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By Ryan Berlin, Managing Editor

October 2017

Only you can prevent roof damage.

That statement is not entirely true, but maintenance and engineering managers can play a central role in preventing situations that can lead to damaged roofs. One key component of preventive roof maintenance is tracking who accesses the roof.

“Often times, managers don’t keep any record of who comes on their roof,” says BJ Steele with Progressive Materials. “A lot of times, leaks come from other trades doing work on the roof. Someone servicing an AC unit could drop tools and damage the membrane or the roof system that causes a leak.”

Managers also can minimize roof damage by designating specific paths on the roof for technicians to use in order to minimize foot traffic. They also can require technicians to put down a blanket that can cushion the fall of any dropped tool and prevent it from damaging or puncturing the roof.

“Roof warranties are very important, and it is important to know the limitations and expectations,” Steele says. “Preventive measures and keeping good records of who has been on the roof can alleviate a lot of the headaches and a lot of problems.”

— Ryan Berlin