By Brian Wallace
The biggest roof expense may start from just a small problem. Many expensive roofing problems often start very small and don't begin as major failures. Minor leaks may be overlooked, seen harmless and not as urgent. Property owners may put off or delay very necessary repairs when there is no immediate disruption. It is very important to keep these things in mind since small issues grow over time. Waiting for visible damage can mean waiting too long and can increase costs dramatically.
Water damage can stretch beyond the roof itself. A simple leak can allow water into the building, deteriorating the whole infrastructure. Water has the potential to damage ceilings, walls insulation and even flooring. Meaning any inventory or business equipment may also be affected and at risk. Moisture can even create additional unnecessary building concerns, making the cost of repairing the interior of the building may exceed the original roofing problem.
Drainage problems are also a recurring problem and very easy to overlook. Commercial roofs are heavily dependent on proper drainage, assisting with any buildup over time. Leaves, dirt and other debris can block drains, leading to standing water. Standing water can further damage roofing materials and add additional stress on the framework itself. Regular inspections and cleaning of these drains is a very easy preventative measure to take.
Small cracks, deteriorating materials and damaged flashing can worsen over time. High winds and heaven rain can assist with exposing all the weak areas. Property owners having to deal with emergency repairs are not only time consuming but financially a headache. Planned regular repairs are much easier to manage and over time.
Roof damage can sometimes lead to insurance claims. Claims may involve electrical issues, water damage or any other outstanding building issues. For commercial property owners facing increasing insurance expenses is already enough. Commercial insurance costs averaged approximately $2,726 per month in 2023. Maintenance also helps support risk management and prevents these problems from ever happening.
Maintenance costs require a regular investment and can help demonstrate a proactive approach. Holding records shows ongoing care and can make it easier for owners to plan for future maintenance decisions. Kato Roofing estimates that maintaining a 20,000-square-foot commercial roof can cost around $2,000 - $3,000 annually. Taking these preventative measures can help avoid $100,000 - $200,000 in unnecessary costs for owners. These small investments can assist the roofing systems lifespan and delay premature replacement. Long-term plans for costs help with budgeting, assisting with limiting preventable maintenance risks for owners before they have to deal with a problem far worse.
In the scope of it, ignoring problems no matter the size, can only make them worse. Very small details and issues slowly become very expensive repairs. Regular maintenance helps provide more control over the company's assets and helps protect the building's structure. Addressing these problems before they worsen, helps protect the building, finances and long term investment. A very proactive approach is about preventing tomorrow's problem today.
Brian Wallace is the founder and president of NowSourcing, a infographic design agency based in Louisville, Ky., and Cincinnati, Ohio, and works with companies that range from small business to Fortune 500. Wallace also runs a local event to make the Louisville/Cincinnati region more competitive (#thinkbig).
