The Cost of Waiting: Why Proactive Roof Maintenance May Help to Prevent Future Unplanned Expenses

Learn why proactive summer roof maintenance may help property managers and building owners avoid costly fall roofing repairs and extend roof life.

Why Should Building Owners Address Small Roof Issues in Summer?

Small commercial roof issues can become expensive problems if they are left unaddressed. Clogged drains, rooftop debris, punctures, and signs of deteriorated caulking may seem minor during summer, but fall storms, temperature swings, and added moisture can make those problems worse.

Proactive maintenance may help property managers and building owners identify issues early, before they can lead to leaks, interior damage, emergency repairs, or premature roof replacement.

How Can Preventive Roof Maintenance Save Money?

A regular roof maintenance program is one of the most cost-effective ways to protect your roofing investment. Every roof is different, but JM recommends checking several key roof areas at least twice a year to help increase roof performance and service life. For more information, please visit the Johns Manville Owner’s Manual.

The cost savings could be substantial. A maintenance program typically costs just 1–3% of the estimated total replacement cost each year and may help save up to 50% over the life of a 30-year roof compared to replacing it every 15 to 20 years.^*

What Should Be Included in a Commercial Roof Maintenance Checklist?

A sample maintenance checklist may include reviewing:

• General roof condition for leaks or deterioration
• Walls, roof edges, coping caps, gravel stops, gutters and fascia
• Drains, downspouts and scuppers to ensure water flows freely
• Rooftop units, penetrations and expansion joints
• Interior ceilings and deck areas for stains or signs of moisture
• Debris, contaminants or blocked drainage areas

JM also recommends keeping roof inspection reports and activity records to help track roof performance over time.

How Can Peak Plus Five Help Extend Roof Value?

For eligible building owners, JM Peak Plus Five^™ can add even more value. With Peak Plus Five^™, qualifying Johns Manville Peak Advantage^® Guarantees may be extended by five years beyond the original term at no additional cost.

JM Peak Plus Five™ Program highlights include:

• 5-year extension of the Peak Advantage^® Guarantee
• Available through Pinnacle Council^® and 5280 Council^™ contractors
• Annual Maintenance & Inspection agreement required
• No Dollar Limit Guarantee with extension rider

To help protect the life and value of your Peak Advantage^® Guarantee, consider starting a regular maintenance program now. Building owners can work with their installing Peak Advantage^® contractor or contact JM Owner Services to find a qualified contractor who can help begin a maintenance program.

FAQ: Commercial Roof Maintenance

How often should a commercial roof be inspected?

JM recommends inspecting key roof areas at least twice a year, typically after winter and after summer, when the roof has experienced seasonal stress.

Is roof maintenance required for Peak Plus Five?

Yes. Peak Plus Five requires an Annual Maintenance & Inspection agreement with an eligible Pinnacle Council^® or 5280 Council^™ contractor.

How to start a maintenance program?

Building owners can contact their installing contractor or reach out to JM Owner Services for help finding a Peak Advantage Contractor.

^{*Roofing Contractor Magazine, June 2012.}