Category Archives: Commercial Roofing

Jun '21

8 Most Common Silicone Roof Coating Problems

Although silicone roof coatings are a smart choice for many reasons, silicone roofing problems are quite common.

On the bright side, silicone coatings possess very high solids content, so they don’t necessarily have to be applied in multiple layers to provide adequate protection.

This saves time and money, and even more so when they do not require a primer (which is often true).

Many commercial buildings have silicone coatings protecting their roofs for these and other reasons. However, silicone roof coatings are not perfect—no type of roof coating is. They have inherent flaws.

As a contractor, property manager, or business owner, you should be aware of how silicone roof coatings can fail and thoroughly understand their most common problems.

Common Silicone Roofing Problems

Incompatibility With Other Materials
Adverse to Foot Traffic
Compromised Reflectivity
Limited to Flat Roofs
Shorter Warranties
Vulnerability to tearing
More Expensive
Difficult installation

Below, Roofer’s Guild outlines eight silicone roofing problems to consider:

1) Not All Roof Materials Adhere to Silicone

When it comes to selecting the best roof coating, you must consider your circumstances. Right off the bat, this could be a big problem. Not all existing roof materials will adhere to silicone.

A lack of adhesion means you must remove the entire surface or opt for materials that will stick to silicone. Investing in adhesive materials can drive up your installation costs.

2) Not The Best for Heavy Foot Traffic

An ideal candidate for silicone roof coating is a roof that will not see much foot traffic. There are a couple of problems that can arise if a silicone roof coating is applied to a roof that gets a lot of foot traffic:

Silicone becomes more slippery than other roof coatings when it gets wet, presenting a safety hazard for people on your roof.
Frequent foot traffic can damage silicone, reducing its projected lifespan.

Foot traffic may not be an issue if your building’s roof rarely receives visitors. However, if you frequently need roof-top HVAC maintenance, have people working on skylights, or your roof requires a lot of care, this may be a problem.

3) Compromised Reflectivity

One of the main advantages of installing a silicone roof coating is that it can reflect a lot of UV light, saving you money on cooling costs.

However, this is not an infallible advantage. Silicone roof coatings attract dirt and dust more than other materials. Dirt and other build-ups will compromise its reflectivity and negate energy savings.

While investing in regular roof cleanings can negate many of these concerns, doing so adds more maintenance to your property.

4) Limited to Flat Roofs

A silicone roof coating will not work very well on pitched roofs. Very few homeowners are clamoring to install a silicone roof coating on their houses, but not all commercial roofs are flat.

Silicone will not hold up or perform as well as other roof coating systems if you have a pitched commercial roof.

5) Shorter Warranties

While some other types of roof coatings typically come with warranties that last up to 25 years, the warranty you are likely to get from a silicone roof coating is significantly shorter.

You can usually expect a warranty period of only ten years. While some manufacturers/contractors may offer you 15-year warranties for silicone roof coatings, you can also expect to pay more for them.

6) Prone to Tearing

Silicone roof coatings are inherently prone to tearing. They are not as durable as some other roof coatings and should not be installed in areas where hail, foot traffic, and abrasion are common.

Hail and debris whipped up by the wind could tear the coating and expose the substrate. When a tear occurs, the entire coating can become compromised.

Tears can occur in many ways, including hailstones, heavy tools hitting the surface, pest infestations, falling debris from trees, and more.

7) More Expensive

One of the most unattractive silicone roof coating problems is that it is typically more expensive to install than other materials.

For example, installing a silicone roof coating costs around $2 to $3.50 per square foot. On the other hand, the average price to install an acrylic roof coating is only about fifty cents to a dollar per square foot.

Silicone roof coatings are also more expensive than other coating options because they require more cleaning and are more prone to tears.

When it comes time to replace your silicone roof coating, you are likely to pay more because, depending on the replacement materials, the entire surface may have to be removed.

8) Difficult to Install

Many roofers dislike working with silicone because it is messy and difficult to apply correctly. As a result, most contractors offering silicone coating installation have undergone special training, which will again drive up the installation cost.

On the other hand, an inexperienced contractor installing a silicone roof coating could cause more problems. That’s because improperly installed silicone roof coatings can damage your roof.

Making Sense of Silicone Roofing Problems

Vetting the problems of any roofing material will yield concerns. The goal is not to dissuade you from choosing silicone as your next roofing material but to equip you with the knowledge to make a more informed decision.

While we’ve clearly outlined potential problems with this popular material, it’s worth noting that its popularity is based on many positive attributes.

Ultimately, your choice of silicone roofing will likely be positive for your property.

Nevertheless, gaining awareness of silicone roofing problems is essential before investing time and money.

Jun '21

Roofing Substrates: The Definitive Guide (Definition + Tips)

You may have heard the term “roofing substrates” in passing. But do you know what it means? It’s not all that complicated.

In the following post, Roofer’s Guild will discuss different roof substrates and explain their pros and cons.

Key Takeaway

A roof substrate provides a frame for securing a weatherproofing roof layer for protection from the elements.

What is a Roofing Substrate?

A roofing substrate is any structure onto which you can install a roof coating or roofing system. It’s sort of like the support system for the roofing that you can’t see with the naked eye.

There are many different types of roofing substrates available, depending on what kind of building you have and what type of roofing system you want to be installed on top of it. As such, you may have many questions regarding which type of roofing substrates would be best for you.

Types of Roofing Substrates

To understand roofing substrates, you have to start with the basics. A roof isn’t just the planks of wood on top of your house or commercial building. It is made up of many layers.

Many people don’t realize that their shingles aren’t the core of their roofs. Commercial coatings and shingles are just means of waterproofing or insulating a building.

Roofers must install waterproofing layers and membranes on top of something (to be secured) because the surface they are attached to is the roofing substrate, sometimes called rigid sarking, roof decking, or underlayment. You should never see your roofing substrate if everything is as it should be.

Roofing substrates need to be moisture-resistant (although not fully waterproof), so they are typically made from timber boards, OSB, or plywood.

While roofing substrates are not necessarily needed to provide waterproofing protection to the building, certain types can offer this and other types of security – such as seismic uplift protection.

The primary role of a roofing substrate is to provide a solid frame onto which you can secure the weatherproofing layer of the roof.

There are lots of options when it comes to roofing substrates, though. Depending on where you live, you may be limited to certain types based on local building codes. Here is a list of the most common types of roofing substrates.

Plywood

Plywood is a prevalent material used to build roofing substrates. The benefits of plywood roofing substrate are that it is an affordable material and relatively easy to install.

However, while most contractors worth their salt will easily handle plywood substrate installation, they still must exercise caution.

That’s because the downside to plywood substrates is that a 1/8″ gap needs to be allowed, or else the panels will buckle. There are also some inherent weaknesses with plywood. Over time, they can become delaminated, and the boards will begin to pull apart.

SPF Substrates

SPF stands for Spray-In-Place Foam. It hasn’t been used for very long as a roofing substrate, but it works well with Conklin roofing systems.

One of the main benefits of this type of roofing substrate is that roofers can use it to impart a pitch to a flat roof. It also works well as a roof insulator.

The downside of this type of roofing substrate is that it needs to be reinforced to avoid degradation from ultraviolet light. Another downside is that it depends on the quality of foam installation laid down beforehand.

Solid Timber Boards

Solid timber boards are usually made from a naturally durable and water-resistant species of wood. They can also be treated with a preservative.

The good thing about stable timber boarding is that it provides remarkable resistance against warping if done correctly. Warping and shrinkage usually occur when plain-edged panels are used instead of jointed panels.

Solid timber boards are prone to shrinking and warping when plain-edged panels are used. While plain-edge panels are cheaper, jointed panels will provide more protection in the long run.

Concrete

Concrete can also be used for roofing substrates. They are most commonly used for multi-story buildings. By far, the best thing about concrete for roofing substrates is that they provide outstanding structural integrity. Also, as mentioned earlier, they are ideal for multi-floor buildings.

One of the downsides of using concrete for your roofing substrate is that you are limited in what type of roof coatings you can use. Generally, you should only cover concrete substrates with non-bonded or partially bonded coating systems.

Metal

There are several metal roofing substrate materials on the market. However, the most common and practical are aluminum and galvanized steel. Metal roofing substrates are commonly used in commercial construction to provide strength and durability for more significant buildings.

Aluminum is especially beneficial to use as a substrate in areas with high humidity due to its inherent moisture resistance. Aluminum is also lightweight (it doesn’t stress the building structure) and strong (it provides a solid base for most types of roof coatings).

The downside to metal roofing substrates is that they do not provide a continuous surface. As a result, they typically have to be used to supplement timber substrates.

Get Help With Roofing Substrates

Whether you are installing a new roofing substrate or needing repairs on your existing one, you must work with a professional.

Your building – whether it be your home or your business – is too important to leave in the hands of amateurs. In addition, a compromised roofing substrate can damage the structural integrity of the entire building.

That’s why we encourage you to work with a professional roofing company. At Roofer’s Guild, we provide marketing services for professional roofing contractors from around the country.

You can find a local contractor on Google search who will install or repair your roofing substrate professionally – no matter what type you need/have. So start searching now.

Oct '20

The Pros & Cons of Rubber Roofing

Rubber roofing, sometimes referred to as EPDM or TPO roofing, is a popular choice for commercial roof installation. It holds several benefits for more extensive facilities that need a cost-effective roofing system that will also perform well in severe weather conditions.

But for these reasons and others, rubber roofing may also be the answer to your residential roofing needs. The fact is that rubber roofing presents many benefits and only a few downsides.

Whether you require a high-performance roofing system for your home or your business, you should know all the pros and cons of rubber roofing.

In the following post, Roofer’s Guild will review the advantages and disadvantages of this popular roofing material.

Pros & Cons for Rubber Roofing (Blog Cover)

Key Takeaway

Rubber roofing presents many benefits like affordability, weather resistance, and longevity compared to relatively few drawbacks like heat absorption.

Benefits of Rubber Roofing

Rubber roofing has been around since the ’60s. The story of how it became a popular option is pretty impressive, too.

EPDM roofing had its heyday in the ’70s because, back then, an oil embargo in the Middle East made high-quality asphalt roofing materials both hard to come by and expensive.

People started turning to rubber roofing as an alternative and quickly noticed its many benefits.

EPDM roofing has been around for over half a century, and there are plenty of reasons why:

Affordability

EPDM roofing is one of the most inexpensive materials you can select for your property. It can cost as little as $0.50 per square foot whereas other rubber materials like PVC can cost as much as $3.00 per sqaure foot.

Ease of Installation

Rubber roofing materials are very lightweight and more straightforward to install than many other roofing systems. Rather than being welded together to form a tight seal, most rubber roofing systems are continuous, single-ply.

They then adhere to the roofing substrate with industrial roofing adhesive—no need for cutting, shearing, or welding. As a result of the ease of installing rubber roofing systems, the cost lowers, making it even more affordable.

Safety

A fire hazard is one of the most significant drawbacks of many other roofing systems. But rubber roofing is extremely flame retardant.

Having rubber roofing on your building is equivalent to placing a fire-resistant shield on top of your building.

Not only can it delay the spread of flames during a structure fire, but it can also prevent flames from catching from a structure fire nearby.

Weather Resistance

Rubber roofing is composed of a cross-linked material. Such material is exceptionally resistant to severe weather because of its chemical makeup.

It is resilient and stands up to hail impact damage very well; it doesn’t catch fire even when lightning strikes and provides excellent water-proofing even in torrential downpours.

Plus, rubber roofing is inherently a low-profile roofing system, so it won’t be a hazard in high winds either.

Lowered Insurance

Insurance companies are willing to offer discounts between 5 and 35 percent if you install a roof that protects against impact, hail, and lightning damage.

As explained in the previous point, rubber roofing is resistant to all such damage. Installing a rubber roof could save you even more money in annual insurance coverage costs.

Longevity

Seams are typically what make a roofing system weak. When there are many seams, there are many opportunities for water to get between those seams, damage the roof, and wreak havoc on the entire building.

But with rubber roofing, there are little to no seams created during installation. A lack of seams makes it an incredibly durable roofing option.

An adequately installed rubber roofing system (particularly EPDM roofing) can last for 50+ years.

Disadvantages of Rubber Roofing

There is not much to mention regarding the drawbacks of this kind of roofing system. And in fact, many of the flaws are avoidable with a few tweaks.

Appearance

Rubber roofing looks very plain, industrial, and sometimes downright ugly. Many people don’t even consider it an option for their homes because it can make a house look.

However, some manufacturers are now producing rubber roofing strips that resemble standard shingles.

Heat Absorption

Another typical drawback of rubber roofing systems is that the materials usually come in flat black, which can absorb a lot of heat and drive up your cooling costs.

But once again, it’s avoidable. Rubber roofing now comes in lighter, more UV-reflective colors to address this shortcoming.

Furthermore, rubber roofing materials can easily be coated with acrylic paint to make them more reflective and add another layer of protection to the material.

Load Bearing

Many people ask us, “Can you walk on a rubber roof?” The answer is usually maybe.

Rubber roofs can take light foot traffic but require fortification if you need to load building and construction materials onto them if you add a balcony, deck, or second story to your building.

Many people see this as a disadvantage, but it can be negated by adding additional materials to make them stronger.

Helping You Make Yhe Right Rubber Roofing Choice

If you require a rubber roofing contractor in your area, try searching Google for rubber roofing near me. Select one of the companies that appears within the Local 3-Pack and give them a call or submit a form.

You can read some of their previous customer reviews to determine whether the company is trustworthy and worth your investment. You might also ask some of your friends and neighbors for a roofing referral.

May '20

4 Common TPO Roofing Problems to Consider in 2024

One of the more common roofing systems is known as TPO or a single-ply membrane.

While its popularity stems from various benefits, consumers should also be aware of potential TPO roofing problems before making a final decision.

TPO membranes are currently one of the fastest-growing commercial roofing systems in 2024.

TPO Roofing Benefits

There are many benefits to implementing a TPO roofing system onto your current commercial roof. It has great strength, durability, and flexibility.

That means being able to stand up to a build-up of dirt, resistance to tears, and mold growth as well.

Perhaps its best trait is that it is energy efficient. TPO membrane is meant to reflect and resist those UV rays that can heat up a building, making it easier and more efficient to keep the building cooler.

This, in turn, means that the building doesn’t need to use the HVAC system to compensate.

TPO roofs are a highly efficient and effective roofing system for commercial roofing buildings, especially flat roofs.

TPO Roofing Problems

As good as these roofing systems are, there are four common TPO roofing problems to be aware of.

1) Easily Punctured Membrane

Of all the TPO roofing problems there are, this is the one that is probably the most problematic. While this roofing system can be walked on, and it is both flexible and lightweight, the membrane itself can be easily punctured.

With commercial roofs, one of the more common TPO roofing problems is a high volume of foot traffic compared to other types of buildings or roofing structures.

The single-ply membrane roofing doesn’t have a hard-top layer that is meant to protect the layer of synthetic rubber from things like gravel, dropped tools, or loose screws.

Common TPO roofing problems like this see those materials pushed into the rubber membrane, breaking or tearing it by creating holes in the rubber and insulation.

This leaves the roofing system more vulnerable to leaks further down the line.

With a proper primer, you can take this one off the list of TPO roofing problems by giving it an extra layer of insulation and protection that it did not have previously.

2) Expired Warranty

Here’s a key tip: purchase the warranty when you have a new roofing system installed. This is because most manufacturer warranties will require the contractor to perform those repairs for the first couple of years after the initial installation.

Warranties can also be anywhere from 15 to 30 years. Common TPO roofing problems can be solved by having a warranty on your side.

Stay on top of it because when your warranty expires, you could be susceptible to higher maintenance and repair bills, especially if your facility has encountered problems.

It cannot be emphasized enough that having a warranty is a great way to keep TPO roofing problems in check.

Things happen, leaks occur, damage can be done, and having a quick, reliable fix on your side is far easier than finding a repair service on your own and eating the costs out of your pocket.

Protecting yourself is a little more costly than you may have thought, but it is a great way to protect yourself from persistent problems or future repair bills. That alone makes it worth the cost alone.

3) UV Rays Degrading the Adhesives

Wear and tear is certainly one of the most common TPO roofing problems. Actually, scratch that. It is one of the most common problems with any roofing system out there.

This is because it is exposed to the elements 24 hours a day, seven days a week.

That also means constant exposure to the sun. Those harmful UV rays can significantly damage a roofing system over time.

It can happen in many different ways, but the most common TPO roofing problems occur when those UV rays degrade the adhesives used to attach the membrane to the substrate.

Not only that, but those adhesives are also what seal the seams of the membranes together to create the waterproof seal that keeps your roof safe in even some of the harshest of weather conditions. Without that seal, your roof is vulnerable.

When there are punctures, tears, or other damage to your roof, those UV rays can come into contact with the adhesive layer and cause a lot more damage when those adhesives deteriorate.

That is why it is important to ensure that the membrane sheets overlap during installation. This will block the adhesives from exposure to UV rays and prevent those TPO roofing problems from occurring, at least not consistently.

4) Longevity

Perhaps the most common TPO roofing problems are that they tend not to last as long as some other roofing systems. TPO roofing is definitely strong and durable, but it is still something of a young technology in the roofing industry.

That means that the formula that is used to produce this TPO material is still far from perfect as the manufacturers attempt to find a balance between affordability and durability.

This means that, along the way, some of these roofing systems have had common TPO roofing problems like material failures and seam cracks.

Some improvements have been made along the way, but it may be some time before the formula is perfected. Still, TPO roofing systems are affordable and tend to be durable more often than not.

All of these TPO roofing problems are fairly common, and that means that they are relatively easy to solve as well.

Keeping this in mind, it is easier to keep them working optimally and avoid having to deal with major issues or damages to your roofing system.

Final Takeaway on TPO Roofing Problems

TPO roofing systems offer various benefits to commercial properties, making them one of the most popular choices in 2024.

However, TPO roofs also come with a set of potential problems that consumers should be aware of before making a final decision.

While these problems are not severe enough to dwindle the popularity of this ascending roof type, they are worth exploring when considering all your roofing options.

Feb '20

How Much Weight Can a Concrete Roof Support?

When considering roofing materials, there are a lot of factors to take into consideration. Durability, cost, and a litany of other things can impact which material you go with for your residential or commercial roof. But weight capacity is another important one.

Some mistakenly believe that concrete roofs are endlessly sturdy, regardless of contributing factors. That is not the case. In the following article, Roofer’s Guild explores the nuances of this topic.

How Much Weight Can a Concrete Roof Support (Cover)

Key Takeaway

A concrete roof can support about 1,200 pounds per square foot. However, variables like thickness, reinforcements, and installation quality all contribute to its maximum capacity.

How Much Weight Can a Concrete Roof Hold Per Square Foot?

While the answer to this question can vary greatly on several factors within the concrete itself, a good rule of thumb is around 1,200 pounds per square foot, depending on the thickness of the concrete and whether or not it has any reinforcements.

A common mistake is that amateur roofers just assume that concrete is impossibly strong, but it has weight restrictions just like any other material.

Reinforcing the Roof

With newer installations, this is likely a common practice performed by the roofer doing the job. But in older homes, the question of weight support becomes irrelevant if it is quite old or has experienced a lot of damage.

While a complete replacement is the most ideal of scenarios, the cost of a new roof is often not so realistic.

That is where reinforcing the roof can help get a longer life out of your roof while implementing a fast, quick repair and reinforcement that will keep the structural integrity of the roof sound for some time.

Again, it is highly recommended that you get a new roof wherever you can. Still, there are a couple of ways to reinforce your roof to give it a little boost in terms of life span.

Addressing Repairs with Patching

If the deterioration or damage to your concrete roof isn’t terribly bad, it can be patched to extend its life a little longer.

But if you are implementing extensive patchwork, it is important to note that you should not assume that it can take on a proper load and will never be able to handle the maximum weight.

The condition and age of the roof are essential factors for determining the amount of weight it can support so that you or a roofing contractor can safely traverse the roof.

Strengthening Existing Trusses

This is a way to add durability to your roof. By using 2×4s, you simply combine them with any existing trusses that may be in place from one end of the structure to the next. This can allow for extra stability.

However, this is not meant to be a long-term solution if the roof is showing signs of wear and deterioration.

Exercise caution whenever getting on the roof and understand that this is just prolonging the eventual replacement of the roof entirely.

Signs That the Roof is Failing

While not every roofing structure will provide clear warning signs, the question of weight support becomes moot once the damage is obvious.

Existing damage makes traversing the roof unsafe and a serious hazard.

There are definitely a few things to keep an eye out for regarding the condition of your roof and whether or not there may be issues currently occurring.

Leaks

The biggest issue plaguing roofing systems, concrete roofs, too, is in the form of leaks. If you see multiple wet spots in your ceiling or moisture retained on the roof, it is a strong sign that the roof has a weak spot that can lead to bigger issues.

Leaks are a huge issue not only for the roofing system itself but for the structural integrity of the rest of the building.

If that water is allowed to persist, it has the chance to rot and decay wood that could provide structural support and lead to mold growth, making it a hazard to the air quality in the building.

Cracks

Cracks are a clear indication that there may be problems with your roof. This can mean that stress is being implemented onto the roof and spreading outward in other directions.

This can lead to serious problems with your concrete roof, making it structurally vulnerable and making it unsafe to be near.

Small cracks are not a terribly big idea, but calling in a proper roofing contractor to survey the scene and understand the situation will allow you to stay ahead of any potentially disastrous situations.

It is always better to exercise caution in scenarios such as these.

Other Weight Considerations for Concrete Roofs

So many factors determine “how much weight can a concrete roof support” that it isn’t a black-and-white question.

A concrete roof can safely support around 1,200 pounds (0.54 t) per square foot when completely healthy and showing no signs of wear and tear.

But that figure can drop exponentially when leaks, cracking, chipping, and other damage rears their ugly head. If you see areas of your concrete roof that look concerning, the safest bet is to avoid stepping in those areas and leave it to the professionals.

Your concrete roof can stand up to a lot and prove to be a durable choice in roofing material, but it is certainly not immune to its own issues. You can consult this roof load calculator if you are worried about snow.

Final Thoughts

A concrete roof can typically support about 1,200 pounds per square foot. However, variables like thickness, reinforcements, and the quality of installation can all alter that general threshold.

Roofing contractors and property owners can both take measures to maximize the concrete roof’s weight capacity, including performing repairs, adding reinforcements, and strengthening the trusses.

Feb '20

What is Roof Decking? (Definition, Materials + Types)

Table of Contents

What is Roof Decking?

Roof decking is the material that lays between the structural components of a roof (joists and trusses), the insulation, and the waterproofing layers (coatings, roofing materials, etc.).

The roof deck is the section of the roof where everything else is placed. Because of this, it needs to be strong enough to hold weight and durable enough to cope with having some give.

Roof Decking Material

A wide variety of materials can be used for roof decking. This can include anything from wood to cement, concrete to steel. The material used depends on how much weight it needs to carry.

Other factors include the weight of any air conditioning equipment, rainfall in the area, and any potential snow build-up. Special features, something like walking decks or rooftop swimming pools or bars, may also be needed for extra support.

Types of Roof Decking

Generally speaking, there are three different types of roof decking to keep in mind: tongue and groove, plywood or OSB sheathing, and plank sheathing. Understanding the different kinds can give you a good idea of what to expect out of each.

The type of roof decking varies based on whether you have a commercial or residential need. Residential buildings will likely use wood for the roof decking because it stands up to the weight of just about anything that will be placed on top of it.

Tongue and Groove

Tongue and groove decking is usually done with a 2×6 “tongue” formed on one edge of the board. This is meant to fit snugly into the “groove” in the adjacent board. This can be something of a challenge to replace as it is something that is not readily available in most lumber yards.

Generally, this is a highly durable and stout roof decking. It will only need to be repaired when it has had extensive exposure to moisture. Be sure to take a long look when going over your tongue and groove roof decking.

Plywood or OSB Sheathing

When it comes to plywood or OSB sheathing, you may have seen it before under the false term of Wafer Board. Builders began using this method because it has strength and longevity against splitting.

These methods became increasingly popular in the early 1980s and 1990s and are now almost exclusively used by builders across the industry.

There are a few points that you should definitely be aware of during the installation process. Make sure to install the boards using staggered vertical joints and ensure they are parallel to the ridge line.

The vertical joints that are between the boards have to be supported along the whole length and need to be nailed securely.

It is also vital to ensure that you have sufficient support with an absolute maximum of 600 mm between the two rafters. Those plywood panels should be installed with 3 mm spacing between each panel unless it has been stated differently by the manufacturer.

Plank Sheathing

Plank sheathing, meanwhile, is typically something that was used before plywood. Wood shingles are expensive when it comes time to tear down and replace them, so re-sheathing over the entire roof is a far cheaper method.

Plank sheathing is generally susceptible to distortion, thanks to weather changes. This can result in constant expansion and contraction that can wear down those planks over time, making them brittle with enough expansion and contraction.

It is also important to stagger your joint boards. When a number of those adjacent boards join on the same support or rafter, it can be possible for the deck to move due to all that distortion to a crack line in the singles. All the wood boards must be properly conditioned to maintain moisture equilibrium.

There should also be a sufficient number of fasteners to prevent any kind of buckling, and each board should be fastened with at least two nails in each rafter to ensure that it is held securely but without too much force.

Purpose of Roof Decking

Generally, your roof deck is meant to hold the fasteners to secure the roof. Sure, it can support foot traffic and the occasional snow load that will inevitably happen with any roof out there.

If that wood is compromised, it might not be able to provide the level of holding power that will allow the roof to last its suggested lifespan.

Having a proper roof deck is the foundation of any sound roofing system. The deck is meant to resist gravity loads and lateral loading from things like the wind and other seismic forces.

A proper roof decking will meet design requirements like component anchorage technique, deflection resistance, fire resistance, surface characteristics, and dimensional stability.

Assessing Your Existing Roof Decking

There are several reasons that property owners should be interested in the type of roof deck on the building and its condition. Among them are the following reasons:

Condition of the roof deck – is it detached, corroded, unsafe, or damaged? Has the deck been deflected or deformed to the point where it ponds water?
Stability – Can the deck handle a much heavier roofing system like a built-up roof membrane with a ballasted single-ply system?
Resistance – If the mechanical fasteners are going to be used to attach insulation or a single-ply membrane to the deck itself, will that deck be able to provide the necessary pullout resistance? Some single-ply systems require a more robust steel deck to meet wind design.
Removal – Can the deck sections be safely replaced or removed if necessary if the roof needs patching? In the past, removing and replacing deteriorated decking with metal decking and rigid roof insulation was common. This can actually be quite unsafe and is definitely not recommended. Instead, new form boards and galvanized wire mesh should be used. Ensure the galvanized wire mesh is attached to the existing wire near the patch’s perimeter. This is done for safety reasons.
Clearance – If the existing roofing is going to be removed all the way down to the deck and the tapered insulation or a sloped fill is going to be the way to solve the ponding problem, you need to know if the clearance at access doors, windows, and other equipment hatches will be imperiled.
PV Panels – What about adding PV panels to the building roof? If this is part of the plan, you must know how they will be attached to the structure.

The roof’s decking plays a critical part in supporting the overlaying material. The material itself is certainly important for keeping the elements away and holding up to the constant wear and tear that comes with exposure to the elements. Still, it doesn’t do its job with the proper roof decking.

Addressing Wooden Deck Problems

Ensure to properly ventilate your attic to eliminate any excess moisture that deck panels can absorb. This reduces the amount of shrinking and swelling the wood experiences, helping it last longer without turning brittle and breaking.

If that brittleness occurs, it can compromise the structural integrity of your roof, and you will have to have costly repairs or replacements done immediately to prevent any safety hazards.

Regardless of what style of roof decking you choose, you need to ensure that it is installed properly to get the proper weight support that your roof needs. Consider any additional snow weight if your area sees heavy snowfall so your deck does not bow and crack under additional pressure.

Much like the foundation of your building, the roof decking is the basis on which the rest of the roof operates. Without proper roof decking, your roof will eventually buckle under pressure and must be replaced.

Save yourself a lot of time and labor by ensuring that your roof decking is properly installed and rated to handle the weight on your roof. You can then focus on implementing the roofing materials needed to get the right roof for you.

In Conclusion

Roof decking is an essential component of the roofing system and one that should not be overlooked. From supporting roofing materials to securing the roof’s structural integrity, decking is somewhat of an unsung hero in the system’s design and implementation.

Additional functions of roof decking include weatherproofing, insulation, and ventilation, all of which impact the health and longevity of your roofing system.

Jan '20

Roof Flashing (Types + Techniques)

What is Roof Flashing?

Roof flashing is a thin material—typically galvanized steel—that professional roofers use to direct water away from the critical areas of the roof. It is typically wherever the roof plan meets a vertical surface, like a dormer or a wall.

Roof Flashing Types

Continuous

Base

Counter

Step

Skylight

Valley

Drip Edges

Kickout

The Basics of Roof Flashing Installation

The flashing is installed to surround the features of the roof, such as chimneys, vents, and skylights. Water should then run down the side of the flashing and be directed to the shingles instead of finding a way into the roof deck.

The Purpose of Flashing

Without the roof flashing against those walls, water would slowly drip into the space between the roof and wall and even potentially into the home.

So, what do you do when you need roof flashing? Knowing the different types and the techniques to implement can be helpful.

Roof Flashing Types

There are numerous types of roof flashing to choose from. Check out some examples below:

Continuous Flashing. It is also known as “apron flashing” because it acts similarly to an apron. It is a long, single piece of metal used to carry the water down to the shingles below.

Base Flashing. Some roof features, like chimneys, require two pieces of flashing to ensure the rain always meets a flashing surface to direct it downward. Not only that, it is notoriously difficult to install flashing around a chimney.

Counter Flashing. Placed opposite the base flashing or above the base flashing. Counter flashing completes the team with the aforementioned base flashing.

Step Flashing. A rectangular piece of flashing bent 90 degrees in the middle, generally used for wall flashing. In this instance, multiple pieces of flashing will be installed as layers with the shingles to ensure the water flows away from the wall.

Skylight Flashing. Some skylight manufacturers include flashing with their products, but others require you to create or purchase it separately. Knowing which option you have beforehand is helpful.

Valley Flashing. Any open valleys on your roof have metal flashing in order to protect this area, which is a critical area of the roof.

Drip Edges. At the edge of the roof, there is a thin metal flashing that allows water to drip off the roof without damaging the home or causing a pesky leak that can cause further damage to the roof or home.

Kickout Flashing. Roofing contractors generally need something to bridge the gap between where the step flashing comes to an end and where the gutter begins. This kind of flashing is used to direct water away from the wall and down into the gutter.

Roof Flashing Materials

You also need to be aware of a few different roofing materials. In the past, these would have been lead or lead-coated materials. Now, professionals throughout North America have switched to one of three materials.

Aluminum Flashing

Aluminum is generally easy for roofers to form and quite lightweight. However, it has to be coated if it is going to be used with masonry and concrete since plain aluminum degrades and reacts when it makes contact with alkaline surfaces.

Copper Roof Flashing

Copper takes soldering well and is also malleable, highly durable, and tends to have a longer-lasting life. On the other hand, there is some discoloring in the patina, which can vary depending on the homeowner. Copper flashing is routinely found around chimneys.

Steel Flashing

Steel is the most popular choice for flashing. In addition to aesthetic value, it is also malleable and corrosion-resistant when galvanized.

Be aware of building codes that may require or disallow a specific material. Have your roofing contractor look into this so that you are covered.

Identifying Flashing Types

There are quite a few types of roof flashing, nearly as many as parts to the roof. Each roof feature requires protection, hence the many different types of roof flashing.

Longer pieces of continuous flashing have trouble flexing as the home contracts and expands during the changing of the seasons. If left alone, it could warp or break and fail to keep that water out. If using longer pieces, they should have built-in expansion joints so that they can move as the home does.

Another benefit to two-part flashing is that when the roofing materials expand and contract with the weather, those two pieces can move, so the system stays secure.

Roof Flashing Techniques

So, how do you properly install roof flashing? Here are a few helpful techniques.

Step Flashing

The best place for step flashing is where the roof face meets a wall, such as where the dormer projects out from the roof. In a spot like this, it is entirely possible that water could flow down the wall and past the shingles into the building below.

Plumbing Vent Boot Flashing

Simply put, vent flashing has a cylindrical piece of flashing that fits around the vent itself. These shingles are installed over the base or the boot. The height of the boot is meant to force water to run around the vent itself.

Counter Flashing

Counter-flashing is commonly used to flash chimneys and involves two flashing pieces. The first piece, the base flashing, is meant to sit around the base of the chimney. The second piece, the counter-flashing itself, finds itself embedded in the chimney’s masonry.

This piece sits over the base flashing, ensuring the water doesn’t slip in behind it. Professional contractors generally use counter-flashing for a litany of other purposes, but it typically involves a second piece of flashing set off from the first.

Before you can learn to install roof flashing, you need to understand the three primary techniques involved. Each one is different and can be suitable for different areas of the roof. There are also flashing types that tend to correspond with a specific technique.

Step flashing ensures that water is properly directed away from the wall and winds up in the gutter. It is called step flashing because it is installed in—you guessed it—steps. The flashing involves layers of shingles between them, so the water gets poured down each step and down the roof.

Nails vs. Sealent

Using a sealant is key when installing roof flashing. Roofing professionals, generally of the old-school variety, still use nails while flashing. While nails can work, the roofer must choose whether to nail to the roof plane or to the vertical wall itself.

Nails

If the contractor decides to nail both, the flashing could deform under the pressure of shifting wood or brick. If they decide to nail only to the roof plane or the vertical wall, the flashing can then stay in place while the other materials contract and expand as the weather changes.

Weather change can wreak the most havoc. If the wrong materials are used or installed improperly, constant expansion and contraction can lead to bent or warped materials, making them more brittle until they finally break.

Cement

Roofing cement is generally accepted as the most common type of roofing sealant because it is meant to create a waterproof seal. Roofing professionals can use a trowel to apply it evenly so that it adheres properly.

Protecting Your Roof

Ultimately, installing flashing and applying a proper sealant is meant to protect your roof and its trouble areas from water and other damaging elements.

Those hard-to-reach areas can be the first to go without proper flashing, so it is imperative for the life of your roof that you have a flash that will expand and contract with the elements and divert the water off the roof.

Amateur roofers, who may not have the necessary knowledge or experience, can miss those tough-to-reach areas. Hiring a licensed and reputable roofing contractor ensures that those trouble areas do not worsen.

If not handled properly, water could pool around vents or the chimney and damage areas of the roof, creating discoloration and even leaks. If left unchecked, those leaks could cause structural damage.

A proper roof flashing can do wonders for protecting your roof from water damage and unnecessary wear and tear to those trouble areas on your roof.

Dec '19

Can You Live in a House While The Roof is Replaced?

Roof replacements are a significant project that can disrupt the daily lives of homeowners. With this in mind, it’s important to plan ahead to ensure the process goes as smoothly as possible. One of the first choices you must make is whether or not to stay home during the replacement.

Ultimately, it’s your choice whether or not to stay home during a roof replacement, but you are going to have to deal with a variety of disruptions that could impact your decision.

Key Takeaway

You can live in your house during roof replacement, but there are annoyances you will have to endure during the process. The most important thing is securing your pets and ensuring any outdoor furniture is out of harm’s way.

Table of Contents

Roof Replacement Can Be Inconvenient

Whatever the reason, there can come a time when you need to replace that roof and upgrade to something more effective and current than what you might have had. This doesn’t have to be a nightmare scenario if you choose the right roofing company, but it is still going to be inconvenient.

If you choose to leave your home during the process, you will have to make arrangements to stay at a hotel or with family or friends. If you choose to stay home, you will have to put up with various sounds and ensure that your pets are completely safe.

Regardless of whether or not you stay home during the replacement, the project itself is likely to disrupt your schedule, one way or another.

You Can Stay Home When Your Roof is Being Replaced

While it can be a sizeable inconvenience to your life, you can still live at home while your roof is being replaced. A roofing company worth their salt will take special care to ensure you are not inconvenienced during the replacement.

Roofers fully understand that you have things to do: raising the kids, household responsibilities, cleaning, taking care of the pets, and any other things that you might have to do.

Of course, you will want to know how long and when to wait for the roofing job to be completed, so you don’t plan any family gatherings or have friends over during the repairs, as that could cause inconveniences to the roofers.

FAQs About Staying Home During Roof Replacement

Are There Major Downsides to Staying Home During a Roof Replacement?

There are things that you will have to put up with, but as long as you follow a few safety guidelines, you should be able to do so without any major concerns or issues while replacing your roof.

How Loud is Roof Replacement?

The replacement process can be very loud, and depending on your noise tolerance, it might annoy you considerably. Take a listen for yourself:

Will Roofers Come Inside During a Replacement?

It depends on where you are in the replacement timeline. There will be periods when the roofer must access the indoors to inspect the attic. But this is done before the replacement.

How Long Does Roof Replacement Take?

With a quality roofing contractor, the job should take a few days to complete, and you can still live and work about your home as normal. However, in some cases, a replacement can take up to 14 days (2 weeks).

Most roof replacement projects conclude in just a few days, but larger homes may require more extensive projects that can last up to two full weeks or 14 days.

Other Considerations During Roof Replacement

Keep Your Pets Secured During Replacement

One of the more important things to keep in mind during this process is to keep your pets secured during the entirety of the roof replacement. Because there are many new and different things happening, they may not adjust well to these noises and new people in the area.

If possible or necessary, you might want to take the pets out of the home during the repairs that are being done and then bring them back later. You will be thankful that you did it for both the sake of your pets and your sanity.

This might be a good protocol to follow with your kids as well. Make sure that they are not playing around the house while the roofing is being done and that they know to only stay within designated areas so that they do not put themselves in harm’s way or disrupt the roofers at work.

Cleanup Your Outdoor Area

For those with outdoor furniture or any items of value that might be outside, make sure to remove those items before the crew arrives. The last thing that you want is to have something damaged during the process that could have been simply stored away.

Anything that can’t be moved should be properly covered and protected to ensure that it is not damaged in any way. It can also help to make the roofing company aware of these things, especially if they are larger items that can’t be moved out of the way easily.

Another thing to remember is that the replacement process can be fairly noisy. While this is easier to deal with within your home because you are aware of it, your neighbors might not appreciate it very much.

Give them the heads up that you have scheduled to have your roof replaced so that they can make proper accommodations for dealing with the noise during this time.

Coordinate With The Roofing Contractors

Ultimately, the roofing replacement process is more of a team effort than you might think. You need to work with the roofing company to ensure that the process goes as smoothly as possible and that everything is accommodated.

When this isn’t the case, it can make for a rough and uncomfortable experience.

A proper, professional roofing company will take any and all special care to coordinate with you and let you know what is happening each step of the way.

Safety is paramount in these situations, and if there is any major inconvenience that you may have to deal with, the roofing company will be sure to communicate that with you.

Since your roof is your home’s first line of defense, keeping it in the best condition possible is paramount. Keeping it in great condition is important for the investment that is your home and for increasing the equity of your home.

The right roofing replacement professionals will take the most care possible each step of the way and will communicate any issues along the way.

It might not be the ideal scenario, but having your roof replaced does not have to be a massive inconvenience.

It might be a few days of things being out of the norm, but you will be able to move forward with a brand new roof that will protect you and yours for a long time to come.

Final Thoughts

While staying home during roof replacement is certainly possible, there are measures you must take to ensure a safe and relatively tolerable experience.

Of course, you can avoid many of these headaches but staying with a friend or relative or at a hotel during the replacement process.

Still, the choice ultimately comes down to your preference, alternatives, and budget.

Dec '19

Remedies for Water Pooling on Flat Roofs (Tips + Hacks)

Ponding water might not be an immediate threat, but if it persists over time, it can begin to wear on the roofing membrane.

This leads to a decline in the membrane’s lifespan and can cause leaks, which can cause serious problems for the rest of the building.

Thankfully, there are a few different remedies that you can employ to resolve those ponding water issues on your flat roof before it starts leaking.

Water Pooling on a Rooftop (Blog Banner)

Keys to Stopping Water Pooling on a Flat Roof

Flush drains of debris like dirt, branches, and twigs

Add more drain lines

Use a roof plaster to direct water toward the drains

Install roof crickets

Perform regular inspections and maintenance

Flush Existing Drains

Like the drains in your home, drains on commercial roofs can eventually become clogged with debris. In more extreme cases, these serious clogs can lead to standing water becoming a mainstay on your roof.

To prevent debris buildup, try removing sticks, leaves, and any other rooftop debris from your building’s drainage system. Not only will this allow rain and melting snow to flow away from your building, but it will also prolong the life of your drainage system.

On its own, that debris seems harmless. But when it builds and builds, it can lead to various issues with your roof and the drainage system. Take those preventative measures, and you should see a longer life for your drainage system and your roof.

You can also hire a professional roofing service to come out and perform preventative cleanings on your drainage systems once or twice per year. That should be adequate to keep your drainage system clean and working optimally.

That bit of preventative maintenance might cost a little money in the short term but will save you a lot of time, money, and trouble in the long term.

Fix Low Spots

Despite their name, commercial flat roofs aren’t always completely flat. This is because subtle slopes on the surface of the roof can result from the installation process, weak spots in the roof, or a particular focus of debris or precipitation.

Additionally, qualified contractors understand how to slope a flat roof for drainage. These slopes are meant to facilitate drainage so that there is not a lot of pooling water on your roof.

It helps to remove that extra water off to the edges of the building, where an external drainage system lives, or to designated internal drains that will carry the water away.

One of the flaws of these low spots is that water ponding can occur quite easily. When that happens, the drains can clog with debris and fail to do their job. This leads to a buildup of water that can damage the roof membrane and eventually cause leakage.

A professional roofing contractor can fill those loose areas with a roof plaster to better direct water towards the drains.

Directing as much water as possible to your building’s internal or external drains is the goal.

Add More Drain Lines

If the current drainage system is having trouble effectively removing water from your flat roof, there are a few things that you can look into to help the process along. Though it comes with additional costs, adding additional drains is one of the most effective ways to address this issue.

Flat roofs, particularly those in areas with high precipitation, will sometimes need additional drains to properly clear the water from the roof. Unfortunately, most building owners don’t realize this until they see that water ponding becomes a substantial problem in the wake of a heavy storm.

Most professional roofing contractors worth their salt can install extra drain lines or even widen the existing drains attached to your building to direct excess water away from the rooftop.

Again, this is an extra cost, so most building owners will avoid this option. Still, it isn’t out there if there is a more efficient option.

Install Roof Crickets

When pooling on your flat roof, the water ponds in specific areas. These areas typically are near chimneys or around large vents. The best way to battle water ponding in these areas is to install roof crickets.

Crickets are ridged structures designed to divert melted snow and rainwater around roofing obstructions like chimneys and vents. Because of their positioning or design, those obstructions may have a naturally difficult time draining water on their own.

Adding crickets to these obstructed areas can also help when standing water is typically associated with transitions between roof areas. If you are experiencing ponding water in other areas of the roof, crickets might not be enough. It is important to know how to drain water from a flat roof.

If most of the standing water revolves around those obstructed areas, installing roof crickets can be the remedy you have been searching for.

Re-pitch The Rooftop

One issue your commercial building roof could be having when it comes to keeping away ponding water is that the pitch was not properly designed or installed during the initial process. All roofs need some form of sloping, even if it is subtle.

Without the right amount of slope, the water that builds during a storm won’t be able to drain and will, more often than not, lead to additional pooling across your flat commercial roof.

Re-pitching the roof might be costly, but it might also be the only way to solve consistent ponding issues on your commercial roof. It might be worth exploring other options first, but if you need to make the investment, there are far worse things to do with your money.

If you know what you are looking for, you can actually re-pitch the roof before a problem arises. Sure, noticing standing water is an obvious sign, but maybe you live in an area with many storms and want to take preventative measures.

Replace The Membrane

The membrane of your roof is the protective layer that keeps your roof safe from things like moisture getting into the roof, attic, or other areas of the building. When that moisture builds up in the structure of your building, it can cause substantial structural damage.

When the membrane becomes damaged – which can happen for various reasons, ponding water chief among them – it might be worth simply getting a new membrane for the roof.

Many membranes are designed to withstand ponding water, so it might be a blessing in disguise if you have to replace the membrane of your current roof with a more effective, modern version. An inspector will know how much ponding is acceptable on a flat roof.

You can also perform preventative maintenance to ensure that the membrane stands the test of time.

Inspect once or twice yearly to ensure the membrane is holding up and not worn or damaged in areas.

Compress Insulation

Compressed insulation, another potential cause of ponding water on your commercial roof, can be combated with frequent inspections. If that insulation is insufficient, your roof can also have serious issues.

Compressed insulation is generally caused by heavy roofing equipment resting on the insulation during installation. Repeated treading over the roof area can also cause indentations in the roof, which can lead to pooling.

You must ensure proper precautions are taken with the insulation and during any inspection processes. Damaging the roof through these processes is easy when some care could save you time and money

Keeping your commercial business roof working optimally is one of the most important aspects of owning that building. Your roof is the last line of defense against the elements, and it needs to work properly.

With preventative maintenance and a little attentiveness, you can keep your roof working the way it is meant to work. Don’t let ponding water become an issue for your business when you can use these tips to get rid of that pesky water.

Final Thoughts on Stopping Water Pooling on a Flat Roof

A flat roof has many benefits, but there is one definitive downside: pooling water. This is because flat roofs do not drain water as effectively as their pitched counterparts. Pitch roofs have a natural slope where the water can run down, draining off the roof.

Because these roofs don’t drain water well, they are prone to developing ponding water. Ponding water is defined in the roofing community as water that stands in a puddle on the roof for more than 48 hours at a time.

Several measures can be taken to prevent water from pooling on a flat roof, including flushing the drains, adding more drain lines, installing roof crickets, and more.

Dec '19

TPO vs. Modified Bitumen Roofing System (Cost, Lifespan, Etc.)

TPO vs. Modified bitumen is a common debate for many commercial building owners.

Generally speaking, two kinds of commercial flat roofing systems are most commonly found in the Northeast. These are modified bitumen and thermoplastic polyolefin or TPO. The former has been around since the 1970s and is one of the more traditional methods of flat commercial roofing.

TPO has been around since the 1990s, and both do well in extreme temperatures, both extremely hot and bitterly cold. And given the locale (the Northeast), this is a perfect set of traits to have to stand up to the huge swings in temperature.

However, TPO commercial roofing is surging in popularity. You might not have realized that TPO roofs are installed more than all other flat roof alternatives combined, including a PVC flat roof.

The following post will examine both kinds of roof systems in depth. It will include the cost, expected life and longevity, and overall value of each roofing system so that you can make the most informed decision possible.

Key Takeaway

TPO is clearly better than modified bitumen because of its energy efficiency, longevity, reliability, customization, and versatility. As a result, TPO roofs are also more expensive.

Modified Bitumen Flat Roofs

One of the primary benefits of using a modified bitumen roof is that it comes at a lower installation cost. However, one of the biggest disadvantages is that many major commercial roofing contractors have stopped installing them, mostly due to the surge in popularity of TPO roofs. Some have gone as far as to start installing TPO over modified bitumen.

As stated previously, modified bitumen began in the 1970s and became a major upgrade over traditional asphalt roofs of the time. It is termed “modified” because of the addition of substances like styrene butadiene styrene (SBS) or atactic polypropylene (APP), which were intended to enhance both flexibility and longevity of the roof, especially compared to those old asphalt roofs.

Over the years, several issues have arisen with modified bitumen roofs.

Lack of APP Modifier

The first is that, although an APP-modified bitumen roof is designed to resist things like UV-light damage, cracking, blistering, and oxidation, there has been a lack of standards in the industry which has led to manufacturers skimping on the addition of that APP as a modifier.

What is the downside of that, exactly? This omission causes the roof to underperform, leading to costly repairs. In the worst case, it could mean that your commercial roof needs replacing, adding another costly endeavor to your plate.

Drainage Issues

The second issue with modified bitumen flat roofs is that, although the gravel spread over a modified bitumen roof is intended to offer hazard and UV protection, that granular surface makes it more difficult to correct drainage issues and detect leaks.

Those drainage issues and leaks can persist far longer than they might with a TPO roof, which means that there can be a buildup of water that can damage the roof’s structure. When something like this happens, it can create structural integrity issues that can lead to even more costly repairs to your commercial business than you had ever expected.

Fire Hazard

The third issue with modified bitumen flat roofs is that using an open flame torch during installation can be a fire hazard. Mishandled torch use has caused more than a few instances of building burning. The risk here is definitely substantial, and it can be substantial enough that some insurers will not even cover roofers who apply modified bitumen using the open torch method.

Open torch installations of modified bitumen are becoming rarer. That said, the cost of a modified bitumen roof remains appealing to some.

Thermoplastic Polyolefin (TPO) Flat Roofs

TPO is also known as flexible thermoplastic polyolefin (FTPO) roofing. Generally speaking, three different kinds of commercial roof installations involve TPO: ballasted, fully adhered, and mechanically fastened.

TPO is considered one of the best values in commercial roofing because it offers a variety of key advantages. Value and longevity are two of the most critical aspects of a commercial roof.

Eco-Friendly

The tear-resistant single-ply membrane is tough and resists oil, grease, and chemical spills. Not only that, but TPO roof systems are also fully recyclable and UV-resistant. Best of all, TPO single-ply roofing is often considered a “green” option because no plasticizers are included in the formulation process.

Color Variety

One of the cool aspects of the rise of TPO roofs in commercial roofing installations is that many building owners and managers now have the option of selecting from over a dozen colors, including white, which has proven to be energy-saving.

The great thing about this is that now you can match your new roof to the exterior color of your building. This might not seem like much, but matching that color scheme can make your building stand out to passersby.

Reduced Energy Costs

Some of those initial costs of installing an Energy Star-rated TPO roof can be recovered through lower energy costs over the life of that commercial roof. That makes it easier to take on the initial costs of installing the TPO roof to your commercial building.

No Tear-Off

Additionally, it is possible to apply TPO roofing systems over preexisting modified bitumen and metal roofs as long as the current roof is in sound condition and not substantially worn or damaged. Applying the new roofing system over the top of an existing roofing system eliminates additional tear-off costs and will reduce the overall disposal expenses. That is a win-win across the board.

Reheatable and Weldable

TPO is also reheatable and weldable, meaning that it is possible to re-weld any seams that require it years later. Smooth-surfaced TPO roof systems are easier to maintain and clean than granular-surfaced roofs, like modified bitumen. Cleaning and maintaining your roof properly means that the roof will hold up for longer, saving you from having to get a new roof for a long time to come.

Thickness Variance

The thickness of the standard TPO single-ply membranes can vary a bit. The “default” is around 45 mils but can be as big as 800 mils. If your roof is in an area where punctures are more likely – due to falling large branches or other sharp objects – you might want to look into a thicker membrane to ensure that your roof does not get punctured by any of those falling objects.

Installation Quality

As with any commercial roofing system, the installation here is key. Whenever a TPO roof fails, it is often the result of damage done during the installation process. If it doesn’t, it is because seams were not properly welded during the installation process.

These seam failures can lead to leaks or potential catastrophic failures when extreme winds occur, causing wind uplift. While these are certainly worst-case scenarios, they are things to be aware of when installing a TPO roof. When you hire a skilled, experienced roofing contractor to handle the installation process, you generally don’t have to worry about these worst-case TPO scenarios.

The premier TPO manufacturers consistently produce high-quality, longer-lasting TPO membranes that you can be confident in and that will last longer than ever before.

Proper TPO installation methods from a certified commercial roofing contractor will ensure that the TPO roof is installed properly and likely won’t fail.

Final Call: Modified Bitumen vs. TPO (TPO is King)

Despite being cheaper, there are just too many downsides to using a modified bitumen roof to make it a viable option anymore. TPO is more energy-efficient, more reliable, and more versatile than its counterparts in the roofing industry.

Combined with the ability to customize the color of your roofing surface, there is just no matching TPO as a commercial roofing option. They also last longer than bitumen flat roofs, meaning you save on the costs of a potential installation that would occur sooner rather than later with a bitumen roofing system.

When you run a commercial business, there are a million things you must keep in mind and worry about; your commercial roof should be at the bottom of that list. When installing a TPO flat roof on your building, you properly protect it from even the most extreme elements for a long time.

When your heating and cooling bills are far less than ever, you can save a ton on installation costs over the years. You can have confidence in your commercial roof’s ability to stand the test of time and handle the elements easily, allowing you to focus on the most important aspects of your business, like generating revenue to keep that business going.

TPO is the reigning king of roofing materials and will likely continue to hold that spot for a long time.