Owners of commercial buildings must always stay alert to the condition of their roofs. If a roof is not in good condition, it could harm your business. Customers and clients will not be impressed if they see water leaking from the ceiling. This article answers some of the most frequently asked questions about roofing for commercial buildings.
Should the Roof Be Replaced or Repaired?
When you discover that your roof has problems that must be addressed, the next decision to make is whether you need to repair the roof or replace it. The answer depends on various factors, of which one of the most important is the extent of the damage. The general rule of thumb used by industry experts is that if the damage covers more than 25 percent of the roof it's better to replace it.
Another point to consider is the whether or not you intend to sell the building in the near future. For example, if you plan to sell your building within a couple of years, then making repairs that bring the roof in line with your local building codes is a reasonable solution. If you are planning to keep the building for an extended period of time, then going ahead and installing a new roof with the latest up-to-date materials could be the better choice.
Can You Re-Roof a Commercial Roof?
When a new roofing system is installed over the old one, the project is known as re-roofing. In some cases, a re-roof might be a good option for a damaged roof. Re-roofing can help save you money because the old roof does not have to be removed. A re-roof project also takes less time to install than a conventional replacement.
Two key points must be kept in mind, however, when it comes to doing a re-roof. You must have only one layer of materials on your existing roof. If you have two layers, a re-roof is not allowed. Also, if the roof insulation, which is the underlayment that supports the exterior roofing material, is not in good shape, then a re-roof is not recommended.
How Long Will A Commercial Roof Last?
The lifespan of a commercial roof depends on a variety of factors, with the roofing material being one of the most important. Ethylene propylene diene terpolymer (EPDM) roofs last between 22 and 35 years, while thermoplastic polyolefin (TPO) roofs last 22 to 30 years. Metal roofing lasts up to 45 years, while polyvinyl chloride (PVC) roofs last 20 to 30 years.
Other important factors include the roof slope, whether the roof was installed properly and has adequate ventilation, the climate in your region, and whether regular maintenance is performed.
To learn more, contact a commercial roofing contractor near you.