WHY GREASE CONTAINMENT AND ROUTINE MAINTENCE IS NECESSARY FOR YOUR COMMERCIAL ROOF.

Scheduled routine maintenance by a trusted commercial roofer is one of the most important details property owners cannot overlook when protecting their roofing system investment. Preventative maintenance is also key to extending the lifespan of your roof and is necessary to keep your roof’s warranty valid.  Certain commercial roofs require extra attention and maintenance. Roofs above restaurants and commercial kitchens have a critical need for routine maintenance.  They also need detailed care and regular inspections.  These commercial roofs are at risk for grease contamination that escapes through exhaust fans and ductwork. Containing this grease will prevent serious damage, stave off costly roof repairs and extend the life-span of your roof.

In this blog you will find out how grease can wreak havoc on your commercial roof.  You will  also learn how commercial roofing contractors can help you preempt catastrophic roof damage with a maintenance plan, and a grease containment unit for your property.

WHAT ARE THE EFFECTS OF GREASE CONTAMINATION ON YOUR COMMERCIAL ROOF?

Built-up Roofs become soft, spongy and break down to a jelly-like consistency making them ineffective at doing their job. Rubber Roofing Systems (i.e. EPDM and TPO) roofs blister, swell and deteriorate when they are exposed to grease.  The seams lose the ability to bond to the adhesive which leads to major roof failure. Additionally, most manufacturer’s warranties do not cover grease or smoke damage. They are considered highly preventable roofing problems.

 

 

WHAT ARE THE SAFETY ISSUES WITH FAILING TO CONTAIN GREASE ON YOUR COMMERCIAL ROOF?

Failure to contain grease and oil poses the following safety hazards:

  1. Grease and oil on a commercial roof are a slip and fall hazard.
  2. Build-up of grease and oil on the roof can lead to insect and animal infestation.
  3. Grease and oil are a serious fire hazard.
  4. Grease and oil contamination violates building and fire codes in most states.
  5. Grease and oil contamination may constitute an EPA violation. The lack of containment may pollute ground water and violate sewer regulations.                                                                     *Check the codes in your local area for proper regulations.

WHAT CAN I DO TO CONTAIN THE GREASE ON MY ROOFING SYSTEM?

The most effective way to protect your roof is to prevent grease from reaching the roof’s surface in the first place.  Property owners can do this by installing a filter or containment system on the roof. Most states’ fire and EPA codes already require that any roof above a food service establishment have a properly functioning grease containment or filtration system. The code usually mandates that there be an individual unit located over each tenant that serves any food or beverages. There are several different types of grease containment units. It is important to have a trusted professional roofer inspect your property to ensure you have the correct system for the size and scope of your needs.

Some containment systems filter the grease while others catch it into containers. It is imperative that all units are rainproof so grease does not overflow onto the surface of the roof. Regardless of the type of system you choose to install on your commercial property, regular maintenance and inspections are the key to proper performance and filter function.  In March of 2019, CRE Insight Journal noted that a “properly maintained roof is critical for protecting your roof from hazards”.  The article stressed the importance of routine maintenance. https://creinsightjournal.com/are-you-covered-roof-maintenance-considerations/.

 

With timely filter changes and detailed follow up by a knowledgeable commercial roofer, you can rest easy knowing your grease containment system is keeping your roof grease free.  The experienced technicians in the Service Department at Innovative Roofing Group will come out to your property and assess your roof. They will ensure there are no damaged areas that need to be removed or repaired. They will make sure your roof’s membrane is grease-free and check the functionality of your containment unit.

Your roof is an expensive investment! Routine maintenance with the qualified team at Innovative Roofing Group definitely outweighs the cost of premature roof replacement or preventable repairs. Contact us today at (404) 351-8797 to schedule a grease containment assessment, routine maintenance or any of your commercial roofing needs.

 

Thanks for Reading!