Roofing

In the San Antonio area, we are blessed to avoid some of the harsher winter weather seen in northern states, but we trade snow for sun. Sun, and ultraviolet exposure, can wear a commercial low-slope roof just as quickly as snow and ice. We do not get rain regularly enough for most people to consider water damage to metal roofing, but any low-slope or flat roof can develop ponding, drainage and other water-related issues. Using a flat roof maintenance checklist relieves you have having to remember what to check on, and when.

Safety – Your #1 Priority

Before undertaking any commercial metal roofing maintenance, make certain you or your staff are safe by strictly adhering to OSHA safety standards. A low-slope roof, especially a standing seam metal roofing, can be unexpectedly slippery. If in doubt, hire professionals to perform roof maintenance.

Scuppers

Twice yearly, inspect and work on your metal roofing from the edges in, starting with the scuppers to make certain they are not clogged with debris. Clean out the scuppers and check the seams and laps around them.

Drainage

While at the parapets or roof edge, check your building’s downspouts, not just for clogs but for mechanical attachment. Connections for lag screws into mortar are especially prone to weakening from erosion around the screws. A downspout that pulls away from your building can lead to foundation problems.

Flashing

Most flashing is durable and resists minor impacts. If flashing fails, however, it can lead to leaks. These are especially hard to find on standing seam metal roofing, but seams, transitions between surfaces and flashing are typical sources for leaks. Examine counter flashing, caps and coping.

Seams

On metal roofing, the mechanical fastenings at seams are the single-most vulnerable spots, as heat expands and contracts the metal, torquing the screws over time. Check for loose, missing or over-tightened screws. Check for rust spots around screws. Check panel alignment, as heat can distort or shift metal panels under the hot San Antonio sun.

Fastenings

Not all fastenings on low-slope metal roofs are mechanical. Sealants can fail, especially subjected to the harsh ultraviolet rays that break down chemical bonds. Butyl tape can also weather and crack, or peel up over time.

Keeping a checklist of trouble spots—scuppers, drainage, flashing, seams and fastenings—can help you avoid overlooking potential roofing problems.

Have a Question? Get in Touch with BELDON®

Need a hand with your Texas home’s roofing, gutters, or windows? Give us a call when you’re ready!

company icon