Commercial roof maintenance is just as important to the property owner as residential roof maintenance is to the homeowner!
In fact, whether your commercial property is a retail store or multi-unit apartment building, commercial roof maintenance is the essential way to protect a building, its occupants, and your investment. Maintenance is non-negotiable because commercial roofs experience heavier traffic, larger mechanical loads, and more complex drainage patterns. Commercial roofs require regular inspections, small preventative repairs, and a clear maintenance plan tailored to the building’s use, depending on the type of commercial roof in question.
Is Commercial Roof Maintenance Necessary?
Simply put, maintaining your commercial roof is maintaining your assets. Leaky roofs can cause thousands of dollars in ruined merchandise or set your tenants looking for housing elsewhere. In the end, neglecting your commercial roof maintenance can cost many times more than a preventative investment in maintenance.
With a solid program of proactive commercial roof maintenance, you will reap the results.
- A longer-lasting roof
- Lower repair costs
- Improved energy efficiency
- Happier tenants/customers
- Insurance and warranty compliance
- A reputation as a good landlord
Why Do Residential Buildings 🏢 Need Commercial Roof Maintenance?
Multi-family buildings have unique maintenance needs because they house many residents. They also often have a web of ventilation and mechanical penetrations on the roof that may affect the health of the overall structure. If you are responsible for commercial roof maintenance for a residential building, here are some of your biggest challenges:
- Higher Foot Traffic and Access Issues
Apartment roofs often see unauthorized access from residents for recreation or maintenance personnel for repairs and inspection on HVAC. Increased foot traffic increases the risk of punctures, membrane wear, and damaged flashing.
- More Roof Penetrations
On a residential roof you may see dozens of plumbing vents, exhaust fans, elevator shafts, and telecom equipment. Every penetration is a potential leak point.
- Drainage and Ponding Water
Because multi-family buildings have large roof spans and produce more interior moisture, drainage must be maintained to avoid interior leaks, mold growth, and ceiling damage in multiple units.
- Seasonal Expansion and Contraction
Apartment buildings expand and contract routinely with the seasons. This can loosen parapet walls, expansion joints, and roof seams that can create areas for moisture to infiltrate.
What Kind of Preventative Maintenance Does My Residential Building Need?
Here is a guide to the most common problems for residential buildings and what preventative commercial roof maintenance you need to prevent damage in your residential property.
Common Problems and Preventative Maintenance
for Residential Commercial Properties
Common Problem | Preventative Commercial Roof Maintenance |
Roof membrane punctures from resident or contractor foot traffic | Restrict roof access; install walkway pads; post signage; keep a log of when and where technicians access the roof |
Leaks around plumbing vents and mechanical penetrations | Inspect flashing and sealant quarterly; repair cracked or loose boots; ensure proper caulking |
Ponding water due to clogged drains | Clean drains, scuppers, and gutters seasonally; schedule pre- and post-storm drain checks |
Flashing separation from building movement (expansion/contraction) | Inspect parapet walls and expansion joints twice a year; reseal seams as needed |
Blistering and bubbling caused by trapped moisture | Catch membrane splits early; perform routine moisture scans; ensure proper ventilation of exhaust units |
Interior leaks affecting multiple units | Conduct semiannual roof inspections; check ceilings for early signs of intrusion; document all repairs |
Damage from unauthorized rooftop usage (grilling, storage, recreation) | Add controlled access systems; lock roof hatches; educate residents about roof safety rules |
What Kind of Commercial Roof Maintenance Does My Retail Property 🛒 Need?
Retail roofs have an entirely different set of challenges than residential commercial properties, due to the heavy machinery and high rooftop activity typical in commercial shopping environments. They include:
- Large, Heavy HVAC and Refrigeration Units
Grocery stores and big-box retail buildings often support huge mechanical systems. Their vibration, weight load, and condensation line leaks, along with frequent technician traffic, can ultimately damage the roof. HVAC and refrigeration curbs are also a top source of commercial roof leaks.
- Chemical and Grease Exposure
Retail buildings with delis, bakeries, or restaurants may expose the roof membrane to grease from exhaust vents, oil leaks, or refrigerated coolants. These can degrade TPO, EPDM, and PVC roofing membranes quickly.
- Ice, Condensation, and Drainage Problems
Retail roofs experience intense temperature differentials because of large refrigeration systems. These can produce ice buildup around drains, condensation pooling, and accelerated membrane aging.
- Wide, Flat Roof Areas
By nature of their necessary wide roof spans, big retail roofs are more susceptible to ponding water, fastener loosening, and membrane shrinking, all of which can be controlled with preventative maintenance.
What Kind of Commercial Roof Maintenance Do I Need?
Commercial retail buildings everywhere face similar problems with their roofs. The good news is that a little preventative commercial roof maintenance can keep small problems from turning into major repairs.
Common Problems and Preventative Maintenance
for Retail Commercial Properties
Common Problems |
Preventative Maintenance |
Leaks around HVAC curbs and heavy rooftop equipment | Quarterly inspections of curbs; tighten fasteners; reseal flashing; install vibration pads |
Membrane deterioration from grease, oil, or chemical exposure (from deli/bakery exhaust or refrigeration units) | Clean grease traps and discharge lines; install grease guards; inspect roof areas near exhaust vents monthly |
Condensation and ice buildup around drains and pipes | Insulate refrigeration lines; check condensation drains monthly; clear ice and debris during winter |
Punctures from frequent technician access | Provide designated walk pads; restrict access routes; require contractor compliance with roof protection rules |
Ponding water on large flat roof spans | Ensure drainage systems are clear; add tapered insulation where needed; perform routine water-flow checks |
Fastener loosening due to vibration from large HVAC systems | Tighten or replace fasteners during inspections; use lock washers or vibration-resistant hardware |
Leaks caused by cracked or damaged parapet walls | Inspect perimeter walls semiannually; repair cracks; reseal wall caps and joints |
Membrane shrinkage from UV exposure on wide roof areas | Schedule regular inspections; apply approved roof coatings every 5–10 years |
Shared Maintenance Best Practices for All Commercial Properties
No matter the building type, these fundamentals apply to every commercial roof:
✔ Twice-a-Year Professional Inspections
Arrange for an inspection in Spring and Fall, as well as after major storms.
✔ Keeping the Roof Clean
Regularly move debris, branches, and trash that trap moisture or create puncture hazards.
✔ Maintaining Flashing and Seals
Flashing will fail before your roof membrane will. Monitor it regularly to head off trouble.
✔ Logging Roof Access
Keep a record of who is accessing the roof and when so you can prevent accidental damage.
✔ Performing Small Repairs Promptly
When an inspection uncovers the need for a repair, handle it immediately. Delaying minor issues can lead to major leaks.
✔ Staying Warranty-Compliant
Many warranties on roofing materials require documented annual maintenance. Know what is required and be sure to perform the routine maintenance your roof requires to keep your warranty current.
In conclusion, whether you are responsible for a residential or retail commercial property, a commercial maintenance program should be part of your management plan. Pro-Home Services is experienced with commercial roofing issues and is available to perform inspections, roof repairs, and replacements. Interested in arranging for a commercial roof maintenance program? Contact us to begin the discussion at 630-790-0800