You don’t want to be called by a customer about your roof’s collapse if you are a business owner. A roof falling is a serious problem. There are two main risks. First, employees and customers could be injured. Then there is the possibility of total shutdown. OSHA authorities will not allow you to occupy the building if it isn’t inoperable. They also won’t let anyone occupy the building until their investigation is complete. It’s impossible to know how long this could take.
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It is better to prevent a collapse than to try to recover from one. This is why it’s so important to know the warning signs that your roof could be in danger. Here are some tips for roof management:
1. Weather Damage
It is important to know what factors can cause roof damage. Because of all the weight that snow accumulation places on the roof, it can be particularly dangerous. Roof collapse can also be caused by wind and water damage. These weather-related events should alert you to the need for roof inspections.
2. Sagging
It is rare for a roof to collapse at once. Most roofs collapse in sections. Sagging ceilings should be investigated immediately. Fast!
3. Roof Supports: Bends and Ripples
Structural stress is characterized by ripples and bends in roof supports. If you notice them, it is important to determine the source of structural stress.
4. Cracks in the Exterior Masonry
You’re likely familiar with the bowing, shifting and sagging that happens when a tower collapses. It’s the same for commercial buildings. Cracks in the mortar could indicate a problem with your roof. Only an immediate inspection can determine the truth.
5. Cracks in the Ceiling or Interior Walls
A building’s interior can also reveal structural problems. Cracks in the ceiling and interior walls are not random. There must be a reason for them to occur. These signs should be your first priority.
6. Leaks
Leakages are another sign to look out for in your roof management checklist. Leakage is a sign that water has penetrated your roof structure. This is not good. You must do more than clean up after a leak is discovered. It is important to determine the source of the leak as well as whether there was any structural damage.
7. Sprinkler heads that are not aligned
Sprinkler heads won’t shift if the ceiling moves. It’s important to determine why sprinkler heads suddenly move out of alignment.
8. Doors and Windows that won’t shut or are difficult to open
Structural shifting may be the culprit if a previously cooperating door or window suddenly becomes immobile. These things don’t happen by themselves. It is your responsibility to discover why.
9. Unusual sounds
Do not assume creaking or popping is due to the building’s aging and settling. These sounds could indicate a roof collapse imminently and should be investigated immediately.
10. A feeling of new movement
This is an example of change that is not beneficial. Instead, it is a sign that there is a problem. Any movement you notice, such as new drafts, uneven or spongy floors or tilting floors, should be investigated immediately.
People are often taken by surprise when roof collapses occur, but it really shouldn’t. While they can happen without warning, it is much more common for warnings not to be heard or ignored. Do not let this happen to you. You should immediately take action to address any problems in your building if you notice them. Your building will remain in top shape with proper roof management.