Roof maintenance, repair and replacement are part of a strong exterior maintenance plan, and so is management of roofing assets. What are roofing assets exactly? These are all the components that make up your roofing system, from the asphalt shingles or tiles to the gutters and downspouts.
Your roof serves a critical purpose, as it protects the building’s occupants and everything inside from the elements. When you cut corners on roof inspections, repairs, and maintenance, lots of problems could affect your roofing assets later, such as:
- Shortened roof lifespan
- Leaks that may damage other parts of the building
- Compromised insulation, resulting in higher energy costs
- Mold and mildew buildup that compromises health and safety
- Additional costly expenses for repairs
This is why good roof asset management is essential in ensuring your property can withstand the effects of Mother Nature, such as wind, rain, fire, hail, heat, ice, and snow. Because your roof is large and always front and center in taking the brunt of the weather, it’s one of the most vulnerable components of your building. Regular inspections of all assets will ensure optimal performance and protection.
Proactive Inspection and Repair
Roof inspection and regular maintenance are important if you want to maximize your roof’s lifespan, and ideally performed on an annual or semi-annual basis (spring and fall). In addition to seasonal inspections after the extreme weather of winter and summer, you should also have your roof inspected after a major storm, construction project or fire.
Your inspection should include:
- Checking shingles for splits and cracks.
- Looking for missing shingles.
- Regular cleanings of gutters to prevent leaks and back-ups. (Heavy, clogged drains put stress on the roof’s structure. In winter, ice and snow are the culprits, while in summer, clogged gutters become a breeding ground for mosquitos.)
- Checking for debris behind skylights, roof valleys, pipes, and other penetrations.
- Checking vents and fans.
- Ensuring the security of all seams and joints.
- Checking on the state of all sealants and flashings.
Climate Considerations
From snow storms in winter to wind and lightning storms in summer, each season brings with it its own unique stressors to your roofing assets. Every climate is different, and property managers in various regions will have to budget for different things. In humid climates like Florida, pest control could be the main problem, but property managers in the Midwest have to consider issues such as freezing water and heavy snowfall.
Climate-specific roof problems to think about include:
- Pest control: Termites, squirrels, and birds can set up shop in your roof without proper prevention practices such as blocking small entry holes.
- Rain and humidity damage: Heavy rain and humidity can invite mold growth, which can lead to structural damage and health issues with tenants. Clean water damage immediately and call in mold mitigation specialists to ensure public health.
- Heavy storm damage: Driving winds and rains can result in loose shingles and tiles, leaks, and downed trees. Do a visual scan after every major storm.
- Snowfall weight damage: Heavy snowfall adds pressure to your roofing assets. Sign up for a seasonal maintenance plan with your HOA contractor to include snow removal services.
- Sun damage: UV rays shorten the lifespan of roofing products such as sealants. Check these elements throughout the summer.
Contact Allstar Construction for Roof Maintenance in Fargo
Allstar Construction offers assistance in managing your roofing assets. We know what your home’s roof needs, we know how to adhere to strict standards, and we know what it takes to keep your roof looking good and functioning properly. To learn more, contact us today at (701) 315-8150.
