Best Practices for Maintaining Your Roofing Equipment

Jen Woslager • November 7, 2024

Learn how to keep your roofing equipment like roof cutters and membrane welders in top shape with our maintenance tips, enhancing efficiency and safety.


Proper maintenance of your roofing equipment is essential to extend its lifespan and ensure safety and efficiency on the job. In Billings, Montana, where weather conditions can be harsh, taking good care of your roofing machinery like roof cutters, deck scrapers, and membrane welders is even more crucial. Here’s a comprehensive maintenance guide to help you keep your equipment in top condition.

1. Routine Cleaning

Regular cleaning of your equipment is fundamental. Remove all debris, dust, and tar build-up from machines like membrane welders and roof cutters after each use. This prevents the accumulation of materials that can cause damage or affect performance.

2. Lubrication is Key

All moving parts should be well-lubricated to ensure smooth operation and to prevent wear and tear. Use the recommended type of lubricant for different parts, such as high-temperature grease for membrane welders and light machine oil for roof cutters.

3. Regular Inspections

Inspect your equipment regularly for any signs of wear or damage. Check for loose components, damaged parts, and signs of corrosion. Early detection of issues can help you address them before they lead to bigger problems or safety hazards.

4. Roof Cutter Maintenance

For roof cutters, ensure that the blades are sharp and in good condition. Dull blades not only make the job harder but also increase the risk of accidents. Replace or sharpen the blades as needed. Additionally, check the alignment and tension of the blades regularly.

5. Deck Scraper Care

Inspect deck scrapers for bent or broken blades and handle integrity. Replacing blades and repairing handles promptly can prevent inefficiencies and potential injuries. Also, ensure that the scraper’s angle and pressure settings are adjusted correctly for the type of roofing material.

6. Membrane/Roof Welder Care

Regularly check membrane welders for any mechanical issues or malfunctions. Ensure that all connections are secure, and the welding temperature and speed settings are correctly adjusted to avoid overheating, which can degrade the quality of the welded seams.

7. Documentation and Record Keeping

Keep detailed records of all maintenance activities, repairs, and part replacements. This documentation can help you track the maintenance schedule and ensure compliance with warranty requirements.

A logo for steve garlock equipment inc. roofing equipment specialists

8. Professional Servicing

Some aspects of roofing equipment maintenance might require professional servicing. Regular check-ups by a qualified technician at an authorized repair facility like Steve Garlock Equipment can ensure that more complex systems, like hydraulic and electrical systems in automated equipment, are functioning properly. It's advisable to schedule these services yearly to maintain optimal performance.


By following these best practices for maintaining your commercial roofing equipment, you can ensure that your machinery runs efficiently and safely, ultimately saving time and money. Regular maintenance not only extends the lifespan of your equipment but also ensures consistent performance, which is crucial for the success of your projects in Billings, Montana.


For more information on maintaining roofing equipment or to find quality roofing tools and machinery, contact Steve Garlock Equipment. We provide expert advice and top-of-the-line equipment to meet all your roofing needs.

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