Damage to your roof isn’t something you want for your home, office, or school. Roof upgrades can be costly, but the risks associated with neglecting roof maintenance are high enough to warrant a second consideration. If the roof of your school is getting up there in years, here are a few ways to tell if you need an upgrade sooner rather than later.
Water or Algae on the Roof? Roof Upgrade
Take a look at the color of your roof. If you notice dark spots and streaks or signs of algae growth, these could be signs of moisture. These signs of moisture may be an indication of necessary roof repair or replacement.
Even if moisture isn’t making it all the way through to your classroom, you should never have standing water on your roof for very long. Water should evaporate or drain off of a roof system within a day or two.
If you’re noticing puddles of water on your roof days after the last rain, then that’s a major cause for concern. Ponding water can lead to a sagging roof, leaks inside your building, and dangerous mold growth if not addressed.
Musty Smell
Moisture inside your ceiling can create the perfect environment for mold and mildew, which can result in a damp, musty smell in your building.
If you notice a continuous bad smell, especially when it rains, this is a good indicator that your roof needs repair. Even without seeing evidence of leaks – dripping water, stains on the ceiling, streaks down the wall – a damp smell is evidence of a moisture problem and you should have your roof inspected as soon as possible.
Damage Around Roof Fixtures
If there is visible damage around lights, chimneys, or other roof fixtures then it’s time to replace your roof.
Damage to your flashing, especially, should be checked for regularly. Correctly sealed joints prevent water from getting into your building.
You should also be on the lookout for bubbling or cracking of your roof’s material, as this can be a sign of aging and a decrease in the integrity of your roof system, as it indicates moisture getting trapped underneath the surface of your roof. Even if you don’t think the bubbles are that bad, they should be looked at and repaired immediately to prevent further damage.
High Energy Bills, No Matter The Season; You Need A Roof Upgrade
Your roof plays an important part in regulating the temperature in your school. If you are noticing an increase in your energy bills, your school’s roof might be the cause.
A quality roof has insulative properties that keep heat in when it’s cold and out when it’s hot. If the insulation is tired out or your roof is damaged and letting in moisture, your HVAC system has to work overtime to maintain the set temperature.
A new roof is one of the best ways to lower your school’s energy bill.
Depending on the material, a great roof can pay for itself in a matter of years with energy savings alone, which is just a bonus to providing a comfortable learning environment for students and faculty.
Damage to your school’s roof, no matter the severity, is important to address as soon as possible. Even small school roof repairs can help keep your roof in great working condition, but eventually, those small repairs start to add up. If you think it’s time to replace your roof, then our team at IRC can help.
We can see the damage underneath the surface of your roof with the help of infrared technology so that you can rest easier knowing we caught every problem.
IRC’s infrared scanning process detects leaks, even hidden pockets of moisture under the surface, identifying problems before they become costly leaks. Don’t wait until after leaks and musty smells disrupt class to get a roof scan. Be proactive with the care of your building and your students.
See if you qualify for a free infrared roof scan today.
