How Often Should You Schedule a Flat Roof Survey for Commercial Buildings?
Regular flat roof surveys are crucial for maintaining the health and longevity of a commercial building’s roof. However, how often you need these inspections depends on several factors.
In this blog, we’ll explore how often you should schedule a flat roof survey for your commercial property and why consistent inspections are vital.
Roof Age
The age of your flat roof is one of the most significant factors in determining survey frequency. Newer roofs may not require as frequent surveys, but as a roof ages, the likelihood of wear and tear increases.
- New Roofs (0-5 years): A survey every 2-3 years is typically sufficient, barring any extreme weather events or noticeable issues.
- Mid-Life Roofs (5-10 years): Increase the frequency to every 1-2 years to catch early signs of deterioration.
- Older Roofs (10+ years): Annual surveys are recommended to monitor for signs of significant wear, leaks, or structural issues.
Roof Material
Different roofing materials have varying lifespans and maintenance needs, which can influence how often surveys should be conducted.
- EPDM and TPO Membranes: These materials are durable, but regular inspections every 1-2 years are advisable, especially in high-traffic areas or where the roof is exposed to harsh conditions.
- Built-Up Roofing (BUR): Due to the multiple layers in BUR systems, these roofs should be surveyed annually to ensure all layers are intact and functioning properly.
- Modified Bitumen: Like BUR, modified bitumen roofs should be inspected annually to catch any cracks, blisters, or other issues.
Weather Conditions
The local climate and weather patterns play a significant role in roof wear and tear. Areas with extreme weather conditions, such as heavy rain, snow, high winds, or intense sunlight, require more frequent inspections.
- Harsh Climates: In regions with severe weather, consider scheduling a survey after major storms or at least twice a year—once before and once after the harshest season.
- Mild Climates: In milder climates, a survey once a year may be sufficient, though bi-annual checks are still advisable for older roofs.
Foot Traffic and Roof Use
Commercial roofs often serve additional purposes, such as housing HVAC systems or solar panels, which can lead to increased wear due to foot traffic and equipment installation.
- High-Traffic Roofs: If your commercial roof is frequently accessed for maintenance or other purposes, schedule surveys at least twice a year to monitor for punctures, membrane damage, or other wear.
- Low-Traffic Roofs: For roofs with minimal foot traffic, annual surveys may be enough, provided other risk factors (like age and climate) are low.
Previous Issues
If your roof has a history of leaks, ponding water, or other issues, more frequent inspections are essential to ensure these problems do not reoccur or worsen.
- History of Problems: If your roof has had significant issues in the past, a survey every 6 months can help catch new problems early, preventing costly repairs or replacements.
Conclusion
For commercial buildings, the frequency of flat roof surveys should be down to the roof’s age, material, local weather conditions, and usage. Regular inspections are a proactive way to extend the lifespan of your roof and prevent costly repairs. By scheduling surveys at appropriate intervals, you can ensure that any issues are identified and addressed before they become bigger problems.
Ready to schedule your next flat roof survey? Contact DVC Roofing to ensure your commercial roof is thoroughly inspected and well-maintained.
