Commercial roofing represents a highly specialized industry wherein roofing experts utilize a variety of construction materials and methods.  To believe that all commercial roofs are constructed from the same materials would be incorrect.  So then, when it comes to commercial roofing practice, what are some of the most common roofing materials and how would you choose the best materials for your building?  Let’s take a closer look at the most common material for commercial roofing and some of the reasons they are selected for various projects.

There are a variety of commercial roofing materials but we will discuss three of the most common including ethylene propylene diene monomer (EPDM), thermoplastic polyolefin (TPO), and polyvinyl chloride (PVC).  Depending on factors such as cost, climate, and durability, roofers will recommend materials that most effectively meet your needs.

EPDM roofs are sometimes known as rubber roofs and these materials are commonly selected because they provide great value.  Not only are EPDM roofs relatively inexpensive, they are easy to install, lightweight, and relatively easy to maintain.  With a lifespan of approximately 20 years, EPDM roofs provide reasonable durability as well.  However, EPDM roofs are not the most common choice for those concerned with aesthetics – these roofs essentially look like black, rubber coverings.  Since they are black, they also absorb heat meaning cooling costs in the summer can be considerably higher.  With respect to effects from weather, EPDM roofs are more susceptible to punctures from events such as hailstorms or falling branches.  Still, punctures are easily repaired and major problems can be avoided with appropriate maintenance.

TPO roofs are increasingly popular as a low cost option that reflects heat and reduces cooling costs.  These are lightweight roofs that are resistant to corrosion, prevent algae and mildew growth, and feature heat-sealed seams that are more resistant to leaks.  Nevertheless, TPO roofs are not fire resistant which means fire retardants need to be integrated into your roofing system.

Finally, PVC roofing features two layers of material reinforced with polyester between the layers.  Additives in the layers make PVC roofs resistant to UV damage, and like EPDM and TPO roofs, they are lightweight and easily installed.  PVC roofs make an excellent choice for flat or low-slope roofs as they are quite durable and stand up well to moisture, fire, wind, and even chemicals.  Installing PVC roofs requires a heat welding process which permanently bonds the roofing sheets and securely attaches seams.  On the other hand, PVC roofs are known to shrink which ultimately creates pressure on the seams.  Additionally, PVC roofs are relatively expensive and they are not ideal for colder temperatures.  PVC repair can be challenging so regular maintenance becomes especially important.

When selecting the roofing material for your commercial building, it is always highly recommended that you work with roofing experts and get their advice.  Roofing contractors have the knowledge and experience to fit your roof with the right materials.

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The leaky condo crisis of the 1980s, 1990s, and early 2000s provides plenty of proof that construction materials and methods can have a major impact on the overall condition and quality of your home.  Living in British Columbia means that you likely experience more rain in a few months than most climates experience in an entire year.  Yet, if you’re wondering which the best roofing materials for British Columbia are, there are no simple answers.  Indeed, British Columbia offers a very diverse climate, and many regions face a great deal of rain as well.  So, if you’re asking yourself which roofing materials are the best, speak to a qualified roofing contractor in your city.

Nevertheless, while even the most experienced roofer cannot offer a simple answer to this question, there are some guidelines that can help you choose the best materials for your roof.  Today, residential roofing materials come in a wide range of colours, textures, and types that each offer unique benefits and characteristics.  Choosing the right roofing material for you requires that you carefully consider your needs and also discuss your options with a roofing contractor.

Clearly, your roof is an important aspect of your home; one that provides key structural elements in addition to protecting your home, its contents, and your family from inclement weather.  Moreover, roof replacements generally constitute a sizeable investment, but if you choose the right roof and the right materials, it is an investment for many years to come.  Your roof should not only provide the right function, but the right style as well so choosing the right roofing materials requires that you make the following considerations:

1. What is your budget?  An excellent roofer can help you choose sound materials and design that will fall within your budget.
2. What is the style of your home?  Roofing materials are available in an impressive variety of styles, colours, and textures so be sure to choose materials that match the look of your home.
3. What are your insulation needs?  Your roof needs to effectively insulate against cold winters and hot summers.
4. Will your roof resist fire?  This is an important consideration for all homeowners, but especially those who live in high risk forest fire zones.
5. What are your weather conditions?  Rain, snow, and wind are just a few elements that can have a destructive impact on your home, so you need to consider these factors before choosing a roof.

Still, even after you consider all these questions, you will still find a variety of options available to you.  Composition or fibreglass shingles, wood shakes, rubber shakes, clay tile and slate roofing, and even metal roofing are all popular options in British Columbia.  As such, you should make an appointment with a professional roofer to determine the style, function and design of your roof and which materials fit best.

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Roofing systems are integral to the structure and protection of any commercial building and by extension your business.  As such, they are built for long-term durability and feature high performance materials and components in their construction.  Nevertheless, no roofing system lasts forever, particularly in climates that receive a diversity of inclement weather.  So, when your commercial roof is showing signs of wear and tear, how can you tell if it’s time to re-cover or replace your roof?

There are a number of reasons commercial roofs can fail; problems are sometimes associated with poor design and installation, poor maintenance, or even simply the age of the roof.  Regardless of the specific problem of your roof, the best remedy should arise from careful consideration of the following:

• The extent and severity of damage,
• The quality and effectiveness of insulation,
• The current status of the building (i.e. is it occupied or are their other maintenance issues?),
• Building purpose and location,
• Signs of internal moisture,
• The nature of the remediation (i.e. is this an emergency repair? Are you looking for long-term solutions?).

Once you have a clearer picture of these factors, you should speak to a qualified roofing professional about the best course of action.  Typically speaking, roofing fixes can be categorized as repair, coating, re-covering, or replacement.  Let’s have a closer look at each.

With respect to repair or simply coating your roof, these are great options for more minor problems.  Repairs are advisable when your roofing membrane is within the manufacturer’s stipulated lifespan and no major problems have been identified.  If your roofing insulation is also in good order, repairs are usually a low cost and appropriate solution. 

Coating is also a good option if you want extra protection against leaks or to extend the life of your roof.  In addition, certain types of coating can improve the energy efficiency of your building which ultimately translates to lower heating and cooling costs.  A new coating is less labour intensive and will be less likely to interrupt business operations than more major repairs such as re-covering or replacing your roof. 

If your roof is showing more serious signs of damage, re-covering or replacing the roof might be your best options.  Not all damage justifies replacement, and in many cases re-covering is a more affordable and equally acceptable solution to roof problems.  If your roofer has determined that roofing structures are fundamentally sound and has only one membrane that can be re-covered, they might suggest this route. 

Finally, roof replacement is typically recommended when damage is severe or extensive (i.e. more than one quarter of the roof is damaged), insulation is wet or damaged, or you want a new roof that features the most recent roofing technologies.

The post Re-Cover or Replace a Roof? appeared first on K2 Roofing Blog.

Commercial roofing is a much more complicated industry than many of us are aware.  Though there are 2 standard types of commercial roof – low slope and steep slope – there are actually a wide range of materials utilized in commercial roofing.  We’ll consider these two main types of commercial roof, if only to help organize the discussion.  But, before we start, let’s define low slope and steep slope roofs.

First, low slope roofs are those that require weatherproof or waterproof membranes as they feature slopes at 14° or less.  On the other hand, steep slope roofs allow for water-shedding as their slopes are greater than 14°.  As such, these types of roofs are often constructed from different materials.  Let’s have a closer look.

Low Slope Roofs

A low slope commercial roof is usually constructed from one of four different types of material:

1. Metal panels
2. Single-ply membranes
3. Built-up roof membranes
4. Spray polyurethane foam-based roofs

Metal panels are highly versatile.  They are an excellent option for commercial, institutional, and industrial buildings because they’re durable and relatively cost effective. 

Single-ply membrane roofing refers to pre-manufactured sheet membranes that are either thermoplastic or thermoset.  These sheets vary in thickness and are secured to a roof system to provide protection against inclement weather.  Often referred to as “rubber roofing,” these systems are flexible and durable.

Built-up roof membranes have been utilized in roofing for more than a century and are commonly known as tar and gravel roofs.  They are composed of alternating layers of bitumen and fabric for reinforcement to create a protective roofing membrane.  These roofs are affordable, durable, and relatively easy to maintain.

Finally, spray polyurethane foam-based roofs can be used on new commercial roofs or installed over an existing roof.  These systems can replace most roofing systems and feature a spray-on foam that seals and protects your commercial roof. 

Steep Slope Roofs

Now that we have a better idea about roofing materials for commercial low slope roofs, let’s turn our attention to steep slope roofs.  There are 5 common types of materials for these kinds of commercial roof:

1. Asphalt shingles
2. Metal roofing
3. Wood shakes and shingles
4. Slate
5. Clay or concrete tiles

Asphalt shingles are the most popular type of residential roofing system in North America, but they’re also excellent applications for steep slope commercial roofs.  They’re affordable and easy to maintain while also providing lasting protection.

Metal roofing is adequate for both steel and low slope commercial roofs.  Though more expensive than other types of roofing systems, commercial metal roofs hold up well to all kinds of weather.  Not only are they flexible with respect to their effectiveness in different climates, they are also highly durable.

Wood shakes and shingles are an attractive roofing option even for commercial properties.  If aesthetic is important, these are definitely an excellent options.  But wood shakes and shingles are durable as well.  They withstand severe storms and high winds, and they’re also energy efficient.

Slate roofing for commercial steep slope roofs are regarded as high quality, long lasting systems.  As a natural stone product, they’re aesthetically pleasing but also highly fire resistant and environmentally friendly.  However, slate roofs tend to be quite heavy and costly.

Finally, clay or concrete roofing systems are also stylish and durable.  They tend to be heavier than other roofing systems, and they’re also quite expensive.  That being said, they also are a great choice for all climates, and they’re fire resistant too!

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Looking for a Roofer in Vancouver Area?

Are you trying to find a qualified, experienced roofer?  A quick look at the Better Business Bureau listing of roofers in any medium-sized city is likely to produce up to 100 potential contractors.  That’s a pretty big number to wade through if you want to find quality, affordable services.  Nevertheless, not all roofers are created equally, and as a homeowner you should never leave your roof in the hands of just anyone.  Indeed, your roof is arguably the most important structure of your home, and you want to ensure it’s in top condition.  So, what should you look for when hiring a roofer?

Don’t worry; there are a few factors to look for when you are hiring a roofer.  First, ask friends, family, and colleagues for referrals.  In all likelihood, you’ll notice that some roofing contractors are more commonly cited by the people you know than others – and this is a good sign that they’re at least competent roofers.  Even if you can’t get a few referrals to the same roofer, you should certainly ask for some references so that you can get first-hand reports from homeowners about the quality of their roofing work.

You should also ensure that your roofing contractor has a fixed address and make a visit to their location.  If you can verify that a roofer has occupied the same business address in your community for an extended period of time, it will be easier to verify their reputation.  Shoddy tradesmen are more likely to change business names or addresses so they can more easily escape their negative reputation.  On the other hand, imagine a roofer that has been working under the same business name at the same address for 30 years.  Now imagine that roofer can provide dozens of local references.  You can see, you’re probably working with a quality roofer.

Still, even if you can identify a roofer with established roots in the community and great reputations with past clients, you want to make sure they have experience with your type of project.  Have they worked with the type of materials or application materials required for your roof?  The most reputable roofers are likely going to tell you whether or not they have the necessary experience, but make sure to ask for examples.

Finally, you want to ensure your roofer is properly licensed and insured in your area.  By its nature, roofing is a somewhat dangerous trade, and as a homeowner you do not want to be liable for injury to roofers or even passersby.  Your roofing contractor should have an exceptional health and safety record and should also be able to provide evidence that they are properly insured.

While finding a good roofer can be a time consuming process that requires some research on your part, it’s worth the effort.  Quality roofing at an affordable price can be difficult to come by, so make sure to take the time to find the right person for the job.

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What is in a residential roof?  They are pretty standard structures, are they not?  The untrained eye can easily make the mistake of thinking that all residential roofs are made from the same material; and the untrained builder could make the even bigger mistake of thinking that all residential roofing materials are appropriate in all geographies and climates.  Neither of these sentiments is true, however.  Indeed, there are many different roofing materials that can be used in residential roof construction, and each offer different strengths and weaknesses. 

Among the major types of materials used for residential roofs are asphalt shingles, wood, metal, tile, and slate.  Let’s take a closer look.

Asphalt Shingle Roofs

Asphalt shingle roofs are easily the most common variety of residential roof in North America.  Asphalt shingles are popular because they are inexpensive and easy to install.  Constructed from fibreglass and asphalt, these shingles can be sold in single-thickness varieties or more durable laminated alternatives.  While single-thickness shingles are much cheaper, laminated shingles are generally considered more attractive and more durable.

Wood Roofs

Wood roofs are certainly not a newcomer to the roofing market; in fact, they’ve been utilized for hundreds of years.  While these roofs are not suitable in regions that are at high risk for fires (they may even be banned in some areas), wood roofs are still a popular option for residential structures.  The lifespan of a wood roof is usually around 25 years, and these make very attractive options.  Available in cedar, redwood, or pine, home owners often find wood roofs are a beautiful alternative to asphalt.

Metal

Among the most versatile and durable roofs, metal roofs are another common choice for residential buildings.  Aluminum, copper, and lead roofing structures stand up well to even the most inclement weather, though they tend to be quite expensive.  Lead and copper-asphalt varieties of metal roofs usually come as shingles whereas the other varieties are used for seamed roofs where vertical sheets of metal are soldered together. 

Tile

Another attractive residential roofing material is tile.  Tile roofs are most commonly found on homes featuring Spanish Colonial and Mission designs.  These roofs are among the most expensive, and while they are very durable they are not always an appropriate choice as they are also very heavy.  As such, some existing homes cannot be retrofitted with tile roofing materials.

Slate

Finally, when it comes to residential roofing materials few products compare with the strength and durability of slate.  Indeed, it is not unheard of for slate roofs to last a hundred years or more.  Still, slate tends to be very expensive and heavy as well, so depending on your budget and the residential structure may not make an appropriate roofing option.

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An unfortunate reality of today’s day and age is that everybody is trying to make a quick buck and we can see it everywhere.  Most of the products we buy on a daily basis come from factories overseas where quality control is not of paramount concern.  We can also see it at home when under-qualified or dishonest tradesmen make wild promises but never deliver.  If you’re planning to install a new roof or undergo major roofing repairs on your home, you need to take the necessary precautions to avoid new roof scams.  So what can you do?

The Basics

There are a few basic steps you can take to protect your home and your family from roofing scams.  First and foremost, always interview a number of potential roofing contractors and choose a professional with a long-standing history of successful roofing projects in your community.  Seek referrals and ask for references that will give you an early picture of potential contractors’ skill and workmanship.

Screening possible roofers is the first step in avoiding scams, but you should also be sure to get all quotes in writing.  Your quote should include not only the costs of labour and materials, but also a clear definition of what work will be done and timelines for the project.  In addition, make sure you understand this quote as well as any contract you sign.  If you’re uncertain about particular terms, always ask for clarification.

With respect to invoices, estimates, and contracts, you also want to make sure that these documents include the full name, address, and phone number of the sales person and roofing contractor.  You should also take a moment to confirm with the sales person or roofing contractor that all staff are properly trained and that the roofing company carries appropriate insurance (including 3^rd party liability insurance).

Finally, always follow your gut instinct.  For the most part, common sense will help you avoid scams.  If a roofer offers you an “off the books, tax-free’ repair or replacement, this should be a red flag.  All work with any contractor should be properly documented and permitted, and tax-free deals are often a sign that your contractor is avoiding tax and other responsibilities.

Consumers Beware

Many municipalities offer a Consumers Beware List that can alert you to any dubious contractors in your area.  Similarly, you can check with your local Better Business Bureau to get more information about different roofing contractors in your area.  Ultimately, taking a bit of extra time in the early stages to vet several contractors and then choose the best roofer for your project is the best way to avoid roofing scams.   Then get everything in writing so that you have legal protection in case anything goes wrong.

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Though more typical for commercial structures, it is not uncommon for homes to feature flat roofs.  Still, homeowners tend to know very little about roofs in general, much less flat roofs.  In fact, when it comes to roofs, homeowners are typically only interested in one factor: aesthetic.  Pitched roofs are certainly the standard for residential structures, but flat roofs are actually less expensive to install and are therefore a common choice for homes in North America.  If you have a flat roof or you’ve chosen a flat roof for your new home, the obvious question is what is the best roofing material for flat roofs?

Essentially, there are three varieties of flat roof: felt, ethylene propylene diene terpolymer (EPDM), and fibreglass.  So, let’s take a closer look.

Felt (aka Torch On)

Sometimes known as a felt roof, polyester reinforced, or torch on flat roof have come a long way in the last couple of decades.  In the past, bitumen felt roofs were criticized for poor flexibility and durability, but these roofs have improved considerably in the past few years.  Usually applied with a 3 layer system, felt roofs feature a vapour control layer, 2mm of reinforced felt, and a final layer of 4mm felt cap sheet.  This final layer of torch on roofs may be plain black bitumen, solar reflective finish, or mineral fleck finish which is available in a range of colours.

Felt roofs are generally guaranteed for 10 years, but some contractors may offer guarantees of up to 20 years.  That being said, it’s not unheard of for a well-installed torch on roof to last up to 30 years if it is properly maintained.  Easily the cheapest option with respect to flat roofs, felt roofs are a great choice for the budget-conscious. 

EPDM

EPDM is a fancy way of saying rubber.  EPDM roofs have become increasingly popular since they were introduced in the UK a few years ago.  Often installed in one layer, EPDM roofs can eliminate the need for joins thereby reducing the risk of leaks.  These roofs are very light weight, flexible, and durable and make a great choice regardless of the climate in your region. 

In fact, EPDM roofs are very tough and guarantees can last up to 50 years, and their cost is not prohibitive.  Though, you should expect to pay about 20% more for an EPDM roof than a felt roof.

Fibreglass

Sometimes known as glass-fibre reinforced plastic (GRP), fibreglass roofs are by no means new, but they definitely represent the most advanced technology in flat roofs.  With modern resins and proper installation, fibreglass flat roofs are highly resistant to damage and can be repaired very easily.  The main benefit of fibreglass roofing systems is their appearance, but they also tend to be the most expensive.  Guarantees on fibreglass roofs are usually for around 25 years, but can last much longer than 30 years when they are installed properly.

Ultimately, determining the best material for flat roofs depends on a number of factors, including your budget and aesthetic preferences.  Likely, EPDM roofs offer the best bang for your buck, but you should probably discuss your options with a qualified roofing professional.  

Related: 

Residential roofing: http://www.k2roofing.com/roofing-services/residential-roofing/ 

Commercial roofing: http://www.k2roofing.com/roofing-services/commercial-roofing/

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roof maintenance

Remove Excess Water

Say No to Moss

Inspect Insulation

Regular Roof Inspections

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