A heavy storm can wreak havoc on any building, but commercial roofs may be particularly vulnerable. Strong winds, heavy rain, hail, and debris can all cause significant damage that may not be immediately visible. Left unaddressed, even minor damage can lead to costly repairs or more serious structural issues down the line. As a business owner, it’s essential to know how to assess the damage to your commercial roofing Marin County after a storm to prevent further problems.
Step 1: Safety First
Before assessing any damage to your roof, always prioritize safety. If the storm caused extensive structural damage or if electrical lines are down, it’s best to keep your distance and wait for the area to be deemed safe. Even after the immediate danger has passed, wet and damaged roofing materials can be slippery, and there’s always a risk of falling.
Proper Equipment
If you have to inspect the roof yourself, ensure that you have the proper safety equipment, such as non-slip shoes, a safety harness, and gloves. In most cases, it’s best to leave the detailed inspection to a roofing professional, like ARS Roofing, who is trained to safely navigate damaged areas.
Step 2: Perform an Initial Walk-Around Inspection
Before climbing onto the roof, start by performing a walk-around inspection of your property from the ground level. Document any visible damage with photos, as this will be helpful if you file an insurance claim.
Look for:
Debris
Branches, tree limbs, or other debris on the ground or roof can be a clear indicator that storm damage occurred.
Gutters and Downspouts
Check for any dents or clogs in your gutters. Also, look for shingle granules that may have washed off, indicating possible shingle damage.
Flashing Damage
Flashing around chimneys, vents, and skylights can often be loosened or torn off by strong winds. From the ground, look for any visible gaps or displaced flashing.
Step 3: Check Inside for Leaks and Water Damage
Storm damage doesn’t always show up immediately on the exterior of your roof. Sometimes, the first signs of damage are indoors. It can be helpful to understand the life cycle costs of commercial roofing as you make your way through the inspection process.
After a storm, check for:
Ceiling or Wall Stains
Water stains can be a sign of a roof leak. Even if the stains are small, they can indicate a larger issue with your roof.
Dripping Water or Wet Spots
If you notice water dripping or pooling in certain areas, your roof may have sustained serious damage that needs immediate attention.
Musty Odors or Mold
Water leaks that have gone unnoticed for some time can lead to mold growth. If you smell a musty odor, it could mean water has infiltrated your roofing system.
Step 4: Conduct a Professional Roof Inspection
While it’s important to conduct your own preliminary inspection, a professional roofing inspection is essential to assess commercial roof damage thoroughly. A professional roofer has the expertise and tools to evaluate the roof’s structural integrity, detect any hidden damage, and recommend the appropriate repairs. They will check for:
Roof Membrane Damage
For flat or low-slope roofs, the membrane can be punctured or torn by wind-driven debris. A roofing professional will check for any signs of punctures or blisters in the membrane.
Seam Issues
Roof seams are particularly vulnerable in a storm. A professional will inspect the seams for any gaps, tears, or other signs of separation.
Structural Damage
If the storm was particularly severe, your roof’s underlying structure could have been compromised. The importance of roof structure as your home’s backbone should not be underestimated. This damage could manifest as sagging, which is a sign that the roof is no longer able to support its own weight and may risk collapse.
Step 5: File an Insurance Claim if Necessary
If the storm caused significant damage, you may need to file an insurance claim to cover repair costs. Make sure you document everything, from the initial inspection to the damage that was confirmed by the professional roofer. Include photos, videos, and notes detailing the issues. Your insurance company will likely require this information to process your claim.
Step 6: Schedule Repairs Promptly
Once you’ve identified any damage and filed your insurance claim (if applicable), it’s time to schedule repairs. It’s critical to act quickly, as delaying repairs can worsen the damage and lead to more expensive fixes down the line. Working with a reliable roofing contractor like ARS Roofing helps ensure that repairs are done correctly and efficiently.
Efficient Commercial Roofing Repair – ARS Roofing
If your commercial roof has been impacted by a storm, don’t wait. Contact ARS Roofing or give us a call today at (415) 459-7200 for a professional inspection and fast, reliable repairs to safeguard your investment. Our team offers 24/7 Emergency Roof Repair Services ensuring your home is protected any time of the day. For commercial roofing services in Marin County, trust the experts at ARS Roofing.