annually | Maintain waterproofing |
| Ventilation Assessment | Annually | 10–15% energy cost reduction |
What’s Considered Part Of Commercial Roof Maintenance?
Commercial roof maintenance typically encompasses a range of activities aimed at preserving the integrity and function of the roof. A big part of this process involves routine inspections, where professional roofers look for signs of damage, wear, or aging along the roof’s surface and its materials. They will also meticulously examine the condition of flashing, drains, gutters, and downspouts to ensure they are clear of debris and functioning properly to prevent water accumulation. Particular attention is given to rooftop equipment like HVAC systems, ensuring they are well-maintained and securely fastened to the surface, as these are common sources of leaks.
Maintenance also involves cleaning the roof to remove debris, dirt, and any biological growth that can deteriorate roofing materials. Making prompt repairs is a critical part of the process, addressing any detected issues, like repairing leaks, patching holes, or replacing damaged sections before they turn into major problems. The contractor will check and maintain the structural integrity of the building as well, ensuring that the roof is stable and capable of handling typical loads.
Commercial roof maintenance involves the application of coatings or sealants as needed to protect the roof’s surface from UV rays, weathering, and leaks. Regular updates and improvements to insulation and ventilation are also essential to prevent energy loss and manage moisture levels, which are critical in maintaining the roof’s condition and the building’s overall climate. Proper ventilation and maintenance can reduce overall building energy costs by 10–15%.
If an inspection takes place with professional help, ensure that the contractor creates a comprehensive report to provide you with. Detailed records of all inspections, repairs, and maintenance activities should be kept to provide insurance companies with a history of the roof’s condition and work done. This documentation is essential for understanding the roof’s lifecycle, planning for future maintenance or replacement, and providing evidence of upkeep, which can be important for warranty and insurance purposes. By adhering to these systematic and proactive maintenance steps, the longevity and performance of a commercial roof can be significantly enhanced.
Common Roofing Problems and How to Fix Them
There are a number of common roofing problems that may be discovered during an inspection, including:
- Roof leaks
- Ice dams
- Ventilation issues
- Drainage issues
Each of these problems can have a significant impact on the roof’s performance and lifespan, so it is important to be able to identify and fix them promptly.
Here are some tips on how to fix common roofing problems:
- For roof leaks, you will need to find the source of the leak and seal it. This may involve repairing sections of the roofing membrane, or even installing a new roof if the structure is damaged.
- To prevent ice dams, the ventilation and insulation of the building should be assessed for efficiency and repaired as necessary.
- For drainage issues, make sure that the drainage system is clear of debris and properly sloped to ensure adequate drainage.
How to Find A Reliable Commercial Roofing Contractor
Finding a reliable commercial roofing contractor can be a challenge, but it is important to do your research in order to find a company that you can trust to do the job right. Here are a few tips for finding a reliable commercial roofing contractor:
Get At Least 3 Quotes From Different Contractors: Do some research and shop around for the best contractor by getting at least three quotes from different roofing contractors. This approach allows you to compare prices, gauge the scope of work, and understand the different materials and services offered. Each quote might include varying levels of detail, quality of materials, and timeframes, which will help you make a well-informed decision. It’s important not to automatically choose the lowest bidder, and you always want to prioritize quality over cost.
Check The References Of Each Contractor: Before hiring a roofing contractor, it’s vital to check their references. This means reaching out to past clients to ask how satisfied they are with the work performed. A reputable contractor should be willing and able to provide a list of previous clients.
Make Sure The Contractor Is Licensed And Insured: Ensuring that a roofing contractor is licensed and insured is critical for your protection. A license means that the contractor has met standard requirements set by the industry and local municipality to perform the work. Insurance, including liability and worker’s compensation, protects you from being held liable for any accidents or damage that occurs on your property during the project.
Ask About The Contractor’s Warranty And Maintenance Policies: Understanding the warranty offered by a roofing contractor and their maintenance policies is essential. A warranty will protect you against material defects or installation errors, while maintenance services are essential for extending the life of your roof. Ask about the length of the warranty, what it covers, and how the contractor handles warranty claims. Additionally, inquire about any ongoing maintenance services they provide, such as regular inspections or minor repairs, and the associated costs.
Meet With The Contractor In Person: This meeting allows you to discuss details about your project, ask questions, and clarify expectations. It’s also an opportunity to assess the contractor’s professionalism, communication skills, and expertise. A face-to-face meeting helps establish a working relationship and trust, which are essential for a successful project. Pay attention to the contractor’s willingness to listen to your needs, provide honest advice, and demonstrate a thorough understanding of roofing maintenance. This interaction can be a significant indicator of the quality of service you will receive.
How to Get the Most Out of Your Roof Maintenance Budget
As a business owner, it’s paramount that you factor in roof maintenance and potential roof repairs into your overall budget. This will prevent serious damage from occurring to the roof of your building, damage that could otherwise halt business operations.
To get the most out of your roof maintenance budget, ensure that you get frequent inspections. As mentioned before, inspections are a crucial part of roof maintenance, especially when it comes to your budget. This is because an inspection will catch problems early, before they get out of hand, and cost more money to repair.
You’ll also want to consider the chosen roofing material on your commercial roof. Though a material may initially seem cheap, it may cost you later when you’re making frequent repairs to it. Think about what it will take to maintain the chosen material before installing it, and ensure that you factor in the cost of any coatings that you want applied as well.
Finally, be prepared to budget for unexpected repairs. Even the best-maintained roofs can occasionally develop problems. By having a little extra money set aside, you can be prepared to handle any unexpected repairs that come up.
How to Get the Most Out of Your Roof Maintenance Budget
As a business owner, it’s important that you factor in roof maintenance and potential roof repairs into your overall budget. This will prevent serious damage from occurring to the roof of your building, damage that could otherwise halt business operations.
To get the most out of your roof maintenance budget, ensure that you get frequent inspections. As mentioned before, inspections are an essential part of roof maintenance, especially when it comes to your budget. This is because an inspection will catch problems early, before they get out of hand, and cost more money to repair. In fact, emergency repairs typically cost 2–5 times more than scheduled maintenance tasks.
| Approach | Cost Multiple | Lifecycle Cost Impact | Roof Lifespan |
|---|---|---|---|
| Proactive Maintenance | Baseline (1x) | 45–50% reduction | 20–25 years |
| Reactive/Emergency Repairs | 2–5x higher | Baseline | 10–15 years |
You’ll also want to consider the chosen roofing material on your commercial roof. Though a material may initially seem cheap, it may cost you later when you’re making frequent repairs to it. Think about what it will take to maintain the chosen material before installing it, and ensure that you factor in the cost of any coatings that you want applied as well.
Finally, be prepared to budget for unexpected repairs. Even the best-maintained roofs can occasionally develop problems. By having a little extra money set aside, you can be prepared to handle any unexpected repairs that come up. Data shows that proactive maintenance reduces total lifecycle costs by 45–50%.
Commercial Roof Maintenance in Detroit
Are you looking for a reliable commercial roof maintenance company in Detroit? Look no further than Paramount Roofing! We offer a wide range of commercial roof maintenance services, including roof inspections, repairs, and replacements. We also offer ongoing maintenance plans to help keep your roof in peak condition. Contact us today at (586) 690-0227 to learn more about our commercial roof maintenance services. We’ll be happy to answer any questions you have and schedule a free consultation.
What are the warning signs that my commercial roof needs immediate attention between scheduled inspections?
Look for water stains on interior ceilings, visible sagging or ponding water that remains 48 hours after rain, increased energy bills indicating insulation problems, and unusual odors suggesting mold growth. If you notice loose or damaged flashing around roof penetrations or significant membrane blistering, contact a professional immediately to prevent extensive structural damage.
How does Detroit’s climate specifically impact commercial roof maintenance needs?
Detroit’s freeze-thaw cycles are particularly harsh on commercial roofing systems, causing expansion and contraction that can crack sealants and membranes. Heavy snow loads require additional structural monitoring, while spring thaw creates increased risk of ice dam formation and drainage system overflow. The region’s temperature extremes make fall inspections especially critical before winter weather arrives.
Can I schedule commercial roof maintenance during business hours without disrupting operations?
Most routine maintenance tasks like inspections, debris removal, and minor repairs can be performed during business hours with minimal disruption to your operations. Contractors typically work on sections of the roof systematically and can coordinate around your business schedule. More extensive repairs may require after-hours work or weekend scheduling to avoid interrupting critical business functions.
What documentation should I keep from each commercial roof maintenance visit?
Maintain detailed records including inspection reports with photos, repair invoices, warranty information, and any coating or material specifications used. This documentation proves maintenance compliance for warranty claims, helps with insurance disputes, aids in budgeting for future work, and provides valuable history when selling the property or applying for financing.
How do different commercial roofing materials affect maintenance requirements in Detroit?
TPO and EPDM rubber membranes require regular seam inspections and are susceptible to punctures from debris, while built-up roofing needs more frequent coating reapplication. Metal roofing demands fastener checks and rust prevention, whereas modified bitumen benefits from periodic surface treatments. Detroit’s weather makes proper drainage maintenance critical regardless of material type.
