The roof is the most vulnerable part of any building and is subjected to a variety of stresses. Rain, snow, bitter cold, and bright sunlight attack the structure every season. Vermin, pests, and debris also take up residence on a property’s roof.
The roof’s design must complement the architectural style of the structure. There are many options that serve the dual purpose of aesthetics and functionality.
Maintenance
The roof is one of the most expensive parts of a commercial or residential structure, but it can also be the most neglected. Regular maintenance can prevent serious structural damage, improve tenant satisfaction and safety, and save money in energy bills.
The type and frequency of maintenance varies depending on climate and building characteristics. A roof in a sunny area might require pest control, while one in the North might need to consider heavy snow fall and other winter issues.
Changing or repairing flashing, the material around chimneys and where roofing planes meet, can help prevent leaks. Similarly, regularly checking gutters and drains, and clearing accumulated leaves and twigs, can protect against moisture damage.
Checking shingles for cracks and looseness, and promptly replacing any that are damaged, can prevent more severe problems like leaks or structural damage. In addition, resealing tar can help protect shingle edges. Regularly examining roof vents, skylights and other rooftop penetrations can help reduce the risk of mold, insect infestation and water damage to interior structures. Maintaining a roof in good repair can help property managers keep tenants happy and satisfied, improving their quality of life, while reducing the potential for legal liability. Maintaining a well-maintained roof can increase property values and attract more tenants.
Inspections
As a homeowner or commercial property owner, it is important to perform regular roof inspections. This will help identify any issues that could lead to damage and save you money on repairs in the long run. A roof inspection is also a good idea before putting your home or commercial property on the market. It will give the real estate agent and mortgage appraiser peace of mind that there are no hidden problems with your roofing system that will affect the value of the property.
A qualified roof inspector will examine the condition of the shingles, flashing, gutters and downspouts. The inspector will also look at the fascia boards and soffit boards, which are the wood structures that cover the underside of the roof overhangs, for signs of rot or other damage. The inspector will also check the condition of vent pipes, chimneys and skylights, as well as their surrounding sealants and flashing.
Shingles should be straight and flat, free of stains and moss and properly fastened to the flashing. Flashing is strips of metal, plastic or other material that divert water away from penetrations in the roof such as vent pipes, chimneys and skylights. Flashing is often overlooked and can be subject to rust or corrosion over time. Inspectors will check the flashing for cracks and dents, as well as the condition of the rubber boots and sealants around these penetrations to make sure they are up to code.
Repairs
In a competitive market, buyers may be more willing to overlook problems such as an older or damaged roof. Having insight into the pace of sales in your area and neighborhood can help you decide whether or not it’s cost-effective to conduct repairs before selling, or just wait until afterward. For rental properties, deductible repairs are a common expense, while capital improvements must be capitalized and depreciated over the life of the asset. Understanding the difference can save you a lot of time and money on tax preparations.
In either case, communication with tenants is crucial to minimize disruption and costs.