A reputable commercial roofing contractor will provide a clear, detailed scope of work in their proposal. This will allow you to compare apples to apples when evaluating competing bids.

Make sure your contractor is a member of a group buying organization. This can reduce your project costs by negotiating bulk purchases of roofing materials with manufacturers. Check this out!

Installation

A commercial roof is a much more complex structure than a residential one, which requires a roofing business with extensive experience with a wide variety of roof types. Commercial roofs must be constructed with durable materials to protect the structural integrity of the building, while also incorporating elements like ventilation and air conditioning.

Flat and low-slope commercial buildings often use single-ply membranes, modified bitumen, or built-up roofing systems, while higher-sloped structures may utilize metal panels or shingles (ceramic tile, natural slate, wood shake, asphalt, molded metal, or shingle). It is important that the proper drainage system is in place to prevent water puddling, as this can degrade roofing materials much faster than if they are not exposed to standing water for long periods of time.

When deciding on a roofing contractor for your commercial project, it is a good idea to check online reviews and ratings. You will be able to quickly spot which businesses have the best reputation for quality work and which have extensive experience with various commercial roofing projects.

Repair

Your commercial roof does more than protect your building from bad weather; it also cuts energy bills, helps maintain employee safety, and enhances the business’s aesthetic. However, roofing issues can occur that can cause costly repairs and reduce your roof’s lifespan.

A reliable roofing contractor will start the repair process by doing a full inspection of your roof’s interior and exterior systems. They’ll look for visible signs of damage like missing shingles, curled shingles, impact damage to single-membrane roofing structures, and damaged flashing. They’ll also check for ponding water on the roof, which can lead to structural damage inside the building.

Leaks are common in commercial roofs and if left unchecked can wreak havoc on the entire structure of your building. Unaddressed leaks can result in expensive damage to insulation and drywall, and increase your heating and cooling bills. It’s important to get roof leaks repaired right away to avoid costly repairs or even a complete replacement.

Replacement

Getting a new commercial roof is a significant investment. Make sure you work with a roofing contractor that offers warranties to help protect your investment. Ask if they have different levels of coverage that can be tailored to your specific needs.

You should also ask what roofing system they recommend for your building and location. Roofing professionals keep up to date on the latest advancements in materials and are knowledgeable on what roofing system would best suit your business needs. For example, PVC roofing and metal roofing are great choices for businesses as they have high resistance to temperature extremes and improve energy efficiency.

Another major difference between residential and commercial roofs is the design. Commercial roofs are typically much larger than residential ones and require different materials to support their structure and withstand weather conditions. For example, flat roofs are more durable than sloped ones. They are also easier for roofing contractors to access and can be installed faster.

Maintenance

A commercial building requires a lot of maintenance, from negotiating leases to cleaning and managing utilities. It’s important to address issues as they arise, including roof repairs, as neglecting a commercial building’s roofing can lead to leaks and costly damage.

A professional roofing company can help keep a business running smoothly by providing regular inspections and quick repair services. They will be able to identify issues and recommend repairs before they become major problems.

During an inspection, they will look for holes in the membrane, cracks or ridges developing in seams, rotting of structural components, and deflected pipe and equipment supports. They’ll also check drains, scuppers, and gutters to make sure they aren’t blocked with debris, clogged, or overflowing. They’ll also trim any nearby trees and plants to prevent branches, leaves, or limbs from falling on the roof. Then, they’ll clean the roof surfaces and gutters to remove dirt, debris, and moss. This will help protect the structure and extend its lifespan. Check this out for more details.