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.
