Regularly inspecting your church roof and knowing when to call a professional roofer are keys to maintaining it properly. Take care of your church roof, and you will help extend its lifespan as it protects and beautifies your property.
Prioritizing church roof maintenance is essential to the health of your building’s structure.
Read on to gain knowledge of your roof’s maintenance needs.
Know Which of the Two Types of Commercial Roofing You Have
1. Commercial flat roof
There are several types of flat roofs for commercial buildings. Knowing what kind you have and what to watch out for is essential. Flat roofs include single-ply membrane EPDM, TPO, and Mod Bit roofs.
What to be aware of: Standing water can cause damage to this type of roofing. It’s important to inspect it regularly and remove any standing water after rainstorms.
2. Steep slope commercial roofing
Shingles are not just used for residential roofing; they are also used on steep-slope commercial roofs. Asphalt shingles are the most common material and are well-known for their affordability and customizable color and design.
Metal roofing is another option, and its longevity, low maintenance, and added curb appeal make it a sound choice for church buildings. Slate and clay are additional materials used on steep-slope roofs, famous for their reliable protection from the elements and distinct beauty.
What to be aware of: When storms arise, water runs off this roof type and into the gutters. Problems to watch out for include missing or damaged shingles, clogged gutters, and discoloration (water spots) on the highest level of your interior ceilings and walls.
Inspect Your Roof Systematically and After Major Storms
Every spring and fall, as well as after major storms, inspect your church’s roof. If you spot the need for repairs or see anything concerning, contact a reputable roofer and have it professionally inspected.
Start inside your building
Regardless of your roofing type, you’ll locate problems early if you take time to check your roof from the inside and outside.
- Check for discoloration – Indoors, go to your top floor, attic, or another space that lets you see your roof’s interior. Look for discoloration, a sign that your roof is leaking or your gutters are backed up.
- Check for roof leaks – Inside your building’s attic, do you see sunlight peeking through your roof? Is insulation moist or moldy? If you see evidence like this that your roof leaks, call a roofer immediately and have it professionally inspected.
Next, inspect your roof from outside
- Flat roof – Check your flat roof for leaks, mold, fungus, visible surface degradation, and standing water. If you see any of these, contact a roofer for a professional inspection.
- Steep-slope roof – Step away from your church building with a good pair of binoculars, and from the safety of the ground, take a careful look at your roof shingles. If you see missing, damaged, cracked, or blistering shingles, contact a trustworthy roofing company and have your roof inspected.
Keep Your Gutters Clean!
Regular gutter cleaning is one of the most important things you can do to extend the life of your church’s roof. When gutters get clogged due to leaves, bird nests, or debris buildup, water can infiltrate your roof, damage it, and shorten its life.
Gutters are designed to channel water away from your church building, protecting its roof and structural integrity! They may look small, but they have a big job. It’s dangerous to climb a ladder and clean your building’s gutters. Consider investing in gutter guards—to avoid clogged gutters—or hire a pro to clean them.
Be Aware of Your Roof’s Lifespan and Replace It When Needed
Your roof is aging daily, and when it reaches the end of its life, it’s time for a roof replacement. Know when your roof was installed and how long it should last. Don’t procrastinate, allowing damage to increase. When your roof needs an inspection or repairs, contact a professional roofer.
Reliable Roofing in the Greater Kansas City Area
At Christian Brothers Roofing, we offer a Certified Commercial Maintenance Program that will help extend the life of your roof.
Have any more questions about your Kansas City area church’s roof? Don’t hesitate to reach out to us!
