,

How Long Does a Commercial Roof Last?

Different commercial roofing types.

Whether you’re a new building owner or own multiple buildings, you might have asked yourself, “How long does a commercial roof last?” Unfortunately, there is no single answer to the question of your roof’s lifespan. The type of roof typically dictates the number of years you can expect your roof to last. Different roofing materials have varying expected average lifespans. However, regardless of the type of roof, there are steps you can take to get the most years out of your commercial building’s roof.

Read more

/by
,

Managing Roofing Assets for Multiple Facilities: Is It a 1-Person Job?

Contractor managing roofing assets for multiple facilities.

The building’s roof is the first level of protection from the elements. That’s why proper roof management is crucial to prevent damage and avoid a preventable roof replacement. Regular inspections and maintenance are the best way to avoid costly repairs on your roof, which is multiplied when you incorporate multiple buildings. So, what are the challenges you’ll face managing roofing assets for multiple facilities— and can one contractor do it all?

Read more

/by
,

Common Commercial Roofing Skylight Issues and Maintenance

Skylights on a commercial roof.

Skylights are a great addition to the roof system of a commercial building. They are becoming more common not only for large commercial structures but also in schools, libraries, and hospitals. Allowing in natural light increases the building’s energy efficiency by reducing the use of artificial light. 

Natural light also comes with added health benefits, too as it increases the health and productivity of the occupants in the building. Natural light even helps ward off symptoms of seasonal affective disorder (SAD) by allowing more light in during the fall and winter months. While there are many benefits, there are also common commercial roofing skylight issues.

Skylight installation, as with any building component, comes with its own set of challenges and concerns. Learn more about common skylight problems and how to address them. 

Read more

/by

Get the Most of Your Unit: The Importance of Commercial HVAC Service and Your Rooftop

Business owners must understand the importance of commercial HVAC services. Learn how to maintain the delicate balance between your roof and HVAC unit.

More businesses are placing their HVAC (heating, ventilation, and air conditioning) units on their rooftops. There are many benefits to rooftop HVAC placement, although they still require regular maintenance. Learn more about the importance of commercial HVAC service, especially when the unit is on the roof.

Read more

/by
,

The Delicate Balance Between Commercial Roofing and HVAC Units: What You Need to Know

Commercial roofing with a rooftop HVAC system

High-functioning HVAC (heating, ventilation, and air conditioning) units are important for your commercial building: they provide comfortable air temperatures for everyone inside! But, what’s that have to do with commercial roofing?

Many business owners choose rooftop HVAC units because they eliminate excess sound, improve the look of the building exterior (and are all-around more secure). But, while rooftop placement has many benefits, there is a delicate balance that should be maintained between your commercial roofing and the HVAC system itself. If you move your HVAC unit to the roof incorrectly, it can cause damage to your roofing system. And after installation, it should be a part of your regular roof inspection and maintenance. 

Read more

/by
, , ,

Commercial Roof Inspection: Do it Yourself or Hire a Professional?

Regular commercial roof inspection helps avoid an early roof replacement

Commercial building owners have a lot on their plate, and sometimes regular roof maintenance falls to the wayside. But, making sure your commercial roof is in good condition is the first step in ensuring safety for everyone inside. 

Annual roof maintenance doesn’t have to mean footing the bill for costly roofing expenditures every year, especially if you’re being proactive about preventative maintenance and commercial roof inspections for peace of mind.  Read more

/by
, ,

Components of a Roof Asset Management Program

Roof inspection as part of a Roof Asset Management program.

A comprehensive roof asset management program can greatly extend the life cycle of your commercial roof system. Not only will it help you to understand the present roof condition, but it will also allow you to anticipate repairs and maintenance. (Knowledge of such important things helps you plan for those expenditures and prevent your roof from becoming a safety hazard to employees and customers.) Let’s look at the most important parts of a good roof asset management program.  Read more

/by
,

Characteristics of Built-Up Roofing

Roofers applying a Built-Up roof system.

Built-up roofing, also known as BUR, is one of the most commonly utilized roofing systems for flat roof commercial buildings. BUR is a roofing method that has been in use for well over a century, and it provides excellent waterproofing protection due to the use of coal tar and bitumen. 

A built-up roofing system is typically constructed of alternating layers of reinforcing material and bitumen, covered with a finishing layer of aggregate material, such as gravel or small stones. 

First, a base sheet is fastened to the roof’s insulation or cover board. A layer of bitumen is then applied to the base sheet which binds with the next layer of reinforcing felt, also referred to as a ply sheet. Ply sheets are heavy-duty reinforcing fabrics strengthened with either organic material or fiberglass. Multiple coatings of bitumen and felt are applied, and after the desired number of layers have been placed, a mineral-reinforced cap sheet or aggregate material is used for the top layer. There are three main types of BUR systems:

Read more

/by

What’s the Best Time of Year for Commercial Roof Replacement?

Fall is commonly seen as the best time of year for commercial roof replacement.

Holding off maintenance because you’re wondering what the best time of the year is for a complete commercial roof replacement? While each season has their own pros and cons, the best time to schedule your roof replacement is when you need it! Don’t wait for a better season if a replacement is needed right away. 

If you have the luxury to plan and schedule your roof replacement though, here are the seasons ranked from worst to best to get that new roof you’ve been considering for your business or commercial space. 

Read more

/by

Why is Commercial Metal Roof Maintenance So Important?

Managing roofing assets for multiple facilities can delay full roof replacement.

Get the most out of your metal roof! Commercial metal roofs are known to last over half a century, but don’t take this for granted! A poorly maintained metal roof will deteriorate much faster than those that receive regular care and maintenance. 

Metal roofing systems are proven to last longer than your average shingle or flat roof, but still need the same attention. Whether you are considering the switch to a metal roof for your commercial building or have one already, see why regular maintenance is crucial. Read more

/by