5 Common Signs Your Commercial Roof Needs a Repair
Most commercial roofing structures will last from fifteen to thirty years based on the quality and type of roofing installation. The most common types of commercial roofs include flat roofing, thermoplastic polyolefin, ethylene propylene diene monomer EPDM, polyvinyl chloride PVC, and modified bitumen Mod-Bit. So, depending on the roof that you want, you’re likely to come across one of these. Unfortunately, regardless of the roofing type, most commercial owners struggle to predict the right time to repair their roofs. So, whether you turn your gaze towards heaven or climb up your roof and check below, here are five common signs that your roof needs a repair; Holes, open seams or general openings in the roof are a sign that the roof needs to be repaired. Even if the roof isn’t actively leaking, it will likely leak soon. And, any opening where water can get into the roof system will cause your insulation and underlying roof components to get wet, causing larger problems down the road. If the insulation is buckled / curling, that is a sign that moisture is getting into the roof and/or your fasteners are not holding down the insulation properly. Since the entire roof system is one assembly, damaged insulation will eventually mean a damaged roof system. If you notice your edge metal on the outside is loose or missing, that is […]
When Is the Best Time of Year to Replace a Commercial Roof?
If your commercial roof is constantly leaking, whether due to bad weather, snow build-up or wear and tear, you probably need a roof replacement. Also, if you’re spending too much time and money on maintenance and repairs, it’s probable that your commercial roof is dilapidated and needs replacement. Most commercial roofing materials last between 15 to 30 years. So, if you’re getting closer to this time, it’s time to start planning when to replace your commercial roof. Although most commercial operators understand the seriousness of roof replacement, most don’t know the best time to replace a commercial roof. Below we will try and answer this question and explore the best time to replace your commercial roof. The Best Time to Replace Your Commercial Roof In New England, the simple answer to this question is between March to December. As a general rule of thumb, replacement during January and February is not ideal, unless we have a mild winter. Most roofing products can be installed during this time, with technology like heat boxes and heat blankets. However, it is always easier to install a roof when nature is on your side. The biggest downside of a winter installation is the temperature of the roofing materials during the installation. During the colder months, the membrane rolls themselves are cold, making them very tight. Once the warmer weather […]
4 of the Most Common Commercial Flat Roof Repairs to Expect
Commercial flat roofs are industrial structures that need careful installation and maintenance. When excellently done and if properly maintained, commercial flat roofers will tell you that a quality roofing installation will last upward of twenty five years. Unfortunately, commercial flat roofs may not attain the twenty five year lifespan because of weather and calamities. Snow overload, excessive heat, humidity build-up, and condensation are all factors that may affect commercial flat roofs. Humidity build-up, extreme heat, and snow build-up on commercial flat roofs may cause cracks, voids, or holes. Below we take a look at the most common commercial flat roof repairs: Holes are common in commercial roofing. Dropped tools, knives, and sharp objects may cause mechanical damage, leading to holes. The presence of holes in commercial roofs implies the leakage of rainwater, snowwater as well as the direct penetration of sunlight. So, patching holes caused by mechanical damage and sometimes aging is one of the most common flat roof repairs – especially for commercial roofs – whether EPDM, TPO, PVC, or asphalt. Flashing repairs are another category of repair for commercial flat roofs. Flashing details are often the most difficult part of a flat roof installation, which makes them a likely source for roof leaks. Checking to see how walls, rooftop units, roof drains, etc. are installed is a good start to finding your leak […]
3 Mistakes to Avoid When Considering a New Commercial Roof Design
We’re all bound to make mistakes – whether making a simple arts and crafts project or repairing something complex like a car engine. However, some mistakes can be costly, especially considering the scope of work, cost, and direct implications on people and material. For instance, many people are prone to making mistakes when installing or repairing commercial roofs. You may fail to work with industrial roofing experts or choose low-quality materials. Worse still, a lack of consultancy and expertise may lead to poor roofing designs, costing you money and time. But, when working with experts, you can access best-of-breed products for your commercial roof design and installation at a fraction of the cost. Common mistakes to avoid when considering commercial roof design. The first and foremost consideration is dealing with water. As a general rule, most manufacturers want 80% of water off the roof within 48 hours of a rain event. To make this happen, there are a few solutions: The wind load is one of the most critical roof design considerations. All commercial roofs must withstand winds or uplifts to a certain degree. The degree to which your roof must stand up to wind is largely based on how tall your building is, how close to the water it is, how many obstructions are in the way, and so on. Based on these conditions, […]
3 Preventive Care Steps to Take in Protecting Your Flat Roof
Flat roofs are very common on commercial and industrial roof systems due to their ability to maximize space inside a building. Despite their versatility and functionality, flat roofs are potential victims of bad weather, especially during the winter. A minor defect may not be problematic in good weather, but it could be catastrophic in bad weather. In many cases, flat roofs are out of sight, out of mind. As long as it doesn’t leak, many building owners and facilities managers won’t spend time or money on their flat roof. This allows minor problems, like clogged drains, loose rooftop panels and small surface scratches, to turn into major problems. As the old saying goes, “an ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure”. In the case of industrial flat roofing, this is especially true, as a small amount of money spent on maintenance can prevent a far larger repair cost, restoration cost, or even replacement cost. We advise that you observe the following preventive steps in protecting your flat roof: 1. Complete a general roof inspection. The first step of any maintenance program is completing a general walk around of the roof. Check for roof damage, such as slits, slices and openings. Look for loose rooftop doors / hatches and other areas that may create damage down the road. If something looks problematic, take care […]
How to Prepare for a Factory or Production Facility Roofing Project
A factory roofing project is a heavy investment that requires careful planning and thorough preparations. An industrial roofing company understands that installing, repairing, or maintaining a factory’s roofing is time-consuming, expensive, and potentially detrimental to production systems. How to prepare yourself for a factory roofing project: 1. Prepare for noise Industrial roofing companies strive to keep the noise as low as possible during roof installation and maintenance work. However, roofing contractors cannot avoid the noise during production days, especially if the project involves a roof tear off. It’s advisable to send out memos to different departments and request employees to prepare themselves for upcoming roofing projects. Oftentimes, if people are aware of the disruption and the rough duration of the project, its makes the disruptions easier to get thorough. Especially if they know there won’t be roof leaks at the end of the project! 2. Reputable contractor A reputable industrial roofing company strives to deliver quality and trouble-free roofing work. They will collaborate from inception to completion and guide you through all the steps of a commercial roofing project. Professional contractors have the potential to deliver beyond expectations. Leveraging professional contractors gives you access to warranties, adding an extra layer of protection to your commercial roofing. 3. Interior Protection Interior protection is very important, especially if the structural decking is exposed. If the project involves […]
What a Roof Evaluation Can Tell You About the Condition of Your Roof
Here’s what a roof evaluation can tell you about the condition of your commercial flat roof: roof damage, roof lifespan, and drainage condition.
How PVC Has Changed Over Time
You’re bound to bump into polyvinyl chloride PVC, whether you’re seated at home, working in the office, driving down the road, or relaxing on the field. Encountering something made-up of polyvinyl chloride is not unusual because plastic products are a “normal” part of our lives. As seasoned providers of polyvinyl chloride roofing materials, we know the history and trajectory of PVC compounds. In this article, we highlight fundamental changes in PVC history: 1. Large Scale Production – 1920s Friedrich Heinrich patented PVC in the early 1900s, although research, experiments, and discoveries around PVC and PVC compounds began centuries before Heinrich. By the mid-1920s, American inventor Waldo Semon improvised PVC compounds for commercial utility products. He molded heels, water tanks, and golf balls purely from PVC compounds. 2. PVC Incorporated into Textile – 1930s PVC found its way into many materials once manufacturers and inventors uncovered its potent cocktail. PVC entry into textile was first experimented with using products such as raincoats and shower curtains. These initial experiments equipped people for domestic maintenance, climatic patterns, and weather changes. 3. Vinyl Records – Mid-20th Century Vinyl records ushered in a period of musical creativity. In the mid-20th century, vinyl products proved flexible, desirable, and durable for many applications. This allowed music producers to play music using vinyl-made discs. Even today, there’s a collection of vinyl records to preserve this […]
Modified Bitumen (Mod-Bit) Roofing, Explained
Modified Bitumen (MB) roofing is an asphalt-based roofing system closely related to the Built-Up Roofing (BUR) design. This roofing material is suitable for buildings with low-scope or flat roofing. MB roofing originated in Europe in the mid-1960s and was adopted widely as a commercial roofing material across the US. Engineered MB roofing material is popular because it performs optimally in harsh conditions, including cold weather. Mod-bit roofing consolidates into typically three to five layers of roofing components, making it one of the most trusted and durable flat roofing systems. The elements making up the modified bitumen roofing system include: What makes mod-bit roofing a suitable roofing option for flat or low-scope roofs? Benefits of Modified Bitumen (Mod-Bit) Roofing MB roofing combines fiberglass and polyester reinforcement to provide stronger tear resistance. The tear-resistance feature makes modified bitumen materials ideal for low-slope roofs. Contact Chaffee Roofing for modified bitumen and other superior roofing solutions.
What You Need to Know About Flat Roof Designs
Flat roofs are among the most common and versatile types of roofs globally. While they are not the most glamorous and enchanting option, they have unique advantages. It’s important to note that flat roofs require special attention, care, and handling. Flat roofs differ from their contemporary counterparts in more than outward appearance. Costs, materials, and versatility benefits are distinct capabilities of flat roofs. So, if you’re a commercial building owner or a private real estate developer, you will most likely have to deal with flat roofs firsthand.Here’s what you need to know about flat roof designs: 1. Cost The cost of a flat roof system can vary dramatically. If you need to complete a full tear off, you also need to install code-compliant insulation, which can add dramatically to the cost. There are also big cost differences between the products available (TPO, EPDM, PVC) and how they are installed (Fastened, adhered, etc). Make sure you do your homework and know what you are getting before approving a proposal. 2. Maintenance On a flat roof system, maintenance is very important. Clogged roof drains and minor defects can create big problems down the road. It is very important to walk your roof at least once a year, clearing vegetation and checking for defects. An annual maintenance program can go a long way in making sure your roof […]