PETER BLAUFEUX AIA ARCHITECTS

wpe3.gif (887 bytes) 200 PARK AVENUE SOUTH NEW YORK, NY 10003

More Questions

 

The information contained in answers to "Ask the Architect" questions is intended to be general in nature only. Exact solutions to particular problems depend on knowledge of specific site conditions, local laws, building codes and regulations. For site specific solutions, a licensed Architect or Engineer should be consulted. Peter Blaufeux AIA Architects does not assume any liability for the information contained in "'Ask the Architect" responses.

Dear Architect:

What should we do to inspect our roof? We only have a few maintenance personnel on staff.

The Architect Replies:

Manage your roof inspections the way you manage your facilities. Catching a small problem is better than letting it become a major one. This will save your institution money, reduce losses and increase the life of your roof system.

Inspect your roof at least twice a year. If a building has leak-sensitive contents or procedures, three inspections a year are appropriate.

Coordinate the inspections with your local weather patterns. In areas like Florida and the Gulf Coast, do pre-and post-hurricane season inspections. Check for damages after every major storm. In northern climates, inspect the roof in late fall and early spring. Inspect after you install any new rooftop equipment (make sure to use the system manufacturer's details and materials.) If possible, have the original roofer do the patching for the new equipment. Workers must remove all debris and fasteners whenever they install new rooftop equipment. Inform the roof system manufacturer before any new work is done to assure their warranty is not voided.

l Clean leaves and debris from roof drains.
l Look for evidence of ponded water at low spots.
l Fix blisters, tears, interply delaminations and open seams.
l Repair damaged flashings or sealants.
l Make sure air intakes have storm-resistant louvers and bird screens.
l Verify that sealant pans are completely filled at equipment supports.
l Remove materials and unsecured items stored on the roof which may blow off in strong winds.

Keep a written inspection report with pertinent dated photographs. These may prove useful if any guarantee or warranty claims are necessary.

Hire a local roof maintenance company or roof designer to do the inspections if your personnel cannot. Ask for a lump sum inspection price or a square foot cost based on an agreed scope of work. Have the inspector train your people in roof inspecting. Local roofing contractors may not provide the unbiased service your facility needs.

Maintain all roof documentation including important names and phone numbers, the original design drawings, specifications, system catalogs, hazardous material reports (if any), construction reports, photos and the manufacturer warranty.

Send email to info@pbarcht.com with any questions or comments about our services or this web site.
Last modified: September 23, 1999