Safety First As Weather Gets Cooler
 
As we head into winter and start anticipating cooler temperatures, it is important for facility managers to shift their focus to the roof. Now is the best time to consider the latest trends and advancements in safety, maintenance, and warranties. Roof systems often take the brunt of heavy rains, increased precipitation, and snow. Making sure the roof is in its best condition is key to maintaining high facility performance and limiting risk.
Limiting Overhead Risk
Advancements in roof technology and new safety protocols all work together to minimize risk and accidents, keep insurance premiums low, and help to maximize roof service life. Below are a few practices and tips to help facility managers get the most out of their roofs and overhead costs this winter. 
Rooftop Safety Trends

New trends in workplace safety help to make sure everyone who has access to the roof can do so with minimal risk. Good examples are skylight covers and w alkway pads. Skylight covers prevent missteps onto an undetected skylight. Walkway pads work to provide a non-slip surface and also serve as protection from wear and tear associated with individuals accessing the roof for maintenance and repairs.  Another trend is the use of safety tapes to visually draw attention around roof perimeters, skylights and other hazards.  
Maintenance Approach

Roof systems should undergo periodic inspections and maintenance to maximize performance and to maintain warranties. One best practice is the removal of all debris from the roof to ensure proper water runoff and to prevent a weight overload on the roof deck. If a facility experiences a leak, initial inspections should look for clogged roof drains, loose counter flashings, broken skylights, open grills or vents, and broken water pipes.
Warranty Coverage

When it comes to warranties, facility managers often purchase
preventative maintenance programs   in order to maximize the life of their roofs and to follow warranty guidelines. There is now a trend of moving away from purchasing 10 year warranties and investing in 15- or even 20-year warranties. It is a good idea for facility managers to familiarize themselves with the manufacturer and workmanship warranties as well as purchased preventative maintenance programs to know exactly what is covered and what the best options are. A commercial roof is an investment that must be protected. 
To learn more about our Roof Maintenance Program, please click here.

Contact us today to schedule an appointment with our commercial account managers to discuss the best maintenance program for your budget and building needs.