By Dave Locklear, Arrowstar Roofing
(Originally published in OKC Friday)
You had leaks for years, but finally installed a new roofing system and now you won’t have to worry about anything for several years, right? Wrong….
Preventive maintenance should start the day the roof is completed. Proactive and preventive maintenance will extend the life of your roof and save you money in the long run.
A lot can happen to a roof in six months to one year, especially in Oklahoma. Not only is Oklahoma’s weather extreme, but we are a state that does not require roofing companies to have a state license like plumbers, electricians, etc. We have to solely accept the fact that our roofer has installed the roof according to manufacturer’s specifications and he’s honest.
With over 30 years experience in the roofing industry, I can tell you that every roof that is at least 2-3 years old requires some maintenance every year. Roofs need cleaning off each year to remove debris, cans, etc. that will end up in drains, clogging them up.
Simple roofs usually require pipe boot replacement after just a few years due to the poor quality of the material. Although some states require pipe jacks be made out of lead, Oklahoma does not. Lead will last longer than the roof will.
The most important step to protecting your roof is Spring and Fall inspections. The fee for this is usually minimal.
With preventive maintenance being so important you would think roofing companies would have a repair/maintenance division, but few do. Most only want to install new roofs.
After visiting with a customer recently and telling him of the importance of maintaining his roof instead of always installing a new roof, I explained, “If you had a leak under your sink and a plumber came over and said, ‘Well, it’s sure leaking—we’ll have to replace the plumbing in the whole house.’” The customer chuckled and said, “Of course not.” However, many roofers convince homeowners they need a new roof when they really only need a little repair and maintenance.
Many commercial flat roofs can be maintained by applying coatings, if done within 3 to 5 years. This process can extend the life, in some cases, indefinitely, as well as reflect heat and UV radiation.
The most important thing to remember about your roof is, don’t forget about it and get a qualified roofing professional to Inspect, Inspect, Inspect…
