Some people work as roofers for a summer or two. Others become lifelong devotees to the profession. Those who commit to roofing as a long-time profession really take the time to learn the details. Not only do they learn how to put roofs in place, but they also learn quite a lot about various roofing materials. This equips them to make good recommendations to homeowners who are looking for the right roof. We will also make some recommendations and tell you a bit more about roofers on this blog. While we are not roofers ourselves, we know a lot about the profession and are always happy to share.
You may not notice any traffic harm to your commercial roof in the short run. Nonetheless, long-term exposure of your commercial roof to traffic causes commercial roof damage. Excessive traffic punctures your commercial roofing materials and reduces your roof's longevity. So, you'll need a calculated traffic management plan to prevent damage. Discover four ways to curb the effects of your rooftop traffic.
1. Manage Foot Traffic
Use roof scuttles or smart locks to limit roof access to authorized personnel. You could also restrict areas harmed by foot traffic with an elevated walkway or walkway pad. The structures keep rooftop activities within the designated locations.
Also, set rules and put in place strategies that discourage traffic. For example, you could provide written instructions to your employees or subcontractors. If other non-roofers use heavy equipment, ask about safety procedures that reduce damage.
2. Train Your Employees and Contractors
Educate the employees about the importance of roof protection. You could request your roofing contractor to help you prepare the educational materials. The training enhances the collective responsibility needed to prevent traffic damage.
Roofers are aware of the harm of excess traffic and take necessary precautions. Nonetheless, if you have other non-roofing contractors, you'll need to offer educative sessions. Let the workers understand the measures to avoid traffic damage from heavy tools and equipment.
3. Enhance Accountability
Keep track of any workers, contractors, and approved employees you allow on your commercial roof. Have a log that includes who goes to the roof and reasons to do so. Then, if damage occurs, you can pinpoint when the harm occurred and which party to hold responsible. Besides, people are likelier to avoid actions that risk roof damage if you have a roof log system.
Also, allow your roofing contractor to hold you accountable. For instance, if you have traders with little roofing knowledge, consult your roofer. Likewise, only let your tenants install equipment, such as satellite dishes, with your roofer's guidance.
4. Ensure a Proper Design
Professional roofers ask detailed questions about your roof's use before installation. Let your contractor understand your roof's function and the expected traffic. Provided you are at par with your roofer, you will get a system that handles your traffic needs.
Sometimes, roof traffic increases after commercial roofing installation. Consider a reroof with materials that enhance your commercial roof's durability in such cases. Some options include SBS-modified bitumen roofing and thick single-ply membrane. You can reinforce or retrofit vulnerable areas if you don't plan to reroof the whole place.
Best practices enhance the durability and longevity of your commercial roof. So use the tips above to prevent the gradual damage associated with traffic.
Reach out to a commercial roof repair contractor for more information.