Many commercial properties feature flat roofs, rather than sloped ones. They offer numerous benefits, including enhanced safety, easier inspections, and additional interior space. Flat roofs are also more durable than they used to be, and when properly maintained, they can last as long as the average sloped roof. However, you should work with a contractor in Glen Rock, NJ with experience with flat roof installations, repairs, and maintenance.
Roof Inspections
Flat roofs generally need to be professionally inspected more frequently than sloped roofs. Some experts recommend getting them inspected at least before and after each winter season. Before the winter, the contractor can identify any problem areas, and fix them before they turn into a more serious issue during the winter. When the last snow pile has melted, another inspection is necessary to identify any damage that may have occurred during the season.
Roof Cleaning
While you’re scheduling a roof inspection, have the contractor clean the roof of debris. If mounds of leaves are left up there during the winter, they’ll accumulate heavy ice. You may also want to schedule a thorough cleaning of algae and lichen, which can damage the roofing materials.
Snow Removal
Business owners are often surprised at just how heavy snow is. Some snow is wet and heavy, and some is dry and powdery. In general, a good storm of 10 to 12 inches will put about five pounds per square foot, according to the Insurance Institute for Business & Home Safety. Packed snow is even heavier. If you don’t get new snowfall removed right away, your flat roof could be struggling to hold up five pounds per square foot under just three to five inches of snow. Ice is even heavier. Just one inch of ice will put as much pressure on the roof as one foot of fresh snowfall. It isn’t safe for business owners to try to remove the snow and ice themselves. It’s slippery, and accidents can happen. Instead, you’ll need to call a professional to remove it after each major storm.
