Few business owners start their company with a deep knowledge about commercial buildings. This can leave them full of questions, like “How do business owners budget for a commercial roof?”
Since commercial roof budgeting can be an overwhelming process—not only for construction but also for ongoing maintenance—we put together this brief checklist for how business owners can plan ahead to pay for their roofing maintenance costs.
1. Get regular roofing inspections from a reputable company.
The first step in maintaining and budgeting for commercial roof maintenance is to find a roofing company to evaluate the roof’s condition. While facility managers are capable of performing a basic survey of a roof, it takes a real professional to identify a problem that may require a roof repair or a roof recovery. Getting regular inspections several times a year can help building owners plan for upcoming repairs and set aside money in the budget.
2. Prioritize commercial roof maintenance.
Commercial roof maintenance, over time, is significantly cheaper than a commercial roof replacement. Maintenance prevents small repairs from becoming major, expensive problems. Regular maintenance also ensures that a roof installation lasts its entire expected life. This helps building owners better plan their budgets and gives them years to save for the eventual replacement costs of the roof.
3. Choose a durable material for the roof.
Certain types of roofing materials last longer and require less maintenance than others. Choosing materials like built-up roofing or a PVC roof typically last longer with fewer repairs. Consult with your roofing contractor to discuss the best materials for your project and budget.
4. Subscribe to a roof management plan.
Some companies within the roofing industry offer long-term roof management plans, like Maxwell’s MAXCare®. MAXCare® offers a customized maintenance plan for each building within a company’s portfolio. The plan also has budget planning tools for business owners to prepare for major expenses.
5. Hang on to your warranties.
Most roofing products come with a manufacturer’s warranty. If there is a defect in the product, a manufacturer is required to replace it, unless it was installed incorrectly or not properly maintained. A reputable roofing contractor will install everything correctly, maintain it, and assist in fulfilling the warranty in the event that something goes wrong. If your roofer cannot do any of these things, it could cost your business in the long run.
If you’re ready to get started with budgeting for your commercial roof, contact Maxwell Roofing & Sheet Metal, Inc. today! Our team is experienced and ready to help.