Tag: roof replacement

Commercial Roofing FAQs: Replace or Recover your Roof?

Posted on by Kathleen Maxwell

When your commercial roof starts leaking, it’s time to consider whether you need to replace or recover your roof. In this installment of our commercial roofing FAQ series, we look at the differences between roof replacement and roof recovery and give commercial building owners some helpful questions to ask their commercial roofing contractors.

Q: What is a roof replacement?

A: A commercial roof replacement requires a contractor to demolish the entire existing roof(s) down to the deck. Roofers pull off the membrane and underlying materials down to the roof deck before constructing a new roof in its place. In some cases, roof deck replacements may be required if it is rotted or rusted. Because a roof replacement requires demolition, construction, and the purchase of new materials, it is the most expensive option for commercial building owners. All commercial roofs will eventually need replacement as wear and tear will degrade all roofing materials over time.

Q: What is a roof recover?

A: A roof recover (or restoration) is a stopgap solution that can extend the life of a commercial roof without requiring a complete replacement. There are different types of roof recoveries, but most involve putting a new roof membrane over the top of an existing roof system. For a roof with leaks, the new membrane will make it watertight again. It is important to ensure the existing structure can withstand a new roof system on top.

Q: When is it possible to recover a commercial roof?

A: Not all roofs are eligible for recovery. Only roofs that still have intact decks, dry insulation, and have maintained their structural integrity can be recovered properly. Trying to put a new roof membrane on a compromised roofing surface will only lead to disaster. Roof recoveries are most likely to be successful when a roofing contractor intervenes very soon after a leak starts, when it may be possible to prevent moisture intrusion into the roof’s structural elements. Roofs with many or longstanding leaks will likely need to be replaced.

Q: What are the advantages and disadvantages of a roof recover?

A: Roof recoveries are significantly more affordable than a roof replacement. It requires fewer materials, and therefore, less labor from roofing contractors. Most roof recoveries can extend the commercial roof’s life as a whole. Still, a roof recovery is not a replacement. Recovery may not allow building owners to make significant changes or improvements to their buildings.

Q: What are the advantages and disadvantages of a roof replacement?

A: Roof replacements are expensive, time-consuming, and usually more disruptive to business. Despite these downsides, roof replacements are often unavoidable. If the structural integrity of a roof deck is in question, a roof replacement is the only way to ensure the building remains functional. Choosing a roof replacement is also a way to upgrade your roof with new materials, like better insulation or a new design.

Q: Won’t I eventually need to replace my roof anyway?

A: Eventually, yes. Many city codes only allow for 2 roof systems structure on a particular building. This depends on how much weight the existing structure can hold.

If you’re ready to find out if your roof is eligible for recovery or replacement, contact Maxwell Roofing & Sheet Metal today. Our team is experienced in both roof replacement and recovery, and we are here to help you.

Commercial Roofing FAQs: When is it Time to Replace Your Roof?

Posted on by Kathleen Maxwell

Knowing if and when to replace your commercial roof can be a challenge for building owners and property managers. Most commercial roofs have a lifespan of 15-25 years. However, this lifespan can sometimes be shortened by weather damage, improper installation, or lack of maintenance. Eventually, every commercial building will require a roof replacement.

At Maxwell Roofing, we’ve helped our clients navigate that decision for nearly 70 years. This experience allows us to assess the condition of your roof and provide the best course of action based on your specific needs. After hundreds of conversations over the years, we’ve learned some of the common questions that building owners and property managers have about replacing their roofs.

Here we answer some common questions commercial building owners have about a roof replacement.

Q: How long will my commercial roof last?

A: Commercial roof systems can last anywhere between 10 and 40 years, depending on the type of roof. On average, your roof will last for 20 years if it is well taken care of.

Q: What could impact the longevity of my commercial roof?

A: While regular maintenance and proactive care is the best way to extend the life of a commercial roof, extreme weather conditions are also a big factor in how long your roof will last.

Q: How do I know I need a roof replacement?

A: Most businesses will replace their roofs when they start leaking regularly. Recurring leaks are usually the clearest sign that a roof may be damaged beyond repair. Water damage from persistent leaks can also cause damage to other parts of the building so it’s essential to contact a professional roofer as soon as a leak is discovered.

Q: Can my roof be repaired instead of replaced?

A: Maybe. Roof repairs are possible with certain types of damage. Commercial roofers can patch leaks in some cases, but as leaks and repairs become more frequent, they become less effective long-term. A trusted roofing partner will always try to find a way to repair your roof before suggesting a replacement.

Q: Will my roof warranty cover the replacement?

A: If components of your roof were improperly installed or damaged, it’s possible an active roof warranty may cover replacing some parts of your roof. But warranties don’t last forever and won’t cover the wear and tear that roofs experience over their lifetimes. If you notice damage early on in your roof’s life, it’s important to have a professional examine the problem as soon as possible to be sure that you can take advantage of the warranty while it’s active.

Q: How much will my commercial roof replacement cost?

A: Commercial roof replacement is expensive, but the final price depends on the scope of work and the size of the roof. Businesses should expect to determine the scope of work and budget ahead of time to be able to afford a roof replacement down the line.

Q: How do I get started with the commercial roof replacement process?

A: Contact your trusted commercial roofing partner for an inspection and the proposal development process.

If you’re ready to get started with your commercial roof replacement, our team at Maxwell Roofing & Sheet Metal is ready to help! Contact us today to learn more.

What Time of Year is Best for a Roof Replacement?

Posted on by Kathleen Maxwell

With milder temperatures and less rain, fall is undoubtedly the best time of year for a roof replacement. If you’re preparing your budget for a big roofing job, here are a few reasons you should consider starting the commercial roof replacement process sometime between August and November.

1. Avoid weather delays

Extreme summer heat and frequent spring rain storms can force work crews to delay a project. In the fall, temperatures are relatively cool, and rain is much less frequent, making weather delays rare. The average temperatures in fall make work easier and more efficient. It’s also generally a more convenient season for tenants of a commercial building. 

2. Repair damage from summer

Summer is one of the most damaging months for a commercial roof. Sun and heat can crack or fade the roof surface, pushing a roof that’s already aging or damaged over the edge. When leaves, large branches, and other debris fall on a roof in autumn, it can further weaken roofs that have taken a beating during the summer months. The best fall roofing protection is to get a replacement when a commercial roof is no longer effectively protecting your building.  

3. Prepare your building for winter

If your commercial roof is already on its last leg, it’s best to get it fixed before the cold winter months set in. Without a functioning roof, winter weather events can do serious damage to your building. If your roof is compromised, your building may not stay dry in the winter, and your interior spaces may not be insulated from the cold. Mold remediation and huge heating bills can add up to a much greater cost than replacing a roof when it’s ready.

4. Streamline your maintenance schedule.

Because of the danger winter weather can present to commercial roofs, fall is also considered the best month for maintenance, cleaning, and inspections. Getting a roof replacement this time of the year sets your business up for the ideal annual maintenance schedule. 

If you’re hoping to get your roof replaced before winter sets in, contact Maxwell Roofing & Sheet Metal today. Our team is ready to help with your roof replacement.

How to Get Started With a Roof Replacement Project

Posted on by Kathleen Maxwell

Every roof, no matter how well maintained, reaches a point where it will need to be replaced. For building owners and facility managers, knowing when and how to start a roof replacement project isn’t always straightforward.

Here at Maxwell Roofing & Sheet Metal, we’ve put together a guide on the commercial roof replacement process. We’ll help you determine when to replace your commercial roof, how to set a budget and research contractors, and how to kick off your roof replacement. While taking on a roof construction project can feel overwhelming, it can be as easy as taking four simple steps: 

1. Determine if your commercial roof needs replacement.

How do you know if your building’s roof needs a replacement? The age of the building is your first clue to determining if it’s time to replace the roof. Each type of roofing has a different expected lifespan, usually between 15 and 25 years. Building owners should track their roof’s age and condition in order to plan for a roof replacement project. If your roof is over twelve years old, it’s time to start considering your options. After you’ve crossed the 15-year mark, or if you’ve sustained major damage, you should begin actively researching contractors to have your building evaluated. While you’re planning for a roof replacement, pay extra attention to the function and aesthetics of your building’s roof. Remember: even if your roof is relatively new, water damage or unexpected storms can accelerate your need for a roof replacement. 

2. Begin planning for your commercial roof replacement. 

Planning for a commercial roof replacement begins long before it’s time to take action. Commercial roofs can require a substantial investment, and building owners need to plan their budgets ahead of time. When you’re saving for a new roof, see if a contractor can provide information on what roofing materials would be best for your building. When you’re preparing for a roof replacement, it’s also a good time to consider architectural features or energy efficiency upgrades you’d like to include along with your new roof. Planning these elements ahead of time will help you determine an accurate estimate for your roof replacement. 

3. Interview and settle on a roofing contractor.

Before choosing a contractor for a roof replacement project, building owners should discuss the project with top-rated roofing companies in the area. When selecting companies to provide a proposal, it’s important to only pick contractors who are licensed and insured, have a strong reputation, and can offer past client recommendations. While it can be tempting to simply choose the lowest-priced bid, building owners should consider the quality scope of work, schedule, and integrity of the company. A higher-quality roof will last longer and require fewer repairs, saving you and your building more money over time.

4. Kick off your roof replacement project.

Once you’ve contracted a roofer, it’s time to get the project underway. Commercial roofers will be able to work with businesses to ensure that there’s as little disruption as possible when scheduling. 

If this guide has helped and you’re ready to get started with your roof replacement project, contact Maxwell Roofing & Sheet Metal today to schedule a consultation.

When to Replace the Roof on Your Industrial Building

Posted on by Kathleen Maxwell

Industrial building roof replacement or commercial roof replacement are both expensive undertakings. Yet there comes a point in every roof’s life when replacement is absolutely necessary. In this blog, we will look at the signs that an industrial roof is wearing out and go over options for replacing it. 

Roof Lifespan

How long a roof lasts depends on how well it is taken care of, starting with its installation. Without preventative maintenance, an industrial roof will wear out long before its expected lifespan. Here are some expected durability timeframes for well-cared-for roofs:

Standing-seam metal roofs: 30-40 years

Single-ply roofing: 15-20 years

Modified bitumen and built-up roofs: 20-30 years

Once your roof starts approaching the end of its lifespan, it’s important to keep an eye out for other signs that it may be deteriorating.

The Four Signs It’s Time for an Industrial Building Roof Replacement

Well-maintained roofs will last for decades, but once they start exhibiting these problems, it’s time for a replacement.

  • Persistent leaks: If a leak continues even after a repair, then it may be time for a replacement. Any leaks that have infiltrated the insulation cannot be fixed and will require roofers to cut out the insulation and replace it for proper repair. 
  • A large number of leaks: If a roof has many different leaks, it’s likely a sign that part of the roof is compromised. If your building is experiencing many leaks in different parts of the building, it’s time for a new roof. 
  • Visible damage: Micro-perforations, or splits, in a single-ply roof are signs of membrane deterioration. When this occurs, it’s best to consider a full replacement, as repairs are costly and less effective.
  • Blistering: Water damage to a roof can cause gas to build up under the roofing membrane and cause blistering. This type of damage is a sign that the roof is aging, and it’s time to begin discussing replacement. 

What To Do if Your Industrial Roof Needs Replacement

Commercial roof replacement costs can be daunting, but a roof replacement can be a significant improvement for a building. A new roof will improve the look and safety of your building and can even create energy efficiency savings on your energy bill. If you’re ready to learn more about industrial roof replacement, contact Maxwell Roofing & Sheet Metal today. Our team is here and ready to help.

Property Managers: Should You Replace Your Roof?

Posted on by Kathleen Maxwell

Roof replacement can, no doubt, be expensive, making it tempting for building owners to wait as long as possible to replace their roofs. But, even the most well-constructed roofs will eventually need to be replaced. For building owners and property managers who may be questioning their roof’s lifespan, here are a few tips to help you know when it’s time to replace your roof and why it’s important.

Why replace a roof? 

Roofs are not just a cap on a building. They provide integral structural support and protect the rest of the building from damage. If a roof isn’t functioning properly, it can put the rest of the building at serious risk of damage. 

For property managers, failing to replace a damaged roof can endanger those inside the building. Damaged commercial roofs can leak and destroy property inside a building. Roofs in serious neglect can even collapse. At the end of a roof’s life, repairs can be extremely costly with little reward. It may just be delaying the inevitable and result in spending the budget on a short-term repair.

Certain structural problems necessitate an immediate roof replacement.

Not all roofing problems require a complete replacement, but there are a few problems that indicate the need for an immediate roof replacement:

  • Wet insulation – If your roof system has water trapped in it, there’s no way to remove it. The only way to fix the roof is to tear out the insulation and replace it.
  • Recurring leaks – Many leaks can be repaired, but a persistent roof leak is usually a sign of a chronic problem that can only be fixed with a roof replacement. 
  • Many leaks – If you are experiencing a large number of leaks every time it rains, it’s likely that your roof is beyond repair.

There are also other reasons to replace your roof.

Even if your roof is not exhibiting any of the major problems mentioned here, there are other reasons that you may want to replace it. Your roof may be reaching the end of its lifespan, which means that the materials may start to deteriorate and cause damage. Your business may also be interested in new roofing technologies like a green roof or solar panels that would require a new roof.

If you’re ready to learn more about roof replacement, contact Maxwell Roofing & Sheet Metal, Inc. today! Our team is experienced and ready to help.

Does Your Courthouse Need a New Roof? Here’s What You Should Know

Posted on by Kathleen Maxwell

Courthouse roofs often have unique architectural designs or historical significance. But, just like any other roof, a courthouse roof will eventually need repairing or replacing. Dealing with the maintenance on a historical building can be intimidating for many government agencies, but, fortunately, it’s still possible to maintain a building’s character with a new roof.

If your courthouse is aging and in need of repairs or a new roof, here is what you should know:

1. Focus on maintenance first.

The best way to keep any roof functioning is to keep it well-maintained. Before replacing an architecturally complex or historically significant roof, the building owners should see what they can do to retain the materials that are already there. Small repairs or partial replacements can go a long way and help even the oldest roofs outlast their expected lifespans.

2. Weigh material options carefully.

In the event that a courthouse roof does need to be replaced, there are plenty of modern materials that can add benefits to the building. A quality roofing company can help government agencies balance the goal of maintaining a building’s historic character with other important roofing objectives like energy efficiency and durability. New roofing technology can help provide a building with the durability it needs, while still creating a striking look.

3. Give extra consideration to design.

Even in the event that a courthouse roof needs to be completely replaced, good design shouldn’t be sacrificed. Design consultations are included in our custom roof jobs at Maxwell Roofing. Our sheet metal fabrication shop also allows us to recreate unique architectural elements that may not be available through other roof companies.

4. Get on a new maintenance plan immediately.

Following a roof replacement, a government agency’s main goal is going to be to make their new roof last as long as possible. The best way to ensure that a roof lasts as long as possible is to regularly maintain it. Getting started right away with ongoing inspections and continuing with routine repairs is critical to ensure the new courthouse roof lasts for its expected lifespan. 

If you’re ready to get started, contact Maxwell Roofing & Sheet Metal, Inc. today! Our team is experienced and ready to help.

4 Things to Consider When Replacing Your Warehouse’s Roof

Posted on by Kathleen Maxwell

The roof can often be the most expensive part of a warehouse or industrial building. It must be functional for the activities going on within the building and also needs to hold up to tough conditions. These special considerations can make replacing a warehouse roof difficult. 

Here are a few things to keep in mind when choosing a new roof and a company to construct it for your warehouse.

1. Determine whether it’s time for a new roof.

Because commercial roofs are expensive, it can be tempting to put off getting a roof replacement as long as possible. While this may save money in the short-term, continuing to operate a warehouse with an outdated roof can cause major problems for your business. Leaks can lead to damage to machinery and inventory, and waiting too long for a roof replacement can even compromise the structure of the building. If your roof is beginning to have major problems, that means it’s time to call a roofing professional and look into a replacement.

2. Consider the activity that takes place in the building.

The type of business using the warehouse will influence the type of roof needed for it. A building used for manufacturing may need a roof that can withstand extreme temperatures or support a large amount of rooftop equipment, while a storage warehouse may have less specific needs. Before deciding anything else, choose what type of roof makes the most sense for your building.

3. Think about upgrading.

Many older warehouses may have roofs with outdated technology that is not as durable as what is available today. Roof replacement is the best time to consider upgrading your roof to a more durable material that will last longer than the previous roof. This is also the best time to evaluate the energy efficiency of your roof. A cool roof could help your business save money in electricity, or you may want to generate your own electricity with solar panels.

4. Prepare a maintenance plan.

When replacing a roof, building owners need to think beyond construction. Roof replacement is only the first step in the life of a roof. It will need to be properly maintained and managed in order to last out its full lifespan. When replacing your roof, be sure to consult your roofer about creating a maintenance schedule that will keep your roof in top shape.

If you’re ready to get started, contact Maxwell Roofing & Sheet Metal, Inc. today! Our team is experienced and ready to help.

Is 2020 the Year for a New Commercial Roof?

Posted on by Kathleen Maxwell

If your roof is getting old, if it has serious damage, or if it’s just full of outdated materials, then 2020 might be the year for an upgrade. New construction for a commercial roof is a big undertaking, but it’s usually worth the effort. Here are some signs that it’s time to get a new commercial roof.

Reasons to Get a New Commercial Roof

  1. Leaks and damage: Sometimes, leaks can be solved with a simple repair, but often they’re signs that something more serious is going on with the roof. If you have severe leaks, you may have other problems, and it’s probably time for a new commercial roof. Other damage to the roof membranes, flashings, or deck can also signal the need for a new roof.
  2. Investing in the longevity of your building: The cost of a new commercial roof can be off-putting, but the investment goes a long way. New commercial roofs can last for more than 20 years, and they also protect the rest of the building from damage. Without a good roof, your building may be prone to damage from storms or moisture.
  3. Improve energy efficiency: Energy efficiency technology has come a long way in the last few years, and roofs play a large part in how many of those technologies function. A new commercial roof can get better insulation or be fitted for solar panels or some other kind of technology to lower electricity bills and make your building more efficient.
  4. Structural roof damage: Old roofs or roofs that have undergone some sort of accident can become structurally unsound. When this happens, it doesn’t just endanger your roof but the integrity of the entire building. If a roof is sagging or bending, it’s time to get a new commercial roof as soon as possible.
  5. Damage to roof equipment or penetrations: Damage to roof accessories like flashings, drains, or penetrations like skylights can be a cause for a roof replacement. Sometimes, these accessories can’t be replaced, and you will need a whole new roof.
  6. Get a new design: Maybe you want to make your building more green. Maybe you want some nice skylights to wow your clients. A new commercial roof opens up a whole world of design possibilities.

If you’re thinking about starting a new year with a new roof, consider Maxwell Roofing & Sheet Metal, Inc. We have nearly 70 years of experience and pride ourselves on the quality of our work. To learn more about how Maxwell can help you get the most from your new commercial roof, contact us today.

Why Nashville Companies Choose Maxwell Roofing for Commercial Roof Replacement

Posted on by Kathleen Maxwell

Deciding when to replace a roof is a difficult decision. Facility managers must consider their budget, their long-term plans for the building, and how the roof will be used. But, the most important decision to make before determining how to replace a roof is deciding which company to use.

There are plenty of options for commercial roof replacement but, in Nashville, Maxwell Roofing & Sheet Metal, Inc. stands above the rest. Here are just a few of the reasons why customers return to Maxwell again and again.

  • Maxwell’s stellar reputation: With nearly 70 years of experience in Nashville, Maxwell has proven to be the area’s most trusted roofing partner. Maxwell built this reputation through years of over-delivering on their customer’s roofing needs by making themselves available and always producing a quality product.

“When you’re a property manager, and a roofing issue appears, accessibility matters,” said Maxwell customer Steve Horrell, the president of the Horrell Company. “That’s the kind of difference in Maxwell Roofing & Sheet Metal Inc.’s level of care that has helped them maintain their high-ranking reputation throughout Middle Tennessee.” 

  • Expert personnel: Maxwell treats its employees better than the competition, so it expects its employees to live up to higher expectations. Maxwell’s team is always professional, courteous, and knowledgeable. In the Nashville area, there is no better team for assessing and carrying out a roof replacement.
  • Excellent customer service: Maxwell prides itself on a high level of customer service. While other companies work just to get the job done, Maxwell’s employees strive to ensure that every customer feels as though they are a part of the process. Maxwell employees are willing to walk customers through every step of the roofing process from answering simple questions like, “How much does it cost to replace a roof?,” all the way through technical issues.

“There’s never been a time when Maxwell Roofing has not been on site within 24 hours,” says Terry LeTourneau, the facilities manager of Maxwell customer JLL-Mars. “They always make us feel like we’re the most important customer, which gives us a peace of mind when potential roofing issues might occur.”

  • MAXCare®: How often should a roof be replaced? With MAXCare®, Maxwell’s roof management program, customers get regular roof forecast assessments to answer these important questions. MAXCare® helps customers proactively care for their roof, preventing disasters down the line.

“It’s better to know any potential roofing problems or needs upfront than have surprises throughout the year,” says Greg Victor, the director of facilities at Ensworth School, a Maxwell customer. “As a facilities guy, you can’t always use who you want to use, but with Maxwell, we got lucky.”

  • Full-service roofing services: Most roofing companies put all their focus on roof construction, but Maxwell offers customers a full-service approach with maintenance and fabrication services. Not only can Maxwell replace a roof, but they can produce custom sheet metal pieces to cut down on costs and deliver exactly what each customer needs.

If you’re ready to learn more about how Maxwell Roofing & Sheet Metal, Inc. can help with your commercial roof replacement, contact us today.

4 Things That Can Go Wrong During a Re-Roofing Project

Posted on by Kathleen Maxwell

A complete re-roofing is a huge undertaking. It’s an extensive amount of work for a roofing company, and, as long as the project continues, your building is exposed to the elements. Because re-roofing is such an intensive process, there are a variety of things that can go wrong. Here are four things you should be aware of when planning to undergo a re-roofing project.

1. Inclement weather during the re-roofing.

One of the biggest risks during a re-roofing project is rain. Generally, rain is an inconvenience, however, during a re-roofing project, it can be disastrous. Since the “guts” of your roof are exposed during the process, prolonged rain exposure could cause saturation of the roof’s decking or insulation, which could then require repairs before completing the re-roofing. A reputable commercial roofer will choose a time of year for the project when the risk of precipitation is as low as possible.

2. Failing to get a thorough inspection before beginning the re-roofing.

On a project as extensive (and expensive) as a complete re-roofing, surprises are unwelcomed guests. For example, if you’ve already budgeted thousands for a re-roofing project, the last thing you want to hear is: “Well, when we got up there, we noticed some unexpected damage. If you want us to fix it, we’ll need to discuss a new quote.” That’s why it’s important to have a thorough inspection performed before any re-roofing project. This way, the roofer knows exactly what he’s required to do and will have the materials and labor on-hand to perform that task as quickly as possible. Surprises don’t just add to the bill, they add to the timeline, too, further increasing the possibility of inclement weather exposure, as noted in the first point above.

3. Going with the lowest bid.

“You get what you pay for” is a cliché, but it’s true. Often, the lowest bid on a project is not coming from the best company. That said, the most expensive bid on a project is not a guarantee of quality, either. The bottom line is this: During a re-roofing, you are not only spending a significant amount of money, but you’re also making a decision that could affect the next 20-50 years of your facility. Resist the urge to make such a huge decision based on cost alone. Find a reputable roofer with extensive work history and a penchant for doing quality jobs.

4. Materials left around the job site.

While it may seem immaterial in comparison with the other items on this list, roofing materials scattered around a job site can be a real hassle for employees. Can you imagine walking into work, putting in a hard day’s work, then coming out the door to find you have a flat tire due to a roofing nail you ran over when parking that morning? Issues like this are often avoided by heeding the advice in point number three above and choosing a reputable vendor.

A re-roofing project is a huge undertaking, worthy of your utmost consideration and thought. Use these four tips to avoid some major pitfalls of such projects. If you’re interested in learning more about how Maxwell can help guide you through an extensive re-roofing project, just click here to contact us.

How to Know When It’s Time for a Roof Replacement

Posted on by Kathleen Maxwell

It’s a surprise no one likes. It’s more than added stress, noise, and disruption. It’s a five- (or six) figure check for a new roof. Like taxes, roof replacements can’t be avoided. No matter how good you treat your roof, you’ll have to replace it eventually. However, it’s possible to plan for a roof replacement instead of being surprised by it.

A Roof’s Lifecycle

A roof falls into four categories during its lifecycle.

  1. 0-3 years: Honeymoon Phase
  2. 3-5 Years: Preventative Maintenance Phase
  3. 5-15 Years: Ongoing Maintenance Phase
  4. 15-20 Years: Re-Roofing Watch

But, don’t be fooled by those categories. Not all roofs make it to 15 years old. Some fall victim to severe weather, others to faulty installation, and many to poor maintenance practices.

Smart Roof Maintenance

All roofs must be replaced eventually, but there are some easy things you can do to make your roof last longer and save money in the process.

1. Perform Roof Inspections Regularly. Regular roof inspections will help you identify potential problems before they turn into actual problems. We recommend hiring a professional to perform these inspections. Unless you have roofing knowledge or experience, you might not know what you’re looking for. If you miss a small issue, it could turn into a big issue down the road. If you decide to perform a roof inspection yourself, take pictures and notes. You want to have a record of your roof’s condition, so if any major problems arise, you’ll be able to provide your roofer with background information.

2. Put Maintenance at the Forefront. A new roof may need preventative maintenance as early as three years after being installed. Be willing to pay a small price for preventative maintenance to avoid paying a big price for repairs.

3. Fix Problem, Not just Symptoms. Imagine your ceiling has started leaking. The leak is the problem, right? Fix it, and the problem is solved. Not exactly. By this point, the problem could be that the insulation is so saturated with water it can’t absorb anymore—along with the fact there is a hole in the roof. In this case, the leak is the symptom, and there are two problems. The first is the hole causing the leak, and the second is the saturated insulation. When repairing issues, fix the whole problem, not just the symptom. It might be more costly at the time, but it will help extend the life of your roofing system and save money in the long run.

4. Budget for Repairs. Budget about $750 for a simple repair. You can estimate the number of repairs on the amount of foot traffic expected on the roof, as well as the number of repairs needed in previous years.

When to Call a Professional

Sometimes, your roof needs special attention. You should call a roofer if you notice:

  • Cracks, blisters, tears, or other blemishes on the roof’s membrane
  • Failing flashing
  • Soft insulation
  • Water stains on inside walls
  • Leaks

An experienced commercial roofer will be able to identify the severity of these issues and recommend a course-of-action to fix them. An experienced roofer can also estimate how much life your roof has left within these ranges:

  • 1-3 years
  • 3-5 years
  • 5 years or more

So, if your roof has an estimated three years left, you can start budgeting for a roof replacement and eliminate the surprise that too often comes with roof replacements.

When Should You Replace Your Roof?

Only a professional can accurately tell you when your roof should be replaced. However, the four major factors that contribute to the necessity of a roof replacement are:

  1. Roof age (How old is the roof?)
  2. Roof usage (Does it experience a lot of foot traffic?)
  3. Maintenance history (Have you performed maintenance throughout the roof’s lifecycle?)
  4. Roof damage (Has the roof experienced major damage from weather or people?)

Not sure how long your roof has left? Just click here to contact us and learn how we can help!