HOW DO I KNOW IF MY BUILDING NEEDS A NEW ROOF?
A professional Roof Assessment must be performed to determine your roof’s condition. Thorough inspections, including core sample tests and infrared scans should give the Roofing Contractor enough information to create a solid report. If you get more than one Contractor to look at the project, be sure to compare each Roof Assessment to make sure the findings are consistent and the Contractors’ scopes of work line up.
WHEN SHOULD I SCHEDULE A ROOF PROJECT?
The earlier the better! Beginning the process of scheduling roof work in the middle of the summer will delay the schedule, as most Roofing Contractors have already filled their calendars. If possible, begin scheduling estimates in the fall or winter so your project can begin in spring or summer.
Depending on the size of your project (and weather conditions in your area), late fall/early winter could be a good time to schedule, as many Commercial Roofing Contractors are finishing up their season and looking for a few projects to round out the year.
HOW MUCH WILL A NEW ROOF COST?
As you can imagine, every roof project is different: there is no “one size fits all” price. Various factors play a role in the price of a new roof: the size, condition of the existing roof, installation choice, roof penetrations, length of warranty, and more are all things that must be considered.
If you receive two estimates that range dramatically in price, be sure to compare the scopes of work. Moreover, have the Contractors defend their scope so you are as informed as possible when you make the final decision.
If you can’t afford a new roof at this time, ask your Roofing Contractor to help you create a budget for future project. We recommend making annual, affordable repairs and maintenance until your budget allows a larger fix.
HOW LONG WILL A COMMERCIAL ROOF LAST?
The lifespan of your roof is largely tied to (1) weather conditions and (2) maintenance. Annual maintenance can dramatically extend the life of your roof!
Another thing to consider is the roof TYPE:
- Spray Applied Roof System (Foam and Coating): 20 year (with a renewable warranty; longer if maintained!)
- Single Ply TPO: 15-20
- Single Ply EPDM: 20-25
- Metal: 30-45
- Built Up: 10-15
Elastomeric Silicone Coating applied over any of these systems offers a 10-20 year warranty o in addition to making the new system energy efficient and leak-free.
HOW DO I STAY WITHIN MY COMMERCIAL ROOF WARRANTY?
You don’t buy a new car expecting to never put oil in it. Same goes for your commercial roof: annual maintenance is required!
The following items must take place:
- Limit roof traffic if possible
- Keep a log of workers who access the roof
- Schedule inspections after major storms or periods of heavy wind
- Perform annual or biannual maintenance
These small tasks can save you thousands of dollars in costly (unwarranted) repairs or early roof replacement. We can not stress enough that the phrase, “out of sight, out of mind” does not apply if you want to maintain your warranty!
WHAT IS THE BEST COMMERCIAL ROOF?
There are many good options for flat/low-slope commercial roofs.
Spray Applied Systems (Spray Foam and Coating) are typically considered “top of the line.” They have the lowest life cycle cost of any other roof system; the renewability and energy efficiency makes it the longest lasting, most cost-effective option. Learn more about Spray Applied Roofing here (link to: What is a Spray-Tec Roof?)
HOW DO I FIX A ROOF LEAK?
Protect your valuables first! Go “overboard” when covering expensive or valuable items in your building: water movement is unpredictable and a small roof leak can escalate quickly. If the leak is visible from inside the building, mark the area to show a Roof Repair Technician. Pictures are also helpful!
It is not recommended you inspect the roof yourself as this can sometimes make the leak worse. Call your Roofing Contractor to schedule an emergency roof repair.