BASIC ROOF PREVENTATIVE MAINTENANCE
MAINTENANCE PROGRAM
A preventive maintenance program is simply a program of scheduled inspections and subsequent corrective action. The purpose is to maximize the life expectancy of the roofing system, thus providing maximum protection to building and contents and minimizing overall costs.
The basic elements of a preventive maintenance program for roofs are:
A vital part of the condition of the roof system is whether or not the insulation remains dry. A roof may appear to be in excellent condition from the surface, but may have areas of saturated insulation, which severely affect the thermal efficiency of the roof.
Non-destructive moisture detection of roof systems has developed into a sophisticated technique that can provide accurate analysis of roof insulation condition. Two commonly used systems are nuclear meter and infrared thermography. Both systems require trained skilled operators, specific weather conditions, specific roof types, and professional analysis. Visual inspection by a trained person is the key to a successful maintenance program.
INSPECTION
Roofs should be inspected at least twice a year—spring and fall—and also after any significant weather or construction event.
The inspection should be preceded by the preparation of a detailed roof plan on which all defects or notes can be marked. If the inspection indicates that more than minor work is required, an inspection checklist is necessary to ensure thoroughness. Call your professional roofing contractor to perform the required maintenance work.
A typical roof plan and an inspection checklist are included in this guide for your convenience.
Begin the inspection by looking at the underside of the deck, if accessible, and also at the outside of the building. Look for cracks, stains, rusting, watermarks, efflorescence, wet spots, spalled mortar etc. or other signs of excessive moisture or deterioration. The observations may give clues to not only roofing problems but also other conditions affecting the performance of the building envelope.
The final and most important part is inspecting the roof itself. The keys to a competent roof inspection are thoroughness and attention to detail—be prepared to get dirty!
For a complete copy of the Roof Maintenance Guide, or the names of Roofing Contractors Association of B.C. (RCABC) contractors and accepted Roofing Inspection Firms in your area, contact the Association at:
(604) 882-9734; Fax: (604) 882-1744;
E-Mail: roofing@rcabc.org;
Web Site: http://www/rcabc.org