Commercial roofing systems are designed to withstand common adverse conditions. However, they are not invincible and will eventually suffer from wear and tear. Fortunately, there are effective ways to mitigate this.
Depending on the roofing problem you’re facing, there are four different methods that can help. Today, your local roofers will delve into these different strategies and list pointers to keep in mind when dealing with roof dilemmas.
- Repair. Fixes are temporary solutions, yet membranes in good condition can typically be easily repaired assuming the roof has a high degree of insulation.
A maintenance coating can’t solve the problem if the deterioration is severe. Replacing deteriorated base flashings can eliminate specific sources of water ingress, but comprehensive replacement of components is rarely cost-effective. Interfaces between new repair elements and old damaged roof skins are also challenging to perform with a consistent level of quality. If the source of leaks is identified incorrectly, the repair won’t be effective.
- Re-cover. If repair isn’t a viable option, your roofing contractor may suggest re-covering. This option makes sense if your roof has good insulation. It also allows homeowners and business owners to save on product and labor costs, expensive tear-offs and reduce materials sent to landfills. With re-covering, you also have the opportunity to boost your roofing system’s thermal efficiency.
- Replacement. Although it can be expensive, roof replacement is often the best, most cost-effective solution. Replacing your roof is the way to go if the roof has been severely damaged and/or if it’s older than 20 years. Signs that it’s time to replace the roof include missing shingles, leaks and organic growth. Here are situations you can look out for too:
- The building code mandates tear-off.
- There is ample moisture below the membrane.
- There is significant deterioration to the underlying structural deck.
- The existing roof system attachment cannot provide the wind-up-lift resistance or fire protection required for the new roof assembly.
- Your existing roofing system has deteriorated and is no longer serviceable.
- Coating. For a commercial building, coating your system can be a wise decision. This is cost-effective and environmentally friendly because a roof restoration system does not require the existing roof to be torn off. Like a re-cover, it eliminates the contribution of landfill waste and costs you less, as you do not need to pay landfill fees. It can also buy your roof another 10 years of life and make it more reflective and water-resistant.
A reflective coating is an excellent option to consider if you’re aiming for energy savings. This type of roof coating reflects heat and UV rays away from the roof. It can protect the roof from UV damage and help cool your building.
The Weak Points of Your Roof
Here are some of the vulnerable areas in your areas that you should prioritize when it comes to roof maintenance:
- Attic space. Checking whether there is storm damage in this area is vital. Impaired wood, water stains and mold are significant indicators that water has penetrated inside the attic.
- Chimneys. Any penetrations in the roofing material are vulnerable to roof leaks. Check around the edges for roof leaks. Windows and skylights may begin to exhibit condensation in the panes, indicating that water is intruding.
- Fascia. One of the weaker parts of your roofing, the fascia needs to be regularly taken care of if you want your gutter system to stay in place. Should you see any water damage, you need to call a professional to help right away.
- Flashing. Flashings are essential for sealing roof edges, perimeters, penetrations, drains and any other area where the roof is interrupted or terminated. They are designed to keep water away from the most sensitive parts of your roof, making them more vulnerable and exposed to natural elements. If you see worn out and deteriorating flashing, have your roofing contractor replace it promptly to keep your roof intact and water-resistant.
- Roof valley. This is where two downward-sloping roof planes meet. Water runoff is channeled through this area before flowing through the gutters and away from your property. Flashing should be installed over the valley, suggesting the material must be tightly adhered to prevent water from seeping into the roof’s inner layers.
Pointers to Remember
The Extent of Roofing Damage. Repair is cheaper than replacement because you will not need to pay your roofer to remove the existing roof. However, if they find that the damage to your roof is too extensive, they may recommend that you opt for a complete tear-off and replacement job. Determine whether which option is ideal by scheduling an inspection. Your roofer will then check if excess moisture is present below the membrane. If more than 25 percent of your commercial roof is damaged, a complete replacement will likely be recommended.
Roofing Budget. If you are working with a smaller budget and your roof has only sustained minor damage, then repairs are your best bet as long as the membrane and other critical internal components are in relatively good condition. However, if the membrane has reached or is nearing the end of its serviceable life, re-roofing is an excellent alternative to a full-on replacement.
Contact Us!
Lask Exterior Solutions, LLC has years of roofing experience in Rockford, Northern Illinois and Southern Wisconsin and is one of the area’s most dependable roofing and gutter protection services providers. Our current qualifications, on-time roofers and high-quality workmanship distinguish us from other roofing businesses.
If you would like to schedule a free consultation, please complete our handy online request form or contact us today for a free estimate at (815) 788-6699. We are always delighted to welcome a new customer. We serve residents of Rockford, IL, and the surrounding areas.