Do you own industrial premises? Whether it be a factory, warehouse or distribution centre, you want to make sure that every aspect of your building lasts as long as possible – including the roof. Once your roof starts to leak or fall through, you risk damage to other parts of your building, and the repair costs can mount up quickly. Wondering what you can do to maximise the lifespan of your industrial roof? Let’s find out.
Carefully select roofing materials
With so many roofing systems available, knowing which one is best for your industrial building can be difficult. However, the trick is to match your roofing system to your location, building type and environmental conditions.
- EPDM roofing – made from synthetic rubber that’s highly durable, this is an excellent choice for flat or low-pitched roofs. It’ll protect your building no matter the climate.
- TPO roofing – highly reflective, energy-efficient and resistant to ultraviolet, chemical and ozone exposure, this material is mostly used for flat industrial roofs. When installed and maintained properly, TPO roofs can last as long as 30 years before they need replacing.
- Modified bitumen roofing – as one of the most reliable options available, these roofing systems can withstand harsh exposure to the elements – protecting your industrial building against damage from rain, snow and ice.
- Metal roofing – offering exceptional durability and guaranteeing a sleek look for your industrial premises, metal roofs are expected to last 40 years before they show any signs of rusting.
Schedule regular roof inspections
An excellent way to prolong the lifespan of your roof is to arrange for industrial roofing contractors to inspect it at least once a year. They can examine your roofing system and identify leaks, clogged drains and physical damage – allowing the necessary repairs to be carried out before they escalate into bigger problems. Industrial roofers can also advise you on how to maintain your industrial roofing to ensure your building is protected against damage all year round.
Keep your roof clean
In addition to routine inspections, you need to have your industrial roofing system cleaned regularly. Heavy rain and strong winds can direct leaves, dirt, moss and other debris into your gutters and downpipes. When left to accumulate, it can cause blockages and increase the risk of leaks, mould, mildew and drainage issues. Asking a professional to clean your industrial roof will give you one less thing to worry about whilst keeping it in the best condition for as long as possible.
Trim overhanging branches
If there are lots of trees surrounding your industrial premises, it’s in your best interest to trim back any overhanging branches. This is because falling branches can cause serious damage to your building and may end up blocking your gutters, resulting in drainage problems. By trimming branches, you’ll make it easier for industrial roofing contractors to clean leaves, acorns and twigs off your roof – ensuring minimal disruption to daily operations and costing you less in labour. As well as extending the longevity of your roof, it’ll help to keep animal and insect infestations at bay, too.
Reduce foot traffic
Walking on the roof of your industrial building can cause damage and impact its life expectancy. Whilst you might not be able to avoid foot traffic on your roof completely, restricting access will certainly help to extend its lifespan. Installing walkways will add stability to your roof, allowing inspectors to walk across safely and perform roof surveys without causing any undue harm.
For more tips on prolonging the lifespan of your roof – ensuring maximum value for money – be sure to contact your local industrial roofing contractors. They’re perfectly placed to answer any of your questions and can offer advice and guidance should you need it.