Commercial buildings with flat roofs need to be properly maintained to avoid water damage and expensive repairs. Maintaining these roofs in good condition prolongs the life of the membrane and can save the company from flat roof replacement costs. This blog aims to offer useful maintenance tips for Katy and Houston businesses.
A Schedule of Professional Inspections
Your commercial roof maintenance begins with scheduled professional inspections every year or after major storms. During each visit, ensure that all membrane seams are still intact, and everything is secure around roof vents and HVAC units. Take note of cracks, blisters, or other weak spots before they turn into leaks.
Regularly Clean Roof Surfaces
A clean roof surface promotes good drainage and minimizes wear. Make it a point to remove loose debris like leaves and dirt at least once a month. Pay special attention to:
- Emptying gutters, scuppers, and drains
- Using a soft-bristled broom, or a rinse at a low pressure
- Inspecting areas where debris is stuck on the roof edge
Prevent Ponding Water
Houston clients often face standing water issues that stress membranes. If water pools for more than 48 hours, it can lead to structural damage. Consider tapered insulation or additional drains in low-slope areas. Schedule repairs promptly to restore proper runoff and keep your roof watertight.
Check Membrane Condition
Different roofing systems, such as TPO, EPDM, and Modified Bitumen, require a different level of attention. Look for:
- Surface cracks or holes
- Bubbles or uplift from UV damage
- Discolored areas indicating material thinning
For small holes, use compatible roof cement for sealing small punctures to stop leaking. Larger areas of compromised membranes will need to be replaced and will not allow for complete waterproofing.
Protect from Sun Exposure
The sun in Houston is punishing and hastens the breakdown of membranes. Reflective coatings also allow you to reduce heat stress and block UV rays. A good reflective coating is compatible with the type of existing flat roof installation you should reapply every five years or as directed by the manufacturer. This can also enhance energy efficiency by reducing the amount of cooling needed inside the building.
Manage Roof Traffic
Allowing free foot traffic across the roof increases the potential for unintentional damage. Limiting roof access to only those personnel necessary will help with this. Also, install designated walk paths by using pads and signage at entry points to inform the appropriate maintenance team of the path to choose. Avoid slipping and accidentally tearing or puncturing the membrane.
Commercial Roofing Services Katy TX
Business owners in Katy have added benefits by working with roofing contractors familiar with local construction codes and the Katy TX climate. Hiring local professionals also means they come equipped with solutions for issues such as water ponding, knowing that this requires rapid Flat roof repair Katy tx when leaks do occur. Professional crews can also handle flat roof installation, with systems designed for the regional climate.
Commercial roofing service in Houston
Houston commercial roofing services are designed to maintain a flat roof from the stress of high humidity or heavy rain. A preventive maintenance plan incorporates membrane inspections, light cleaning, and minor repairs. A standard service agreement can help minimize emergency calls and unexpected business shutdowns related to roofing issues.
Create a budget for replacement
Every flat roof must be replaced at some point within its design life expectancy. Having an understanding of the anticipated cost of replacement can help you plan for a replacement budget. A typical replacement cost can range from three to four dollars a square foot depending upon the material (PVC, TPO, or EPDM) and complexity of the project. Planning for replacement will help you avoid rushed repairs and transition more seamlessly when it is time to replace the roof.
Concluding Maintenance Checklist
Use this quick list at each inspection to check on the roof’s health:
- Confirm the integrity of membrane seams
- Remove debris from the drains and the surfaces
- Look for signs of ponding water
- Check condition of coatings for UV protection
- Note issues and schedule repairs
Take steps to protect your commercial property investment with a proactive maintenance approach. Call our experts from Hart Roofing today to schedule an inspection or get a customized maintenance plan in place. Your flat roof will remain in top shape and perform to your needs for a long time.
