As the vibrant colors and sounds of summer emerge, so do the unwelcome signs of roof leaks for many commercial buildings. Summer’s unpredictable weather, characterized by heavy rains, high winds, and high temperatures, can exacerbate existing roof issues or reveal new ones. For commercial property owners in Nashville, preparing for these seasonal challenges is crucial to maintaining the integrity of their roofs and protecting their investments. In this blog, we’ll explore common causes of roof leaks during the summer season, preventative measures to take before the storms hit, and what steps to follow if leaks do occur.
Common Causes of Summer Leaks
Summer weather in Nashville brings high sustained temperatures. These fluctuations can be particularly harsh on single-ply membrane roofs. Thunderstorms, hail, and strong winds can also cause serious damage to your roof system.
One of the most frequent causes of leaks is debris clogging drainage points, which can force water to pour back into the building. External damage from debris and the deterioration of flashing details around penetrations (due to thermal shock or time) can also make roofs more susceptible to leaks. Here are some additional signs that may indicate a leak.
Emergency Repairs
If the leak is occurring over electrical systems or valuable property, it calls for emergency service. At Maxwell Roofing, we provide our customers access to qualified roofing technicians every day at any hour. If necessary, we’re prepared to send out a team to respond to your emergency right away, whether it’s a weekend storm or a nighttime emergency.
Addressing Minor Leaks
Quick action can prevent minor leaks from escalating into major problems. Therefore, if you notice a minor leak, it’s important to promptly call a roofing professional to assess and fix it. While you might be tempted to try to repair the leak yourself, it’s best to avoid doing so. An improper repair could void a warranty and lead to more damage than the initial leak would have caused.
Preventative Maintenance
To prepare for the summer storm season, commercial building owners should ensure drainage points are clear of debris and inspect their roofs for any visible defects. Addressing these issues early helps prevent more significant problems as the season progresses and ensures that the roof remains watertight through the summer.
Regular inspections, especially before and after summer storms, can identify potential issues early and save commercial building owners a significant amount of money in the long run.
Smart Budgeting and Proactive Documentation
When budgeting for roof maintenance and repairs, consider the historical costs and add a 10% contingency each year to account for unforeseen issues. Investing in a regular maintenance plan not only provides peace of mind but also keeps your roof in optimal condition year-round. At Maxwell Roofing, we offer a comprehensive set of roofing services, including MAXCare®, to help you stay on top of maintenance. Our Maxwell Monitors program can also continually assess the state of your roof if you don’t have the time or capacity to do so.
Documenting all preventive maintenance can be invaluable if you experience roof leaks due to storms.
Is Your Commercial Roof on a Maintenance Schedule?
No matter the season, it’s never too late (or early) to seek out professional support for your commercial roofing needs. The Maxwell team is always here to help. Contact us with any questions to learn how we can protect your commercial investment for years to come.