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the protection your roof is giving you. Physical roof damage is the most obvious red flag that is somehow still ignored too often. Replacing a few broken tiles now can save you from having to spend thousands of dollars on repairing your building after heavy rainfall.
LOOK FOR PONDING WATER
When it does rain, a quick peek at the roof could reveal major red flags. For flat and low slope roofs, the accumulation (“ponding”) of water can reveal which areas of your roof need attention. While some ponding water remaining for 12-48 hours after it rains can be normal, significant ponding more than 48 hours after a storm is a major red flag. Even if it has not rained for months, you can still check for signs of ponding, as indicated by black or brown discoloration on your roof. Even worse, if you see staining on the ceiling inside, you already have a problem and need to call a specialist immediately.
ENSURE WATER CAN FLOW
When there is rain, it needs to flow freely without interruption. Clogged gutters, drains, and downspouts mean two things: not only will the backed-up water sit and soak in to cause damage, but it can overflow and go upstream where it should not. Simply clearing away leaves and debris can stop the build-up of water and save you thousands of dollars. If the fallen leaves and branches become unmanageable, you may need to trim back overgrown trees.
KEEP MAINTENANCE RECORDS
Logging oil changes and service for your car removes doubt and instills confidence for both you and potential buyers in the future. Just like your car, your property benefits from setting a maintenance plan and keeping detailed records. Every time someone steps on your roof, you must log it; otherwise, the results of your hard work by following the steps above are not being maximized.
By documenting maintenance, service calls, and suspected wear patterns, you can prove how well you take care of your roof. You’ll be empowered when talking to roofing contractors, and your bank account will thank you for it.
Of course, safety should always be your #1 priority. If you’re unable to safely get on your roof, cannot view it from a ladder, or just want an expert there from the start, call a Royal Roofing Company specialist today for a free roof inspection.
APARTMENT MANAGEMENT MAGAZINE - SEPTEMBER 2021 CS-27