When to Inspect and Maintain? Existing roofs will benefit from regular inspections at least twice a year, in the spring and fall. The spring inspections allow for observation of possible winter damage and allow repairs to be made in the best possible weather. A fall inspection allows for observations to be made in preparation for the oncoming winter. Additional inspections should be made after major storms or after any construction activity that could affect the roof.
When inspections are completed, all the roof areas should be categorized as to their condition. Where necessary, repair procedures and priorities should be established. Repair programs should then be conducted in the best weather, with proper capital allocated based on priorities. The priorities can be clearly marked on a copy of the roof plan, and updated as work progresses.
Depending on the type of roof materials, the roof inspector will likely provide special attention to roof blisters, membrane cracking, visible reinforcing mesh, flashing or counterflashing failure, coping caps seams and slope, condition of the vertical walls, flashings at roof penetrations, and sealants. Please note that sealants are likely excluded from any roof warranty, and are often in need of replacement.
The Fine Print Presented below is an excerpt of a roof “checklist” in spreadsheet format that can be tailored for specific roof systems. The complete form is available electronically for free to our readers, upon request.
Remember also that regular inspection and maintenance of the roof is mandated by virtually all of the roofing manufacturers, and that the maintenance should be carried out by an “approved” applicator. In addition to causing additional cost to the owner, the lack of proper roof inspection and maintenance may in fact deprive the owner of what otherwise would be a legitimate claim against material or labor defects.
Have you implemented your roof maintenance program yet?
www.wscai.org 23
Page 1 |
Page 2 |
Page 3 |
Page 4 |
Page 5 |
Page 6 |
Page 7 |
Page 8 |
Page 9 |
Page 10 |
Page 11 |
Page 12 |
Page 13 |
Page 14 |
Page 15 |
Page 16 |
Page 17 |
Page 18 |
Page 19 |
Page 20 |
Page 21 |
Page 22 |
Page 23 |
Page 24 |
Page 25 |
Page 26 |
Page 27 |
Page 28 |
Page 29 |
Page 30 |
Page 31 |
Page 32