Written By: Andrea Nance, Warranty Administrator
Summer brings intense sun, heavy rains, and sometimes severe storms, all of which can damage your roof. A Fall inspection helps to identify and address issues that start out as small problems, but can turn into large ones during winter months due to freezing temperatures and winter precipitation.
Regular maintenance is key to maximizing the lifespan of a commercial roof. This helps you get the most out of your roofing investment.
Note: Some manufacturers’ warranties require periodic inspections and maintenance. It is important to know what your roof warranty requires and take steps to satisfy those requirements. Failing to do so may cause your warranty to be suspended or void your coverage.
Commercial Roof Fall Inspection Checklist:
Whether you hire a qualified professional or inspect and maintain the roof yourself, here are some important things to address:
1. Roof Drainage: Debris & Blockages
Clogged roof drains, gutters, and scuppers are one of the most common causes of roof leaks in commercial buildings. When leaves, branches, or debris prevent proper drainage, ponding water can form, which over time weakens the roof system and shortens its service life. Keeping roof drainage systems clear helps ensure water flows off the roof as intended and reduces the risk of costly water damage. Keeping roof drainage systems clear can help ensure water flows off the roof as intended and reduces the risk of costly water damage.
Here are a few easy ways to ensure your commercial roof has good drainage:
- Clear leaves, other organic materials, and debris from the roof surface regularly.
- Ensure gutters, downspouts, and internal drains are free from blockages.
- Trim overhanging branches to help prevent future buildups that prevent the roof from draining as it is intended.
2. Roof Membrane Damage: Tears, Splits, Cracks & Punctures
Even small cuts or punctures in the roof membrane can compromise your roof. Freeze-thaw cycles in the winter can quickly turn minor surface damage into major leaks. It’s important to pay special attention to areas near rooftop equipment, high-traffic zones, and low-lying spots that may collect water.
Ways to check for and prevent roof membrane damage include:
- Before winter weather sets in, walk the entire roof surface and inspect for visible damage like blisters, tears, cuts or punctures.
- Focus on vulnerable areas such as around rooftop equipment, high-traffic zones, and low lying sections, especially those that show evidence of standing water.
- Have any identified damage repaired immediately by a qualified professional, such as a Licensed Elevate Roofing Contractor.
3. Roof Flashings & Penetrations
Roof flashings can be problem areas on commercial roofs because they receive more of the sun’s damaging rays as well as the most stress from building movement.
Key steps for maintaining roof flashings and penetrations:
- Inspect flashings around rooftop units, skylights, vents, and walls.
- Check for open side-laps, loose or deteriorated materials, and evidence of membrane thinning.
- Re-secure or reseal areas as needed to ensure watertight performance.
- Verify vents, heater stacks, and other rooftop equipment are securely fastened. High winds can dislodge equipment, causing damage both to the building and the roof.
4. Animals and Pests - Damage to Roofs
Birds, squirrels, and rodents often look for shelter in roof systems during the colder months. While they may seem harmless, nesting or chewing can cause serious roof damage, especially around vents and soffits.
How to spot and prevent pest-related roof damage:
- Look for signs of nesting or animal droppings near common areas such as vents, soffits, and corners.
- Seal vulnerable openings where animals could gain access to the roof.
5. Structural Concerns Affecting Roof Performance
Unaddressed structural issues to your roof can pose risks to both the building and its occupants. Signs of stress, such as sagging areas, membrane shrinkage, cracks, or bulging, should be monitored closely.
Steps to address structural concerns:
- Check for sagging, cracks, or bulging that can indicate structural stress.
- Ensure that all previously identified issues, cracks, or punctures have been fully repaired.
- Clear blockages from drains, gutters, and scuppers.
- Prepare for heavy snow loads by verifying the roof can safely support the additional weight.
- Always engage the appropriate experts to evaluate your building if structural issues are a concern.
Fall is the ideal time to prepare your commercial roof for the winter ahead. By addressing issues caused by summer weather and reinforcing your roof’s defenses, you can extend your roof’s service life, help prevent costly repairs, and comply with any applicable warranty requirements.
Keep detailed records of inspections and repairs, including photos, invoices, and even a log of those who access your roof. These not only help with warranty claims but also provide a clear history of roof condition over time.
The best time to address roof problems is before they turn into emergencies.
About the Author
Andrea Nance is the Warranty Administrator for Elevate commercial roofing systems in Nashville. She began her career in residential construction, where she built a strong foundation in the industry before specializing in warranty services. Her experience helps her navigate the administrative side of projects, ensuring teams have the support they need.