Arizona Commercial Roof Drain Maintenance: Tips To Prevent Costly Damage & Extend Roof Life
Keeping a commercial roof in top shape is essential to guarantee safety in any business’s physician structure. This is particularly useful when issues appear out of nowhere, and an area that can make all the difference is the drain.
Adequate drainage can be a game-changer for your commercial roof, but it’s not easy to know the proper maintenance approach. Fortunately, with a few preventative steps and support from trusted roofing contractors in Mesa, your roof can stay resilient and efficient season after season.
Read on to learn all about drain maintenance and improve your commercial roof’s resistance!
Why Drain Maintenance Is Key For Your Commercial Roof’s Health
Drainage in commercial roofing is essential for different reasons.
First, it avoids water accumulation, lowering the chance of leaks and structural damage to the building. This helps to preserve the roof’s integrity, extending its life and protecting your investment.
Second, good drainage prevents the growth of mold, algae, and decay, which can weaken the roof and pose health problems.
Finally, a well-maintained drainage system improves the overall appearance and value of your commercial property, increasing curb appeal while preserving structural integrity.
There are different types of commercial roof drains, and each one of them has different functions to protect the roof structure. Here’s a look at the most common types and their functions:
Interior Drains
They prevent water buildup by capturing rainwater across large roof sections and draining it safely away. Interior drains are often paired with strainers to block debris and keep the drainage system clear.
Scuppers
Scuppers are openings along the roof edge, typically used on flat roofs with a slight slope toward the edges. They’re effective for quickly draining heavy rainfall and reducing the risk of pooling water.
Gutters
Similar to residential gutters, commercial gutters are installed along the roof edge, especially on sloped or pitched roofs. They catch rainwater and direct it into downspouts, which carry the water away from the building’s foundation.
Overflow Drains
Overflow drains activate when the primary drainage system can’t keep up, preventing water from pooling excessively and causing structural strain or leaks.
Commercial vs. Residential Roofs: Key Differences In Design, Material & Maintenance
Here are some of the key differences between residential and commercial roofs:
- Size & Design: Commercial roofs are often larger and more sophisticated in design than residential roofs. They are frequently flat or have a low slope, which can cause water pooling if suitable drainage is not installed.
- Materials: Commercial roofing materials are often more robust and durable, built to resist harsh weather and high foot traffic. Modified bitumen, built-up roofing, and single-ply membranes are examples of commonly used materials.
- Installation & Maintenance: Commercial roof installation and maintenance are more difficult, requiring specialized equipment and knowledge. Regular maintenance by a professional roofing company is required to keep a commercial roof in good shape.
How Neglected Drains Can Damage Your Roof
You might think that neglecting roof drains is not a big deal, but it can cause costly damage over time, so it’s best not to overlook drain maintenance.
When drains are clogged, they allow water to accumulate on the roof, creating weight strain on the roofing materials. If you have a flat and low-slope roof, then the structure is more vulnerable because water cannot naturally drain off without assistance. Not to mention that prolonged pooling can degrade roofing materials, leading to warping, cracking, or leaks.
Blocked drains often lead to water backing up and finding its way into the building. This can cause leaks that damage insulation, drywall, and other building materials, creating a need for expensive repairs.
Additionally, neglected drainage can cause structural strain due to excessive water weight on the roof. At the same time, it can cause standing water, creating the perfect conditions for mold and mildew to grow.
Top Benefits Of Regular Drain Maintenance For Commercial Roofs
Regular drain upkeep for commercial roofs offers numerous benefits that go beyond simply keeping the roof dry. Here are some:
- It prevents water accumulation and weight strain by keeping drains clear of debris.
- It reduces the risk of leaks and structural damage before it can lead to costly repairs inside the building.
- Keeping drains clear and water moving off the roof prevents deterioration of roofing materials due to standing water. This extends the lifespan of both the roof membrane and the underlying structure.
- Proactive maintenance reduces the likelihood of sudden, expensive repairs that can catch building managers off-guard.
- It also protects your commercial property against pest and mold issues.
- By preventing damage to the roof, walls, and interior, they help maintain insulation performance, reduce energy loss, and improve the building’s overall durability.
Protect Your Investment: Call a Professional Roofing Company In Arizona
Hiring a professional roofing company in Arizona for commercial roof drainage is essential to guarantee a long-lasting roof that keeps your business well-protected. If you want to make sure your drainage is in good condition, contact Arizona Roofing Systems today, we have an experienced team ready to help!
ARIZONA ROOFING SYSTEMS
935 E. Sorenson
Mesa, AZ 85203
Tel: 480-218-8888
Email: [email protected]
Website: www.azroofingsystems.com