Impact of foot traffic on the integrity of flat commercial roofs

Some types of Vancouver commercial roof installations, like green roofs and BUR (tar & gravel) roofs, are impervious to foot traffic damage. Others, like single-ply EPDM*, are easily susceptible to punctures, tears and abrasions. Damage like this leads to early deterioration of roof integrity through thinning and leaking.

Impact of foot traffic on flat commercial roof integrity

• Punctures
• Tears
• Abrasion
• Early deterioration
• Leaks

Foot traffic is defined as anyone walking on the roof. This could be residents or workers getting some fresh air for instance, or, it could be maintenance workers installing new equipment or making repairs. Anyone who requires access to the roof and will be walking on it, risks damaging it.

Types of damage that impact the integrity of flat commercial roofs come from dropped tools, turning without lifting the foot, broken equipment hitting the roof and fallen tree branches. Punctures and tears allow water ingress. Which can quickly compromise the interior of the building, causing water damage, rot, and mould. Plus, it can dangerously weaken the structure of the building. Expect repair costs to rise exponentially the longer it goes on.

However, there are some important steps you can take to minimise the potential for damage caused by foot traffic, and prolong the life of your new commercial roof.  

Steps to mitigate the impact of foot traffic

• Minimise walking on the roof 
• Allow only authorised personnel
• Create walkways and insist on use

Start by restricting access to those who absolutely need to be on the roof, ie: HVAC technicians, solar panel installers, electricians, roofers and other professionals. Build walkways for workers to use to access equipment. Insist these, or special food pads that minimise the impact of foot traffic, be used, when on the roof.

*EPDM, while sensitive to the impact of foot traffic, is an incredibly long-lasting, budget-friendly, and easy-to-repair roof with superior waterproofing capabilities. Just be sure to hire professional roof contractors for any new Vancouver commercial roof installation, maintenance and/or repair.

Laurentian Roofing offers high-quality, cost-minded installations and repairs for commercial roofs in Vancouver. Call 604-345-7663 for more information and a free estimate.