Volume 50, May 2004: Spring Check List

Perspectives
A Quarterly Information Source from Benchmark, Inc.
Volume 50 May 2004

Spring Check List

by Bruce Cunningham

As many of you know, winter can wreak havoc on roof systems. So it's important to do a visual inspection during the spring months to determine if the roof has experienced any damage since your last inspection.

While it's tempting to think that if you have no leaks everything on the roof is fine - this is usually not the case. Oftentimes it's little deficiencies that cause the biggest problems, if not detected early. Finding and making repairs before they become more severe can potentially save thousands of costly repair dollars - or worse, unexpected replacements costs.

Listed below are a few items to inspect this spring:

Leaks - if you experienced any leaks during the winter months, it's extremely important to check the areas where you suspect the leaks have occurred. If these areas appear to be damaged, call a repair contractor in to thoroughly inspect them.

Field Membrane - Walk the entire roof to check the membrane for damage or minor deficiencies.

Perimeter Flashings / Penetration Flashings - If flashings look deteriorated or loose, have them fixed as soon as possible.

Roof Related Sheet Metal - Check for missing or unsecured metal items.

Drains - Check to make sure drains are draining properly. Ponding water on the roof is often a sign that drains are plugged or inoperative. Remove any debris from drains.

Miscellaneous Conditions - Check for debris, damaged walls, broken windows, etc.