Commercial Roof Damage: 4 Common Myths
Summit Commercial Roofing
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Learn why you should address hail damage sooner rather than later and why a professional roofing inspection is needed.
Learn why you should address hail damage sooner rather than later and why a professional roofing inspection is needed.
Small business owners everywhere dread the stormy spring and summer months because it means potential hail damage, repairs, and unwanted downtime.
The good news is that when caught early, hail damage can be fixed quickly and easily, and in many cases, insurance will cover the cost of the repairs. There are no benefits to ignoring the problem; it only increases the risk of your system experiencing water damage and mold growth.
Despite the benefits of addressing roofing issues early on, there are still property owners that choose to put it off. In this article, we’ll cover what some of these reasons are and why they’re not legitimate.
Truth: If you experience even a mild hail storm, scheduling a commercial roofing inspection as soon as possible is smart. Time is crucial, so the sooner you schedule it, the better. Hail damage inspection requires specialized knowledge. It’s not uncommon for an insurance roofing inspector to disregard seemingly minor damage that can worsen exponentially with time.
Truth: While roofing systems are designed for durability and longevity, especially for the environment they’re installed in, they’re not invincible. Always schedule a roofing inspection following a significant weather event. Another common misconception we see, too, is property owners assuming they can get money from their warranty coverage without filing an insurance claim. Some roofing material manufacturers specifically EXCLUDE hail damage, so always read the fine print in your warranties.
Truth: An insurer may increase rates across the board after a natural disaster. If you do not file a claim, and your rates still rise, which they likely will, you’ll simply be paying for the restoration of other roofs instead of your own. Meanwhile, the damage will continue to expand with time.
Truth: Flat roofing systems are effective and deliver extended service lives. However, their components must be properly installed and maintained, and particular skill sets are needed to ensure lasting professional results. We do not recommended self-repairing your commercial flat roofs or hiring an unlicensed individual to perform the repairs. It’s much simpler and far safer to contact your insurance company, an expert roofing contractor, and file a claim.
After you experience a storm, call your insurance company and then a third-party roofing company. Inspectors from insurance companies are motivated to represent their companies, not you. Having a roofing professional present means that issues that aren’t as noticeable are pointed out. Read this article to learn more about what’s involved during a post-storm inspection.
Roofing systems are designed and installed to accommodate specific functions needed to maintain the integrity of the structures they cap, but even the best don’t last forever. To help to keep yours in good condition.
Summit Commercial Roofing is a family-owned and -operated company specializing in restoring, maintaining, and replacing commercial flat roofs. We’ve served small business owners throughout Southeast Michigan for over 50 years. You can count on us for high-quality service, durable materials, affordable pricing, and exceptional customer support.
If you think you have hail damage or other damage to your flat roofing system, don’t hesitate to contact us today to schedule a free inspection.
Is your property in need of roofing service? Contact Summit Commercial Roofing today at 734-422-8280 or fill out our online form for more information and to schedule a free, no-hassle roof inspection and service estimate. As Southeast Michigan's leader in commercial roofing services, we're standing by to deliver fast, reliable and high-quality roofing service.