Types of Commercial Flat Roof Repair

Today, we’re diving into the world of commercial flat roof repair. If you own a commercial property, you know how important it is to keep your roof in tip-top shape. After all, it’s the first line of defense against the elements and protects everything inside. But what happens when your flat roof needs repairs? Don’t worry, we’ve got you covered.

5 Types of Commercial Flat Roof Repair

1. Shingle Repair

Shingles are the first contact point for weather conditions and need to be maintained properly to ensure their effectiveness. There are various common problems that shingles can cause. One of these is granule loss. With shingles losing their granules, water can easily seep in, as the granules help move water from the eavestrough to the downspout. If you notice cracks, curls, or missing shingles, they could indicate a problem. This means that the decking is not receiving adequate coverage, allowing water to seep into the wood and cause rot.

Damaged shingles are also prone to leakage, and exposed areas can cause water to leak in from the inside if these shingles are lifted. Additionally, it is important to pay attention to valleys on your roof, as they tend to wear faster than other areas because they absorb the majority of rainwater and channel it to the gutters. Neglecting these areas can lead to leakage, which can be dangerous.

2. Flashing Repairs

Professional roofing contractors use galvanized or zinc alloy to seal areas around chimneys, dormers, and walls when laying a new roof. This flashing helps prevent water from seeping into your home. However, sometimes flashing can lift due to a missed seal, which can create an opening for water to enter.

Substandard workmanship can also lead to costly repairs down the road. It’s important to hire experienced and skilled roofing contractors to ensure that your roof is properly installed and maintained, and that any potential issues are addressed promptly.

3. Gutter Maintenance and Repairs

Rain gutters are installed at the edge of your roof to help move water away from your home’s foundation. However, they can also collect debris such as leaves and twigs, which can cause them to clog. This can lead to excess weight and even freezing during the winter months. To avoid costly repairs or water spilling over the gutters, it’s important for building owners to maintain clean gutters. All Star Roofing recommends cleaning rain gutters at least twice a year. This should be done in conjunction with a regular roof inspection to ensure that your entire roofing system is in good condition. By keeping your gutters clear of debris, you can help ensure that they function properly and protect your home from water damage.

4. Commercial Flat Roof Leak Repair

When a commercial roofing system leaks, the signs are usually quite obvious. Water puddles on the floors or streams of water are clear indicators of trouble. If you notice water stains or other visible signs of water damage, it’s important to take action and address the issue promptly.

After identifying the problem, it’s recommended to seek the assistance of a professional commercial roofing contractor to help you fix it. They have the knowledge and expertise to properly diagnose the issue and provide an effective solution. By addressing roofing problems quickly and efficiently, you can prevent further damage to your property

5. Repair Due to Poor Ventilation

Poor ventilation can cause damage to commercial roofing systems, and may require repairs to be made. When an attic heats up due to insufficient ventilation, the heat is vented through the roof. This can cause roofing materials to become damaged and degrade over time, leading to leaks and other issues. Additionally, excess heat can cause water to turn into mold and algae, creating a biohazard in your building and increasing costs.

To prevent these issues, it’s important to ensure that your commercial roofing system has proper ventilation. If you suspect that poor ventilation has caused damage to your roofing system, it’s recommended to contact a professional roofing contractor to assess the situation and make any necessary repairs.

Benefits of a Flat Roof that Lasts

A long-lasting flat roof can bring several benefits, one of which is saving money. When choosing a roofing material, it’s important to consider durability to avoid the cost of maintenance and repairs associated with substandard roofing.

Money-Saving

Minor roof repairs typically cost between $150 and $400, depending on the amount of time contractors spend fixing the roof. However, major or intermediate repairs can cost between $1,000 and $3,000, which can significantly affect your maintenance budget.

Investing in a flat roof that lasts can save you money in the long run. While it may be expensive to install initially, costing around $15,000 including labor and roofing material, the long-term benefits are substantial.

In addition to saving money on maintenance and repairs, a long-lasting flat roof can also improve your property’s energy efficiency. Flat roofs can accommodate solar panels, allowing you to harness the power of the sun to reduce your energy bills.

A flat roof also provides additional outdoor space for activities such as gardening, outdoor dining, or relaxing. You can install a green roof or a rooftop garden to enhance the aesthetic appeal of your property and create a peaceful outdoor space.

Reduced Disruption

In any business, time is a valuable resource. To achieve goals, meet deadlines, and ensure employee productivity, it’s important to minimize disruptions. Roof maintenance and repairs can cause significant foot traffic and noise pollution, leading to distractions and interruptions.

Unaddressed roofing problems can also lead to irreparable damage, which may require the closure of entire departments. In extreme cases, severe weather conditions can weaken commercial flat roofs, leading to infrastructure instability and the cancellation of holidays or events.

Ignoring internal leaks can also weaken the roof and ceiling structure, potentially causing costly damage to equipment and facilities. By investing in a long-lasting flat roof, you can minimize the need for repairs and maintenance, reducing disruption to your business operations.

Long-term Investment

Just like investing in advanced and efficient digital equipment for your accounting department, investing in a long-lasting flat roof can also be a wise decision for your business. It can help you save on infrastructure maintenance costs and utilities through improved insulation, giving you the resources to expand your business and compete with others in your industry.

By choosing a low-maintenance and durable flat roof, you can minimize the need for repairs and withstand severe weather conditions without incurring significant costs. This, in turn, can help you allocate your resources more efficiently and invest in other areas of your business.

Imagine having a commercial flat roof that can last for 30-50 years with minimal maintenance and repair costs. This can result in significant savings over time and help your business remain competitive in the long run.

5 Long-Term Flat Roof Types

When it comes to commercial properties, the type of roofing used can make a big difference.

1. Metal Panel Roofs

Metal materials have been used for centuries due to their durability and longevity. Also, metal roofs made of aluminum or stainless steel can withstand the impact of metals and stones, making them ideal for commercial properties. They can last up to 45-50 years and can support a person up to four feet, which is helpful for maintenance.

These roofs are also slope-friendly, allowing for proper drainage. To ensure watertight protection, a special sealant is applied to each seam’s edges. This prevents leakage and improves property insulation, making it an energy-efficient option for commercial buildings.

2. BUR/Tar & Gravel Roofs

Built-Up Roofing (BUR), made of tar and gravel materials, can be a costly roofing system, but it is known to last up to 50 years. The layers of sandwiched tar give it its strength. On average, five layers will provide excellent insulation and weather protection, as well as ensure a tight property seal. Depending on the weather conditions, some contractors may recommend up to 20 layers.

Some contractors may choose to use asphalt instead of tar, as it is just as effective for roof decks and bridge construction.

3. Asphalt Roofs

Asphalt is a long-lasting material with a lifespan of more than 50 years. However, if used in heavy traffic areas like roads and highways, it may only last up to 10 years.

Asphalt roofing is a popular choice for industrial and hotel properties due to its durability. It typically costs between $1 to $10 per square foot, making it an affordable option. When applied in a single layer over a flat roof, it is even cheaper to install. However, labor costs for installing asphalt in a built-up roof system may be slightly higher. Nonetheless, asphalt roofs are highly efficient and durable, making them a great choice for commercial flat roofs.

4. Modified Bitumen in Two-Ply Form

For commercial flat roofing types, contractors typically use a torch to adhere the modified bitumen material to its fiber base. They may also use hot or cold mopping tar and asphalt adhesives. Property owners can choose from three types of surfaces: foil laminate, mineral, and smooth. The modified bitumen material is also coated with ceramic, which provides protection from UV rays and airtight insulation.

While two-ply systems are more costly, they can prolong the lifespan of commercial flat roof types by up to 40 years. Two-ply modified bitumen roofing can reduce or even eliminate the need for maintenance and repairs, making it a cost-effective option for property owners in the long run.

5. Single-Ply Synthetic Membranes (TPO/PVC and EPDM)

Thermoplastic Olefin (TPO), Polyvinyl Chloride (PVC), and Ethylene Propylene Diene Monomer (EPDM) are all excellent options for commercial flat roofing types that contractors highly recommend. These materials are cost-effective, easy to install and have a lifespan of 30-50 years.

TPO and PVC roofs are capable of blocking UV rays, while EPDM can be colored to improve its UV-ray-blocking capabilities and insulation properties. Additionally, these materials are environmentally friendly as they are made from recycled materials, especially EPDM.

Need Help With Your Commercial Roof?

Don’t let commercial flat roof repair stress you out any longer! All Star Roofing is here to help. Our team of roofing experts is located in Florida and services areas from Hernando County to Pinellas County. We specialize in commercial roof repairs of all kinds and we’re here to help you get your roof back in great shape.

Don’t wait until the problem gets worse. Contact us today and let us take care of all your commercial roof repair needs. With our expertise and commitment to quality, you can rest easy knowing that your roof is in good hands.

CALL US TODAY! 813-672-4743

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