Commercial Roof Repair: Navigating Common Challenges and Effective Solutions

Commercial Roof Repair

Commercial Roof Repair: Navigating Common Challenges and Effective Solutions

There are more than 130,000 roofers in the United States. With the growth in development, commercial roofing alone continues to grow. There is a lot of competition in the industry, which means businesses have a difficult choice to make.

One of the things that sets good roofing contractors apart from mediocre ones is the ability to navigate commercial roofing challenges. Experts will have experience with a variety of situations and be able to address or avoid them, when possible.

Below are several common commercial roof repair obstacles and common solutions to them. Keep reading to find out what you can expect from a quality roofing contractor and how they can benefit your project.

Assessing Damage

When carrying out commercial roof repair, one of the most important aspects is assessing roof damage. That is because it can result from many different causes. These include storm damage or other impacts, as well as normal wear and tear.

You want commercial roofers who can determine the extent of the damage as well as the underlying causes. For instance, you might assume that leaks or increased humidity are the result of damage. But they could stem from improper roof installation.

In these scenarios, skilled roofing contractors may look for other areas with similar deficiencies. This will let them put together a plan to stop other roofing problems before they arise, in addition to fixing any damage.

Addressing Standing Water

A roofing challenge particular to commercial roofs is the presence of standing water. This can result from damage to the roof or drainage systems. It is vital to address water pooling–otherwise, it could lead to leaks and water damage to the underlying structure.

Experienced roofers will be able to quickly determine the causes of standing water. Whether it relates to the structure of the roof or the drainage system, they will be able to address the problem before it worsens.

Acquiring the Appropriate Roofing Materials

Determining the right materials for repairing your roof is another important goal. The challenge lies in trying to balance things like energy efficiency, durability, and aesthetic appeal. This means there are a lot of choices to make among types of roofs.

Thermoplastic polyolefin, or “TPO,” is a white single-ply roofing membrane. It provides superior UV reflectivity, which makes it great for energy efficiency. It also is quite inexpensive and easy to install, which helps keep labor costs down.

Ethylene propylene diene terpolymer (EPDM) roofing is also a single-ply roofing membrane. It is made from similar rubber materials used in automotive tires, which makes it both durable and a good insulator. Its heat-trapping ability makes it ideal for colder climates but less so for very warm ones.

Commercial metal roofing is another popular option. It provides one of the strongest roof surfaces and can be less expensive than other roof material options. There are a lot of metal roofing options to choose from, including standing seam and R-panel metal roofs.

You have other options, such as “green” roofs, which support vegetative growth. These have become increasingly popular for their environmental benefits, including improved air quality and combating “heat islands.” A prominent commercial roofing expert can help you decide if this option is right for your project.

Membrane Shrinkage or Expansion

Over time, extreme temperatures and the sun’s UV rays can cause certain roofing materials to expand or contract. Either can cause cracks in the joints of the roofing system, which can lead to leaks. It can also cause flashing to pull away from the walls.

There are several ways to address roofing membranes that have contracted or expanded. Which one is appropriate depends on the severity of the issue.

In most cases, contractors will need to remove the flashing system that is affected by the issue. Depending on the condition of the existing membrane, they may replace the affected areas. In other situations, they may recommend replacing the material with one, like EPDM, that is resistant to these effects.

Scheduling Around Inclement Weather

Unpredictable weather can be a major obstacle to a roof repair project. Roofing contractors must often deal with heavy rain or snow. Extreme heat can also impact the working conditions of personnel and have the potential to disrupt a project timeline.

This is one of the main reasons why you should go with a professional local roofing contractor. While no one can control the weather, experienced roofers will understand the weather patterns in your area and better anticipate how they can impact timelines.

This will let them plan for the unforeseeable. It means that you have a better chance of meeting project installation goals, no matter what happens.

Considering Particular Roof Uses

As mentioned, roofing companies are a dime a dozen. You can find someone to install a commercial roof, but that does not mean they will do it well or–more importantly–based on your particular needs or goals.

For instance, the HVAC systems of many commercial buildings are located on the roof. This likely means increased foot traffic, which can damage your roof over time. If you have a lot of trees around your building, you likely have an increased risk of falling limbs and collection of debris.

Experienced contractors will take these factors into account when determining construction or repair details. These factors, unique to your building, also can help them formulate better roofing maintenance plans. All this translates to a longer lifespan for your roof and better protection for what lies underneath it.

Find Commercial Roof Repair Near You

Now that you understand some of the common commercial roof repair challenges and the best ways to address them, you are ready to move forward. Qualified roofers will be able to further advise you in finding the best solutions to any obstacle you might encounter.

Eagle Rivet Roofing is dedicated to providing superior commercial roofing solutions to property managers and business owners. Our staff of field technicians, project managers, estimators, and support staff will ensure ample attention is given to every aspect of your project. Reach out to us today for a free quote.

Commercial Roof Repair (FAQs)

Q1: What Does Commercial Roof Repair Involve?

Commercial roof repair encompasses various tasks aimed at fixing issues with the roofing system of commercial buildings, including addressing leaks, damage, and maintenance.

Q2: Why Is Timely Commercial Roof Repair Important?

Timely commercial roof repair is essential to prevent further damage, protect the building’s interior, and maintain a safe and functional commercial space.

Q3: What Are Common Signs That Commercial Roof Repair is Needed?

Common signs indicating the need for commercial roof repair include water leaks, visible damage such as cracks or holes, sagging roof areas, and decreased energy efficiency.

Q4: How Can I Find Reliable Contractors for Commercial Roof Repair?

To find reliable contractors for commercial roof repair, conduct thorough research, read reviews, check references, and consider their experience in handling commercial roofing projects.

Q5: What Types of Materials Are Used in Commercial Roof Repair?

Commercial roof repair may involve various materials, including TPO, EPDM, metal roofing, and traditional roofing materials like asphalt shingles or modified bitumen. The choice depends on factors like climate, budget, and specific project requirements.

These questions cover essential aspects of commercial roof repair, helping you better understand the process and make informed decisions for your roofing needs.

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