Managing rooftop grease containment is crucial for certain facilities, especially those with high-grease producing menus. National brands like Checkers, Sonic, Chili's, LongHorn Steakhouse, and McDonald’s prioritize grease containment due to their high operational volume and menu compositions. If your restaurant serves a similar menu heavy in beef and fried foods, implementing a grease containment system is essential.
Why Grease Containment Matters
Unchecked grease on your rooftop can lead to significant issues, including:
Roof Damage and Repair Costs. Grease is the number one threat to roof membranes. It will leak across your roof, following the pitch into the scuppers, causing irreversible damage along this path. If not cleaned immediately, it will become embedded into the membrane and must be cut out. If cleaned regularly, it will dry out the roof membrane and age the roof causing severe fracturing. A temporary repair to grease damage is short lived as patches and sealant will not effectively hold and the proper repair, cutting out the membrane, will range from $4,000 to $25,000.
Increased Liability Risks. Slip-and-fall incidents can occur when grease gets tracked onto ladder rungs or rooftop surfaces. This creates hazards for contractors and employees. The outdated practice of manually removing grease with buckets is dangerous and unnecessary.
Fire Hazards. Grease is highly flammable and poses a serious risk if left uncontrolled.
Municipal Violations. Poorly contained grease that overflows and enters storm drains violates municipal codes, leading to fines and legal penalties.
Pest Infestations. Grease attracts pests such as birds, rodents, and insects. These animals often become trapped in grease, creating sanitation and safety concerns.
Is Grease Containment Right for You?
If your restaurant produces high levels of grease, a containment system is not just an option—it’s a necessity. Assessing your rooftop grease output and implementing the proper system can help prevent costly repairs, reduce liability risks, and ensure compliance with local regulations. Services like GreaseCare provide fixed-price programs that ensure timely grease removal, helping you avoid unexpected expenses and maintain compliance with safety regulations.
If you need an assessment of your rooftop grease situation, contact us online or call (833) 446-8849 to schedule a consultation.
Written by
John Hayner
Client Advisor
john.hayner@roofingsource.com
