CEAC-2022-09-September
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Dirt and deciduous matter from trees, if not cleared from gutters and downspouts, can lead to ponding water on roofs, which can cause leakage into<br />
tenant spaces, as well as extensive roof damage.<br />
plumbing and irrigation connections to lighting, HVAC<br />
system elements, exhaust vents, air intakes, joints around<br />
windows and doors, and fire alarms, to name a fe .<br />
There are also unplanned holes caused by aging brick joints<br />
that need re-pointing, vanishing sealants, damage from acid<br />
rain and settling cracks. All wall penetrations provide easy<br />
access for water, bugs, field mice, birds or other unwanted<br />
pests to enter a building and cause damage.<br />
Checking for changes in a building since last year is also<br />
recommended. Do you have abandoned pipe penetrations<br />
from a tenant upgrade? A new tenant demo? Or maybe just<br />
a deteriorated building joint which can make the building<br />
joint vulnerable to the elements and unwanted pests?<br />
during this time of the year.<br />
Decaying leaves, pine needles and dirt run-off can all contribute<br />
to ponding water and clogged gutters and downspouts,<br />
which is why it is essential that all roof drains remain clear of<br />
obstructions. In addition to the risk of water pouring into the<br />
tenant spaces should a breach in the roof occur, the freezing<br />
and thawing of ponding water during the fall and winter<br />
months can cause extensive roof damage.<br />
Make sure that all organic debris is completely removed from<br />
gutters, downspouts and drains before the winter arrives.<br />
If a building is seriously damaged, specialists may be needed<br />
to bring a wall system back up to its expected performance<br />
level. Regular inspections by the property manager or a<br />
trained professional will help identify these potential problems<br />
early and save the owner money.<br />
Protecting the Roof<br />
The fall often brings falling leaves, pine needles and organic<br />
growth on building roof tops. A commitment to good roof<br />
maintenance practices can help facility managers avoid overflowing<br />
gutters, clogged downspouts and excessive ponding<br />
water which can lead to costly roof, facade and foundation<br />
damage. A weekly routine roof inspection is recommended<br />
Volume 87 · Number 9 | 37<br />
<strong>09</strong>22 issue.indd 37 8/22/22 3:27 PM
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