A successful maintenance program is built on a foundation of scheduled inspections and prompt, professional action. These core activities are essential for keeping your commercial roof in peak condition.

1. Scheduled Professional Inspections

The cornerstone of any effective plan is a semi-annual inspection conducted by a qualified commercial roofing contractor. These inspections are best performed in the spring and fall, allowing for preparation ahead of summer heat and winter storms. A professional has the training and safety equipment to perform a thorough, hands-on assessment that an untrained person cannot.

During a professional inspection, a technician will typically evaluate:

• The Roof Membrane: Checking for punctures, blisters, open seams, and signs of weathering or shrinkage in materials like TPO, EPDM, PVC, or modified bitumen.
• Flashings and Seals: Meticulously examining the watertight seals around all roof penetrations, such as HVAC units, pipes, vents, and skylights. These are the most frequent sources of leaks.
• Drainage Systems: Ensuring that internal drains, scuppers, and gutters are clear of blockages and functioning correctly to prevent ponding water.
• Overall Roof Condition: Looking for evidence of wind damage, unauthorized foot traffic, and the accumulation of debris.

2. Debris Removal and Roof Cleaning

Large, low-slope commercial roofs are magnets for leaves, dirt, branches, and wind-blown trash. This debris can clog vital drainage systems, leading to ponding water. Trapped organic matter also holds moisture against the roof surface, which can accelerate the deterioration of the membrane and encourage the growth of damaging moss and algae.

Part of any business roof care routine must involve regularly clearing all debris from the roof surface and drainage paths. While your on-site facilities team might handle minor spot-cleaning, a professional roofing service can perform a more thorough cleaning to restore the roof’s surface and ensure its reflective properties are not compromised.

3. Maintaining Positive Drainage

Ponding water is the number one enemy of a flat or low-slope commercial roof. Defined as any water that remains on the roof 48 hours after rainfall, it adds immense stress to the building’s structure. It also magnifies the sun’s UV rays, which speeds up the degradation of the roofing membrane.

An essential maintenance task is to verify that all drainage components are clear and functional. If you consistently notice standing water in specific areas, it may signal a deeper problem, such as a clogged internal drain pipe or a section of compressed insulation. These issues require professional diagnosis and repair to restore proper drainage.

4. Prompt and Professional Leak Repair

Even with the best maintenance plan, minor issues like punctures from dropped tools or wind-driven debris can occur. It is critical to address any sign of a leak immediately. Train your staff to report water stains on ceiling tiles, damp spots near windows, or any active drips as soon as they are noticed.

Delaying a repair is a costly mistake. A small puncture allows water to enter the roofing assembly, where it can travel far from the entry point, saturate insulation, and cause hidden rust and rot. Prompt professional repairs will contain the damage and prevent a small problem from turning into a major restoration project.