The importance of Roof Maintenance .
Despite the advances in roof materials and construction methods , roofs need regular inspection and maintenance to check for potential issues and to prepare them to deal with inclement weather .
Defects that are discovered and repaired during a planned programme of maintenance will help you avoid a potentially much larger cost in the future .
The fabric of a building , especially the interior , is regularly maintained and upgraded because of wear and tear . However , a roof is expected to survive 20 years or more from installation with little to no maintenance .
Flat Roofs
A simple inspection on flat roofs can check for many potential defects , such as :
// lap failure // holes , cuts and scuffs in the membrane
// missing or loose flashing and counter flashings // repointing deterioration // ponding of water // blocked outlet or gutter
A flat roof could also have an electronic leak test carried out to pick up any defects in the membrane that need repairing and allow for a more accurate repair . This can only be carried out on certain roof build-ups but we can advise you on the best method and carry this out .
Pitch and Metal roofs
Pitch roofs and metal roofs also benefit from an inspection and maintenance programme to ensure they are looking their best and performing as they should . Guttering should be cleared and any missing or slipped tiles or slates replaced .
Roof lights on metal roofs can be particularly prone to leaking once the Butyl tape that seals the sheets starts failing and as the grp ( glass reinforced plastic ) ages under uv light and starts to yellow which cuts light transmission , making the sheets weaker .
These inspections should only be carried out by competent , trained operatives .
Soffits and Fascias
Soffits and fascias can be cleaned and painted at this stage or glazing seals replaced to prevent water ingress . A new lining can be installed in the gutter or this can be applied to the whole roof if suitable .
Our Surveys
Building Transformation carry out roof surveys to ascertain what will be needed in the way of powered access , rope access and we can inspect and install anchor lines for safe use .
Roof maintenance should always be carried out by trained operatives using the correct access methods and safety equipment .
During our surveys we would also check that the capping or coping is secure and make sure any penetrations to upstands or roof membrane are well sealed . Gutters will have the debris removed and new leaf guards installed if needed . Small areas of gutters can be resealed at this stage and if more work is needed we can prepare a report outlining the work needing to be carried out .