Australia’s storm season brings the potential for severe weather, including high winds, heavy rain, and even hail. For commercial property owners, ensuring that your roof is prepared to withstand these conditions is vital to protect your investment.
Extreme weather can significantly impact commercial buildings, causing damage that leads to costly repairs and potential safety hazards. By taking proactive measures, you can minimise storm damage and extend the life of your roof.
Here are key steps to get your commercial roof storm-ready:
1. Schedule a roof inspection and make necessary repairs
A professional roof inspection helps identify vulnerabilities before storm season hits. Proactively addressing these issues can prevent minor problems from escalating in severe weather.
During an inspection, your roof inspector will focus on:
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- Checking for loose or missing roof covers
- Inspecting flashing and sealant for cracks
- Examining drainage systems to ensure they are clear of debris
Make sure any minor leaks are repaired promptly to prevent water from entering the building during heavy rain. Clean and clear gutters and downspouts, to avoid excessive overflow, backflow, leaks, and structural damage.
2. Reinforce your roof
Reinforcing commercial metal roofing is another crucial step to ensure durability against extreme weather. Consider:
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- Applying protective coatings to prevent rust and corrosion
- Securing loose panels and fasteners
- Properly sealing all joints
These steps will enhance your roof’s resilience during storms.
3. Maintain the area surrounding your roof
Trim any trees or branches overhanging your building to prevent them from damaging your roof during a storm.
Also, make sure rooftop heating, ventilation, air conditioning units, and skylights are securely fastened and have protective shields in place to defend against hail.
4. Prepare for emergencies
Have an emergency plan in place to handle potential roof damage. Assemble an emergency roof kit with a ladder, tarps, screws and sandbags. (It’s not advisable to do emergency repairs yourself; it’s safer to ask a professional.)
Establish a communication plan with your team to ensure a quick response for immediate repairs and safety measures.
It’s also helpful to have contact information for a reliable roofing professional in case of significant storm damage.
5. Review insurance coverage
Ensure that your insurance policy covers roof damage due to storms. It’s also worth reviewing the specifics of your coverage, such as deductibles and limitations on roof repairs or replacements. This can be an important part of preparedness, especially for larger properties.
6. Conduct a post-storm inspection
After a storm, a thorough inspection is essential to assess any damage and make necessary roof repairs. Look for:
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- Water stains on the ceiling
- Loose or damaged roof covers
- Blocked drainage systems
Addressing these issues quickly will help maintain the integrity of your commercial property and prevent further damage.
7. Schedule preventive maintenance year-round
While it’s important to inspect the roof before storm season, scheduling year-round preventive maintenance can help identify issues earlier.
Routine inspections allow for continual care, which reduces the risk of unexpected damage during storms.
We can assess every aspect of your roof, from searching for potential leaks to reviewing the quality of installations. Contact Roof Inspection Australia today to learn more about our services.
