Check out these few tips on how you can prevent mold from developing in the roof of your commercial building.
Check for Clear Drainage
One of the first steps that you want to take to prevent roof mold is to check your drainage system. In a commercial building, it’s quite common to have a residential type of system that can’t quite keep up to the demands of a commercial drainage system. The next thing you’ll want to do is to make sure that your gutters and drainage systems are clear of any debris that would prevent water from draining properly. In addition, check that the drainage system leads excess water away from the building so it doesn’t damage the foundation.
Stay Up to Date on Maintenance
Your roof is your building first defense again the elements. Maintaining your roof is one of the most important ways you can prevent water from entering your roof that can potentially lead to a mold problem. Tree coverage over your roof can also threaten it with mold damage. If a large tree hangs and shades an area of your roof, it can take longer for that area to dry when wet. That creates the perfect opportunity for mold to grow.
Look for Standing Water
Standing water is often the cause of mold growth on top of a roof, this is more likely to occur on a flat style roof. If you find standing water on the roof it is a sign that your drainage system is not working properly and should be inspected by a professional.
Install Dehumidifiers
Mold thrives in warm and moist environments. Excess condensation is a common occurrence in many commercial roofs. Dehumidifiers can be used to remove excess moister from the air and make it a less ideal environment for mold to thrive.
Schedule Roof Inspections
Regular roof inspections and maintenance is key to keeping your roof in tip top shape. This helps you be proactive and know if there are any leaks, standing water, mold or algae growth that needs to be addressed. A good idea is to always check your roof after an extreme weather event or after a drastic fluctuation in temperatures. Temperature fluctuations can cause cracks and impact the structural integrity of the roof. If you find that there are any repairs that need to be addressed, do so immediately to prevent more damage from occurring. The longer you wait, the more opportunity you give moisture to get under your roof and cause a mold outbreak.
Secure the Edge of Your Roof
The edge of your roof is a place where water can easily get in under the roof and cause mold to grow. If the roof edge isn’t properly secured, not only could water get in under the roof, but it becomes a safety hazard in the event of a storm due to dangerous high winds. In extreme cases, an unsecured roof edge could cause parts of the roof to come off and blow away in the event of high winds.
Check for Excess Moister
Excess moister inside your building provides the perfect environment for mold to grow and thrive in your commercial building. Make sure to inspect the ceiling area and look for water damage signs. If you do see any signs of damage, there’s a good chance that there is a leak or standing water on your roof.
Maintain HVAC
If mold happens to get under your roof, it could spread through your building relatively easily. Your HVAC system could become contaminated with mold spores, and the spores can spread throughout the building. It can impact the health of those who are in the building as well. If you notice any mold in your building or in the air ducts, you’ll need to have them professionally cleaned to remove all mold spores. As a precaution, you should have your HVAC system inspected regularly for mold.
Stay on Top of Your Roof
In a sense, you have to stay on top of your roof to prevent roof mold. Maintaining a roof takes work, especially if you have a flat commercial roof. Regular maintenance will save you money in the long run and protect you from costly damages. Replacing and repairing damaged roofing material greatly reduces your chances in developing mold.
Get Professional Help
Mold can have a detrimental impact on the health of your employees and your organization. Whether you’re a small or big business, roof mold can be a huge issue. Once mold takes a hold of your building it can be a battle to remove. The more extensive the mold infestation, the more difficult it becomes to remove. Our experts can help.
Contact Blackmon Mooring & BMS CAT to find out how we can help your business.