Proper insulation is a critical component of any building. When insulation becomes compromised due to damage, deterioration, or improper installation, it can have several negative consequences for the structure and its inhabitants.
One of the most noticeable effects of poor insulation is increased energy costs. Heat escapes through gaps and cracks in the winter, forcing HVAC systems to work harder to maintain a comfortable temperature. Cool air leaks out in the summer, and hot outdoor air leaks in, making air conditioners run longer to compensate.
According to the Department of Energy, air leaks can increase heating and cooling costs by up to 30% in a typical home. Upgrading insulation and sealing air leaks could save over $200 per year on energy bills.
In addition to higher utility bills, compromised insulation leads to uncomfortable indoor temperature fluctuations. Rooms may feel drafty when it’s cold out or stifling hot during warmer weather. This forces occupants to continually adjust thermostats to find a happy medium.
Properly insulated spaces stay at more consistent temperatures, reducing the need for thermostat tweaking. Sealing leaks and adding insulation helps contain the heated or cooled air in the appropriate rooms.
Faulty insulation can also create safety hazards in some cases. Insulation containing asbestos, for example, can release toxic particles into the air when damaged. Rodents and insects can nest in loose fill insulation, increasing disease risks.
Moisture accumulation in wall cavities due to condensation from air leaks could contribute to mold growth. Periodic insulation inspections and proper maintenance help identify and resolve any potential hazards.
Interested in learning how to detect wet insulation in your facility?
The roof is one of the most critical areas to insulate properly. It represents a large surface vulnerable to outdoor elements. Routinely inspecting and maintaining roof insulation ensures it continues effectively regulating indoor temperatures.
During roof inspections, check insulation for any visible damage, leaks, deterioration, or compromised seals. Look for sagging ceilings or stained areas that may indicate concealed moisture issues.
Use an infrared camera to identify missing insulation or areas where cold air may be infiltrating. Probe insulation depth and density and replace any missing or compacted sections. Seal any penetrations, tears, gaps, or connections between insulation and the roof deck. Brush off debris around roof vents or equipment. Check vapor retarders and repair them as needed.
For built-up roofs, ensure top layers of protective surfacing are intact. Re-apply gravel or coatings over insulation as required. Remove ponding water, which can damage insulation over time. A proactive commercial roof maintenance visit helps proactively identify and resolve any insulation deficiencies before they escalate into major problems.
Engaging a qualified roofing contractor to inspect and service insulation is the best way to keep it performing optimally. They have the expertise to detect issues and make necessary repairs to improve energy efficiency and safety.
Applying proactive and routine maintenance to your roof, not just the insulation, provides a wealth of advantages to business owners, including:
Proper maintenance helps ensure your commercial roofing system operates at peak energy efficiency levels. Roof coatings, when applied correctly, can provide additional insulation properties. Keeping your roof surface clean through regular maintenance removes debris that can trap heat on the roof. Establishing drainage paths and clearing blocked drains helps prevent pooling water, which can damage insulation.
According to roofing experts, adding a cool roof system during maintenance can lower roof surface temperature by up to 50 degrees F. This keeps the building cooler and reduces air conditioning costs. Consider energy-efficient roofing products when repairs or replacements are needed.
Preventative maintenance extends the service life of your commercial roofing system, delaying the high cost of major repairs or complete replacement. Your roofing contractor should provide a detailed maintenance plan outlining critical tasks on a schedule.
Typical preventative maintenance includes:
When you continually invest in upkeep, your roof lasts longer.
Your commercial roof is exposed to damaging elements daily. UV rays, dramatic temperature shifts, wind, hail, snow loads, and excess moisture all take a toll over time. Stay ahead of deterioration through proactive maintenance.
A maintenance program tailored to your system addresses vulnerabilities before they escalate into leaks, cracks, rust, and other problems—ultimately extending the life of your roof. Your roofing contractor inspects thoroughly twice yearly, looking for signs of premature wear. Catching issues early keeps your roof in top condition.
No matter how well maintained, damage to your commercial roof is inevitable. Things like age or uncontrollable factors like weather, downed limbs, or disaster eventually take their toll. When routine maintenance isn’t a practical option for returning your roof to optimal condition, you have two main options:
Your contractor may spot issues during a routine inspection, or you may notice a leak inside your commercial building. Typical repairs include sealing membrane punctures, reflashing joints, replacing damaged sections, coating surfaces, and fixing gutters and drainage systems. Targeted repairs extend roof life at a lower cost than complete replacement.
It should be pointed out that while roof repairs typically require less investment than repairs, the cost of ineffective repairs quickly adds up. Consult a reputable roofer to see if a repair is a temporary fix or provides long-term value. It may be in your best financial interest to pay more for a replacement than risk continued repair costs or damage that extends to other parts of your building.
There comes a point when repairs no longer make sense for an aging commercial roofing system. Replacement is the next step when your roof has extensive damage, chronic leaks, or reaches the expected service life span.
A reputable roofing contractor can assess when your roof has reached the end of life based on your maintenance records, leaks, membrane condition, and the particular roofing product. Schedule replacement before your roof fails.
At ROOFCORP, we understand the importance of maintaining commercial roofing systems. That’s why we offer customizable commercial roof maintenance plans that focus on the specific needs of your system. If you’re noticing signs of damage or are experiencing skyrocketing utility costs that indicate roofing issues, we welcome you to contact us today. We offer free visual inspections and consultations to discuss the maintenance, repair, and replacement options that make the most sense for you.
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