One of the most vital aspects of your commercial property is the roof as it protects your assets and ensures the comfort of employees and customers. In this blog post, we share an overview of what a maintainable commercial roof looks like so you can have peace of mind knowing that your investment is built to last.
Types of Commercial Roofs
There’s a wide range of materials to choose from when it comes to commercial roofing. One popular option is the modified bitumen roof, which consists of durable, weather-resistant layers. Other common materials include thermoplastic olefin (TPO), ethylene propylene diene monomer (EPDM) rubber and metal.
Characteristics of a Maintainable Commercial Roof
To ensure that your commercial roof stays in excellent condition, you should be on the lookout for these key characteristics:
- Ample Space Around Penetrations: A maintainable commercial roof should have ample space around penetrations such as HVAC units, vents, pipes or other rooftop equipment. Sufficient clearance around these elements allows for easier access during roof maintenance and repairs. This space ensures that workers can maneuver comfortably and safely without causing damage to the roof or the equipment.
- Good Drainage System: Proper drainage is a crucial characteristic of a maintainable commercial roof. The roof should be designed to effectively channel water away from the surface and prevent ponding or pooling. Adequate drainage systems, including gutters, downspouts and sloping surfaces, help prevent water accumulation, which can lead to leaks, deterioration and potential structural damage.
- Safe but Limited Roof Access: Maintainable commercial roofs prioritize safety while limiting maintenance personnel’s access. Restricted access helps minimize the potential damage caused by foot traffic or unauthorized personnel. To prevent accidents, roof access points should be properly secured with sturdy ladders, guardrails or other safety measures. Implementing a clear protocol for authorized personnel to access the roof ensures that maintenance tasks are carried out safely and efficiently.
- Proper Equipment Clearance: Commercial roofs often house various equipment, such as HVAC units, solar panels, satellite dishes or communication equipment. It is important to provide sufficient clearance around these installations to allow for easy maintenance, repairs or replacements. Proper equipment clearance ensures that technicians can access and work on the equipment without damaging the roof or compromising its structural integrity.
- Adequate Water Barriers: Waterproofing is essential to maintaining the integrity of a commercial roof. A maintainable roof should have sufficient water barriers, including high-quality membranes, flashing and sealants. These elements create a watertight envelope, protecting the underlying structure from moisture infiltration. Regular inspection and maintenance of these water barriers are necessary to promptly identify and address any signs of wear or damage.
For top-notch roof replacements and maintenance services in Kent, WA, look no further than Fields Roof Service, Inc. Give us a call at (253) 852-4974 or fill out our online form to schedule an appointment.
