Are you worried about your roof? You probably should be.
Ok, maybe you needn’t worry, but you shouldn’t ignore it either. Your roof is arguably the most structurally important feature of your business and your home. It’s not only what ultimately provides you shelter, but it is also responsible for much of your business and home’s structural integrity. A well-maintained roof is one that protects your investments, products, employees, and family from all kinds of inclement weather. So, how often should you inspect your roof?
Daily exposure to the elements – sun, rain, wind, and snow – will take its toll on even the most advanced roofing system. Most roofs are expected to last a maximum of 25 to 30 years, and to get the most from your roofing warranty, regular maintenance is a necessity. Indeed, regular inspections allow for regular maintenance which will ultimately extend the life of your roof. Without proper maintenance, some roofs will lose half or more of their lifespan; so even though there is a cost associated with professional inspection and repair, keeping on top of roof maintenance will actually save you money in the long run.
More importantly, many roof warranties stipulate that regular maintenance is required or the warranty is voided. This applies to both residential and commercial roofing systems, so whether you’re a home owner or a business owner, you want to take roof maintenance seriously. Typically, roofing professionals will tell you that twice annual inspections are the way to go. This is especially true in climates where there are distinct seasons, particularly if you’re in an area that gets harsh winters.
So then, when should you have your roof inspected? In a perfect world, you want to book your inspections around the season with the most severe weather – typically winter. Why? It’s simple. You want to make sure that your roof is ready to withstand all that Mother Nature has to offer before that season starts. And when that season is finished, you want to be sure that your roof has survived without sustaining significant damage. Plus, as a side-benefit, discovering roofing damage in the off-season (when roofers are least busy) means you can conduct repairs at a much more affordable rate. On the other hand, if you wait until winter and you discover significant leaks in your roof, repairs will be significantly more costly.
Finally, a quick note on who should conduct inspections is warranted. It is always advisable to work with a professional roofer for inspections. Not only do they have the skills and expertise to thoroughly assess your roof for damage, they also have the required equipment to do the job efficiently and safely. Remember, the modest cost of regular maintenance will most definitely save you when it comes to replacement and repair in the future.