CONTRIBUTORS | ROOFING
Roof Maintenance Misconceptions
DAVID PAVLICEK
A common misunderstanding is that your warranty will cover any problem no matter the cause
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s a roofer, the most common question I’m asked is, “Can I repair this, or do I need to re-roof?” My answer is always the same: The roof system and all its components need to be assessed to determine the remaining life of the roof. What’s critical is the amount of moisture that has entered the system and the effect this will have on the roof deck and its structure. After being in the roofing industry for over 40 years, I’ve seen the life cycles of all types of roof systems and what works to extend the life of your roof no matter where you are in the life cycle. I’ve also seen what doesn’t work. Here are a few common misconceptions about roof maintenance:
Misconception 1: I’m covered, I have a roof warranty in place.
Truth: A roof warranty is your manufacturer’s assurance that the roof system you installed will last for the time period identified under normal conditions with regular maintenance. It is a common misunderstanding that your roof warranty will cover any roofing problem no matter the cause. The reality is that most manufacturers specify in their warranties that regular maintenance is required, and negligence to do so may void your warranty. Reading and understanding your warranty is critical. Warranties are written to protect the manufacturer. Misconception 2: Nothing can happen to my roof, it’s not moving—it just sits there.
Truth: While a roof is not actively “moving” like an elevator or HVAC system, it is the first point of impact by the
elements. Hawaii’s climate is harsh on roofing systems—constant UV impact and heat causes the expansion and contraction of the building envelope, which in turn impacts the roofing system. Also, what your roof looked like a year ago is likely not what your roof looks like today. Data is perishable. Roofs are accessed by all types of contractors maintaining their equipment on the roof, and unintended damage to the roof often occurs. Depending on the immediate surroundings, foliage or other debris can quickly pile up, potentially clogging and backing up the water exit points on the rooftop, leading to overflow and leaks.
Misconception 3: My maintenance staff can take care of my roof. Truth: Today’s roofing systems have come a long way. They are complex, utilizing an array of materials like rubbers, modified asphalts, plastics, wood, asphalt and aluminum, metals and other types of synthetic materials. Most building maintenance personnel are not trained to understand the complexity of today’s roof systems. Utilizing incompatible materials often does more harm than good. Keep in mind that an improper repair can also risk voiding the manufacturer’s warranty. Trying to “save” more with in-house repairs can often end up costing the owner more if the repair doesn’t work, the repair has to be undone and fixed properly or the repair was made using wrong materials and voided the manufacturer’s warranty. Misconception 4: Roof maintenance programs are expensive. Truth: Depending on your roof’s existing condition, typically a maintenance
36 BUILDING MANAGEMENT HAWAII | DECEMBER 2020
Top: Weeds can take root and damage the roof membranes. Middle: Interior gutters full of debris and trash lead to clogged water exit points during rains. Bottom: Roof drains unmaintained can lead to plant growth clogging the drains. See Roof Maintenance on page 40