Whether you manage or own a brick-and-mortar shop, hotel, resort, or government building, the roof is vital to the property’s structural integrity. Commercial roofing and waterproofing services help keep the structure in excellent condition for years by preventing water damage and ensuring the roofing materials don’t degrade prematurely.
Unfortunately, some commercial property owners have little experience dealing with roofing businesses. As a result, they may not know when to seek professional assistance or waterproofing solutions for their building. Here, we answer common questions about commercial roofing to help you be more informed about your roofing system and upcoming projects.
1. What Roofing Materials Are Best for a Commercial Property?
The most suitable materials for a commercial building will depend on the property and its location. Environmental elements like severe storms and excessive sunshine can degrade some materials more quickly than others, especially if they don’t have a proper installation.
For instance, if a business is in a location prone to wildfires, it is best to install metal roofing. Metal roofs are fire-resistant and long-lasting. However, an asphalt shingle roof may be best for a roofing project in a colder region with a modest budget.
Pitch is also a deciding factor. A flat roof has completely different options available from a sloped roof.
2. How Long Will the Roofing Project Take?
The time it takes to complete a roofing project depends on several factors, including:
- The scope of the project
- The weather
- Roof size
- Waterproofing solutions
- Roofing materials
- Permits
When you schedule a professional roof assessment from a reputable commercial roofing contractor, they can give you an estimated timeline for your project’s completion. However, you likely won’t have to close your business while the roofing project is underway.
3. How Can You Tell if Your Business Needs a New Roof?
Unless your property has extensive structural damage due to severe weather, you likely won’t know if you need a new roof without a professional evaluation. If you schedule commercial roof inspections, the contractor will examine all aspects of the roofing system. Based on their findings, they will take note of repairable damages and provide the best long-term and short-term solutions.
The commercial roofing and waterproofing contractor may recommend a roof replacement if repairs are not the best option. It’s best to schedule roof inspections annually. However, you might need assistance sooner if you notice signs of roof degradation, such as roof leaks, mold inside the property, or a sagging roof.
4. Does the Commercial Roofing Company Need to Tear Down My Roof to Install a New One?
In some situations, a commercial roofing contractor can install a new roof over an old one; this service is called re-roofing. However, it’s only ideal if your building has a single roof in great shape.
Unfortunately, Florida law only permits two roofing layers on a building. If your commercial property has more than one layer, a complete roof tear-off is necessary to ensure the new roof won’t put undue weight and stress on the building. You also cannot re-roof a damaged, unstable, or waterlogged roof.
5. How Much Will the New Roof Cost?
It’s impossible to accurately estimate or quote a commercial roof replacement price without a professional assessment because every roofing project differs. Material prices also fluctuate.
Here are other factors that contribute to the total cost of a commercial roof replacement:
- Roof warranty type
- Roof access
- Roof size
- Waterproofing option
- Existing roof condition
- Insulation and membrane selections
- Installer
When working with a reputable roofing contractor with decades of experience, you can be confident your commercial roof is in excellent hands. The roofing company will evaluate the structure, generate a roof survey report, and help you determine the budget to install an ideal system.
6. How Long Will the New Roof Last?
All commercial systems should last for years. However, the exact lifespan of any roof depends on the roofing material. Here are common commercial roofing materials and their lifespans:
- Built-Up: Up to 15 years
- Single-Ply Membrane EPDM: Up to 25 years
- Spray Polyurethane Foam: Up to 50 years
- Metal: Up to 45 years
- Single-Ply Membrane TPO: Up to 20 years
Maintenance also plays an integral factor in commercial roof longevity. Your system is likely to last longer with routine maintenance and repair.
MooreCorp Roofing Inc. has decades of experience repairing, installing, and maintaining residential and commercial roofing systems. As a family-run company, our commercial roofing contractors possess the highest caliber of customer care and service for every job and always put the client first. Our certified team commits itself to provide the highest quality commercial roofing and waterproofing services.
Call (239) 399-6000 to request a free estimate from MooreCorp Roofing Inc.