Spring and early summer mean melted snow and increased precipitation, two conditions that can result in roof leaks, interior damage, and work stoppage – if you are unprepared. Start the spring season with a proactive approach to outdoor maintenance, assessing your roof’s condition, identifying any interior or exterior risks, and addressing all concerns before they escalate.

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Here is a spring roof checklist for managers looking to stay on top of maintenance this season:

• Even as colder weather still persists, look for interior evidence of leaks that may be coming from your roof. This includes stained ceiling tiles, peeling paint, mould, musty odour, or bubbling drywall.
• Assess the exterior of your building for signs of any issues, such as overflowing/clogged gutters or downspouts, loose or damaged edge metal visible from ground level, or warped or separated flashing along parapet walls.
• Conduct regular seasonal roof maintenance that incudes removing debris from the roof, clearing the drains, cutting down foliage or trees that overhang and may fall onto the roof. These are simple steps that can ensure your drains are doing the job and water does not accumulate on the roof, potentially resulting in a leak, however, ensure that you do not access the roof without proper fall protection and training.
• Checking on the roof means simply observing and identifying any potential defects, do not try and complete any repairs, wash the surface, or install patches or caulking. These are jobs for a roofing professional that require specialized expertise and materials – and could also void your warranty if yours is still valid.
• After a heavy rainfall or high winds, reassess indoor and outdoor locations and note any changes or areas to investigate as the season progresses to stay ahead.
• Document the location and include photos of any issues you find to compare to your next assessment or to provide to a professional, should the need arise.

Your roof is an expensive investment, so including it in your spring maintenance program can help you extend its lifespan, and avoid interior damage, costly repairs, and work stoppage this season.