The Top 5 Secrets to a Long-Lasting Roof (That Your Building Will Thank You For)

Oct 08, 2025

Few people wake up excited about roof maintenance. But if
you own or manage a commercial building, you know how critical it is—the roof
is the unsung hero we would all like to take for granted, keeping water, pests,
and chaos at bay. As soon as you get signs that it is not doing its job, you
are likely already too overdue on maintenance—and that can mean high-ticket
repairs for building owners and property managers. Want your make sure your roof
can endure longer than your favorite pair of sneakers while also not incurring
more risks and costs?

With colder fall temperatures and winter approaching, now is
the perfect time to check on and dial in your roof’s health.

Here are the top five things you need to know—straight from
the experts who spend their days chasing leaks, so you don’t have to.

1/ It’s what’s underneath that counts: Start with the right assembly. Protection runs deep—the quality of what’s inside matters just as much as the outside. For example, is your membrane thick enough for your climate? Do you have a cover board to fend off hail and foot traffic? How about insulation and air sealing to keep condensation (and bugs!) out? Is your roof designed to withstand your area’s hazards, such as wind or fire? A well-built assembly means fewer surprises down the road.

2/ Be warranty-wise: Don’t let it lapse! If your roof is under warranty, get closely acquainted and cherish it. Make sure it’s transferred properly when you buy a building or call the manufacturer to see how you can get covered. There may be a processing fee and an inspection, but it’s a very small investment in order to avoid issues with way bigger price tags, not to mention, for peace of mind. Remember: a valid warranty often requires regular inspections and repairs by certified pros.

3/ Dive deep every year: Conduct annual inspections. These inspections are a must for newer roofs—though as your roof ages, consider bi-annual checkups. These aren’t just box-ticking exercises—inspectors look for seam issues, punctures, excessive wear, and dreaded ponding (standing water) that can all result in damaging leaks. In climates with wild weather swings, which can be all over the country now, schedule checks before winter and after spring storms. And always, always keep those drains clear!

4/ Leverage your tech: Use infrared and moisture scans. Want to really know what’s going on up there? Bring in a consultant for a drone-based infrared scan or non-intrusive moisture mapping, such as a Tramex Roof and Wall scanner. These tools help spot hidden moisture and heat loss, mapping out problem areas before they become disasters. Important to remember: always confirm findings with a core sample—science meets common sense.

5/ Turn back time, but in advance: Protect high-traffic zones and equipment. Are mechanical units sitting directly on your roof membrane? Bad idea. Vibration wears down the surface fast. Use proper isolation pads and install walk paths to protect high-traffic areas. Not only does this make maintenance safer, but it also keeps your membrane looking and functioning younger.

Bonus: Focus on the usual suspects. When inspecting, always pay close attention, first and foremost, to the most foundational areas—where vertical
surfaces meet horizontals as well as around penetrations, seams, and
terminations. These are the most common culprits for leaks and should always be
on your radar.

Let’s be real: most of us only think about our roofs when they start leaking. But
understanding what’s above your head is the first step to avoiding unpleasant
surprises—and setting realistic expectations for how your roof should perform.
If you haven’t given your roof much thought, now is the time to get acquainted
with its quirks and condition. This is where we are engaged to evaluate, as we help clients get the lay of the land (or, in this case, the shingles): setting a
baseline, decoding warranty fine print, conducting thorough roof reviews, and
using everything from drones to moisture mapping to pinpoint trouble spots.
Once you know what you’re working with, you can craft a smart plan to keep your
roof in top shape for years to come. Because a little knowledge now can save
you a lot of headaches later.

A roof that endures is not just good luck—it’s the result of
smart design, proactive care and maintenance, and working with the right
resources to continually assess the condition. Treat your roof right, and it’ll
return the favor by keeping everything dry and safe while helping you avoid
costly and risky outcomes. Especially with fall here and winter upon us—give
your roof the love it deserves!

If you need help with or have questions about keeping your roof properly and wisely maintained, reach out and our building enclosure experts will ensure your investment is protected from the very top.