School facility managers wear many hats. From managing budgets to overseeing maintenance, the responsibilities are vast. And while it’s easy to get caught up in the day-to-day, the condition of your school’s roof shouldn’t be an afterthought. It’s the unsung hero, protecting students, staff, and equipment from the elements.
At Maxwell Roofing, we understand the unique challenges faced by school administrators. With nearly 70 years of experience serving educational institutions across Tennessee and Alabama, we’ve seen (and passed) every type of test that has come our way. That’s why we’ve put together this “study sheet” to help you protect one of your school’s most critical assets.
School Roof Maintenance 101: 7 Lessons for Facility Managers
1. Be Proactive: Develop a Preventative Maintenance Plan
The best defense against damage is a proactive offense. Regular maintenance for school facilities is important, and the same applies to your roof.
Developing a preventative maintenance plan is crucial. A well-maintained roof system is essential for ensuring a water-tight environment that can withstand the test of time. Regularly removing debris from all drainage points and repairing small defects every winter and summer can have longstanding effects that prolong the life of your roof.
2. Don’t Guess, Inspect: Invest in Annual Inspections
Just as teachers give regular assessments to track student progress, your roof needs a checkup, too. Annual inspections are like progress reports for your roof. They help identify potential problems before they become major headaches. Think of it as preventing an “unexpected pop quiz” you weren’t prepared to take. Catching issues early means more minor repairs and less disruption to school activities.
3. Visitor Check-Ins: Don’t Neglect Ad-Hoc Inspections
From HVAC technicians to satellite dish installers, your roof sees its fair share of visitors. Every time someone accesses your roof, it’s like a pop quiz—you never know what damage might occur. That’s why it’s essential to schedule a quick roof inspection after any non-roofing-related work is done. It’s like double-checking a student’s work to ensure accuracy.
4. Prioritize Safety First, Always
In the same way principals and teachers prioritize student safety, a qualified roofing contractor should prioritize safety on school roofing projects. Ensure your roofing team is well-trained, equipped with the proper safety gear, and adheres to strict OSHA safety protocols. A safe work environment is essential for protecting both your roof and the people working on it. It’s like creating a classroom where everyone feels secure and focused.
5. Be Weather Wise: Recognize the Impact on Your Roof
Every facility manager knows the importance of keeping an eye on the weather. From scheduling outdoor events to preparing for emergencies, weather is a constant factor. But have you considered how the weather impacts your roof? Understanding the specific challenges your roof faces in each season can help you protect it from damage. And when severe weather occurs, you need a plan to assess your roof for potential damage.
6. After the Bell Rings: Strategic Timing Repairs
Just as teachers plan lesson plans around school breaks, you should strategically schedule roof repairs. Working on your roof during school vacations minimizes disruptions to students and staff. It’s like tackling a big project over the summer— you can experience less stress and better results. By planning ahead, you can ensure a smoother repair process and a happier school administration.
7. Knowing When It’s Time: Planning for Replacement
More frequent and larger roofing leaks may mean your roof is nearing the end of its lifespan. If your roof is over 15 years old, it’s time to start budgeting for a replacement. Advanced signs of deterioration in the field membrane or shingles are clear indicators that action is needed. Just as you plan for long-term facility upgrades, planning for roof replacement ensures the longevity and safety of your school building.
Ace Your Roof Report Card
By following these seven tips, you can transform your school’s roof from an overlooked asset to a high-performing component of your building. Partnering with a reliable roofing service provider is essential to ensure your roof “passes the test” of time with flying colors.
Maxwell Roofing is committed to partnering with school facility managers to ensure your roof gets the attention it deserves.
Get an inside look at our work with Ensworth’s facility management director, or contact us today for a comprehensive roof evaluation and customized maintenance plan. Let’s work together to give your roof an A+!