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Category : Multi-Family Buildings

Covid-19: What should HOAs Do?

social distancing coronavirus

There are rising confirmed cases of the Covid-19 virus in California. As a result, Governor Gavin Newsom has declared a State of Emergency. There is an increased risk for health care workers, individuals with respiratory and other underlying health issues, as well as the elderly.

Proactive homeowners’ boards and their management professionals are thinking about how this virus might impact their residential communities and what can be done to blunt the impact. Most are asking the following questions:

▪ Can we prohibit all guests from entering the community?

▪ Can we prohibit owners from undertaking renovation projects so we can prevent contractors and other workers from entering the property?

▪ Can we prevent residents we know have traveled to any high-risk areas (China, Italy, Spain, Iran) from returning to their units?

▪ Can we ask potential purchasers and potential renters if they have traveled to any high-risk areas?

▪ Does the State of Emergency mean the board now has emergency statutory powers?

▪ Should we stop holding meetings?

While it is admirable that some community association boards are gearing up for the inevitable spread of Covid-19, a balance must be struck in order to avoid panic.

Overly restrictive protocol that unnecessarily impacts your residents’ freedoms and quality of life are not likely to withstand a potential legal challenge and they also will create unnecessary strain in your community. It is important to remember that not every private residential community will be impacted in the same way.

In multifamily buildings where residents encounter each other frequently in the elevators, corridors, and other common areas, the need to address preventative measures is much more pressing than in an HOA with single family homes and no enclosed common areas.

Condominium, cooperative and HOA boards should be discussing the issue of Covid-19 with their residents. We believe that the following protocol may be helpful:

▪ Urge residents who have frequent guests to limit or reduce guest usage for the near future.

▪ If there is Airbnb and other short-term rental activity occurring in your community that violates your governing documents, work with association counsel to minimize that activity.

▪ Place hand sanitizer stations in high traffic areas in the community.

▪ Speak to association counsel before engaging in conversations with potential purchasers or potential renters about Covid-19 and their possible travel-related exposure.

▪ Speak to association counsel about the applicability of emergency powers now that Governor Newsom has declared a State of Emergency. Don’t assume that this means that your board can utilize the same emergency powers that are activated in response to damage caused by an event for which a state of emergency is declared.

▪ Make sure you have updated emergency contact information for all owners including any residents who may be particularly vulnerable.

▪ Let your residents know that if they are feeling ill or have any questions or concerns that they can contact the Covid-19 hotline that can be reached at ‪1-684-633-5871.

The board may also wish to pass a rule or update an existing rule to address the use of common areas such as the pool or clubhouse for private social events hosted by residents. That rule might limit the number of such events or the number of people that can attend.

In terms of suspending meetings, the board needs to continue operating and administering the association’s business and meetings are a large part of that. In most communities, board meetings are so poorly attended that they are not likely to become an issue in terms of virus transmission. However, if your board is concerned, you can explore the use of an in-house cable channel to broadcast the meetings live so people can watch in the privacy of their homes.

There is no doubt that the flames of anxiety are being stoked by the 24-hour news cycle coverage of Covid-19. Association residents will undoubtedly be looking to their elected boards and management professionals to set the right tone when dealing with this latest challenge.

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Metal Roofs vs. Asphalt Shingles

Metal vs Asphalt Roof

Roofing techniques and materials have remained largely the same over the past decade. Obviously, the advent of solar power cells had caused a small rift, but this technology was integrated into the roofing industry relatively smoothly thanks in part to hardworking contractors who sought out the right talent to perform solar installations. Contractors are always on a quest to cut costs and increase the structural integrity of every project, but when it comes to roofing, it can be difficult to decide which material is best for your project, especially when weighing the pros and cons of metal roofs and asphalt shingles.

In this article, we will compare and contract metal roofs and asphalt shingles to help you determine which is best for your next project.

Cost and Lifespan

Asphalt is one of the least expensive roofing materials. The average lifespan of asphalt shingles is 15 to 20 years. Asphalt has remained an important roofing material despite changes in the construction industry. The Metal Roofing Alliance (MRA) and the Asphalt Roofing Manufacturers Association (ARMA) suggest replacing asphalt shingles after 20 years.

Metal roofing is significantly more expensive than asphalt. However, the cost is justified when you consider the extended lifespan of metal roofs, which average over 50 years. Alternatives to asphalt and metal roofs include tile, slate, and shake.

Aesthetics

Asphalt shingles are typically considered an inexpensive option that focuses on functionality overs style; however, the market has abandoned traditional three-tab shingles in favor of laminated designer shingles, sometimes dubbed “architectural shingles.” Laminated designer shingles can resemble more expensive roofing materials like shake and slate. This is one of the most popular roofing materials. The residential roofing market continues to shift toward laminates. Laminated asphalt shingles have added dimensionality because of extra layers of fiberglass mat, which create a wood shake-like appearance. Laminated shingle styles are also typically offered with longer warranties and better wind ratings.

Metal roofs have also improved their aesthetic with stamped-panel metal shingles that look like shake, slate, and tile. A metal roof doesn’t have to be silver or gray. They can come in a variety of colors and styles.

Resiliency

Resiliency is defined as “the capacity to recover quickly from difficulties; toughness.” A resilient roof can handle being walloped by a severe storm and doesn’t crumble under the pressure of melting ice or a minor earthquake. What causes asphalt to be so resilient? SBS-modified or “rubberized” shingles improve impact resistance and ensure that shingles stay put when conditions get worse. New advances have resulted in asphalt shingles that can protect homes from nearly everything, even algae.

Metal roofs can withstand winds exceeding 140 miles per hour, which is the equivalent of an F2 tornado. However, the most impressive aspect of metal roofs is their ability to resist fires. With wildfires scorching various parts of the country each year, builders are turning to metal roofs to give new and existing homes a fighting chance against the torrid dry season. Metal roofing is typically designated with a Class A fire rating, which means it is “nearly impenetrable” to moisture while resisting impacts from hail and debris. With improved coatings that help resist corrosion, metal roofing is safer than ever before.

Energy Efficiency

One major advancement in asphalt shingles is improvements to the Solar Reflectance Index (SRI) which includes metrics for reflectance and thermal emittance. Adding asphalt granules with light-reflecting pigments can increase the solar reflective value of a roof ten times over. This type of roof, deemed “Cool Roofing” is designed specifically to reflect solar energy, not absorb it. This eases the burden on the home’s cooling systems and reduces wear and tear on the roof. Comparatively, the highly reflective surface of metal roofing typically provides a 30 percent cost saving on cooling when compared to other roofing types.

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Roof Screens for Rooftop Equipment

Roof Top Equipment Screens

Quite often buildings have equipment on the roof. The roof is a great place to keep bulky equipment as it is out of the way and for the most part, out of sight. Depending on where you stand though, the equipment can look very unsightly. Big, bulky units can detract from the appeal and appearance of your building, especially if any investors happen to be in the area. As important as it is to find space for your equipment, it is equally important to remember that the appearance of your building matters to partners, business prospects, and customers. Your brand and reputation could be at stake. Ventilation, heating, and electrical equipment are necessary components of a building, but this doesn’t mean they have to be out n the open for all to see. Investing in roof screens allows you to protect your brand and mage, by effectively hiding the bulky and unsightly equipment that your building needs.

What Screens Can Help You Hide?

Having roof screens can hide equipment from sight, thus protecting the appeal of your building and brand. There is a lot of equipment that can be hidden with the installation of a quality roof screen.

  • HVAC units – These are typically bulky and lined up in rows, but are necessary for climate and temperature management for the building interior.
  • Roof Exhaust Ventilation Fans – These are needed to pull dirty air from the building and allow fresh air inside. Bigger buildings have more of these and the more you have the uglier the roof looks.
  • Cooling Towers – These extract unwanted heat from various places to reduce the temperature of the water. These are prone to rust which makes them very unsightly.
  • Ducts and Pipework – Always associated with HVAC units and other roofing equipment, you can often see ducts and pipes from ground level.
  • Service Walkways – Often used on flat roofing and are necessary for accessing roof equipment. While functional, these are not great to look at especially when located near the edges of the building.
  • Platforms – Many forms of equipment come with platforms to raise them from the roof surface. The framework and equipment are more visible because of this and when they also have guardrails, they are even more distracting.
  • Solar Panels – As green energy becomes more popular, many buildings invest in solar panels. While the panels are not ugly and offer a unique look, the supports, frames, and electrical connections are not pleasant to look at.
  • Communication systems – Antennas, cellular communication units, and satellite dishes are necessary for communication but do nothing for the building look. You may not be able to hide a tall antenna, but a screen will definitely cover the bulky equipment at the base.

The equipment discussed above is required for the efficient functioning of any commercial or industrial building, but it can take away from the appearance and potentially your brand. Investing in roof screens will help to protect your image as it keeps the bulky units from sight. They can also serve as additional protection from adverse weather. Screen designs and materials vary so you can choose what suits your building and brand best. You can even add your company logo to the screens too. Call us today to discuss your screen options and we will make sure your roof looks its best without costing your reputation.

We work with local reputable roof screen manufacturers and we’re able to build custom screens as well. Contact us and let us know how we can help!


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How to Protect your HOA from a Cyber Attack

how to protect your hoa from a cyber attack

Associations handle personally identifiable information on a daily basis. This data includes homeowner names, addresses, bank account information, credit card numbers, credit histories, and Social Security numbers, which are very attractive for cyber criminals.

As data thieves grow more sophisticated in their tactics, the potential risks of a data breach increase for an association.

The Foundation for Community Association Research, reports that more than half of homeowners associations have policies and procedures in place to collect, store, and protect homeowners’ personal data.

More than half (52%) of all data breaches result from hacking, which occurs when an unauthorized user accesses a computer network for illicit purposes, according to Verizon’s 2019 Data Breach Investigations Report. This can happen either externally (by a cyber criminal from an outside entity) or internally (by an association board member).

32% percent of breaches occur due to phishing, where a cyber criminal sends an email designed to mimic that of a financial institution or otherwise trusted resource. If a board member believes the email is authentic and provides login credentials as requested, the data thief has all the information he or she needs to access association accounts. Phishing schemes have become more effective as fraudsters refine their strategy.

In every piece of sensitive data, cyber thieves see dollar signs. According to Verizon, 71% of breaches are financially motivated.

But don’t make the mistake of thinking breaches only happen to large companies. Ponemon Institute’s 2018 State of Cybersecurity in Small and Medium Size Businesses report shows that 58% of small-to-mid-size businesses (companies employing between 100 to 1,000 people) experienced a data breach during fiscal year 2018, up from 54% in 2017.

No matter how well-intentioned board members may be, they could be one mistaken email away from falling for a phishing scheme and causing a data breach. That’s why protecting your association and its board is paramount. Thankfully, you can take steps to protect both your personal liability and that of the association in the event of a breach.

Start by reviewing your association’s insurance coverage. Board members may think their association’s directors and officers (D&O) policy offers protection. While these policies provide liability coverage for claims when individual members (or the entire board) fail to act or act wrongfully on the association’s behalf, they do not cover cyber liability unless it’s specifically listed within the policy.

The association’s crime and fidelity policy, which protects the money in the association’s accounts, may provide some coverage depending on the endorsements included in each association’s plan. Ensure your association’s crime policy includes the following:

Computer fraud. Covers loss of money, securities, and property as a result of using a computer to fraudulently transfer funds from inside the association or banking premises to outside the premises.

Funds transfer fraud. Covers losses resulting from theft of association funds by means of a fraudulent communication, such as a phishing email.

Fraudulently induced transfers. Covers losses due to any act that influences a person to take actions that may or may not be in their best interest, such as replying to social engineering threats.

Associations also should consider cyber liability coverage if it’s not specified in their D&O policy. Look for policies that provide first-party (losses and damages to the association) and third-party (losses and damage to outside entities) coverage. These will cover many of the expenses of data breaches, including legal and forensic services, regulatory expenses, notification costs, crisis management, and credit monitoring for all affected parties.

Most cyber liability policies will include a retroactive date; if a claim happens prior to that date, your association won’t be covered. This is an important stipulation to consider, especially since 56% of all breaches take months to discover, Verizon notes.

In addition to reviewing the association’s insurance coverage, board members can take multiple steps to improve data security.

■ Make sure all personally identifiable information is encrypted and stored in a secure server.

■ Talk with your manager about the data security requirements that are in place.

■ Use complex passwords with lowercase letters, uppercase letters, numbers, and special characters.

■ Implement two-factor authentication that requires users to log in twice from two different devices.

■ Give administrative privileges or personally identifiable information access only to board members whose specific roles require it.

■ Engage an outside cybersecurity firm that can monitor association data and alert the board of any concerns, if funds allow.

The risk of data breaches grows every year, and homeowners trust a community association’s board to keep their information safe. Don’t break that trust. Taking steps to prevent cyber attacks will save board members and residents from agonizing and expensive headaches down the road.

Source: HOAresources

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New Laws Affecting HOA Communities in California

new-laws-affecting-hoa-communities

With the new year, California has adopted new laws impacting the way your association might function. Governor Gavin Newsom signed a few bills into law affecting HOAs in 2020.

Some of these changes include, how elections are conducted, restrictions on accessory dwelling units, and specifications regarding whether or not a contractor is considered an employee. These changes may force associations to make modifications to existing regulations and practices within their communities.

Senate Bill 323 includes;

–      Suspending the right to vote in elections if the community member is overdue in their assessments

–      Setting qualifications for board member candidates

–      Requiring a third party to monitor elections 

Additionally, homeowners now face more challenges when building accessory dwelling units or ADUs.

This law prohibits HOAs from enforcing rules that would make ADUs difficult to build. However, it does allow them to impose reasonable restrictions, such as:

–      The owner must occupy the main residence instead of the ADU

–      Only one ADU maybe built on the lot

–      The ADU cannot be sold separately from the primary home on the lot

–      The ADU cannot be larger than 50% of the main residence or 1,200 square feet in size

Finally, one of the biggest changes reclassifies an independent contractor as an employee. Assembly Bill 5 states that contractors are considered employees unless the community association does not supervise the person’s work.

–      Attorneys, accountants, engineers, and other professionals who provide services to common interest communities are exempt 

Collectively, these changes were established after the first of the year. Boards and managers in the state of California should be aware and anticipate changes within their associations. It’s recommended that all communities in California consult a legal professional when establishing these updates.

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Best Windows for HOA Buildings

windows for HOA buildings

Windows are available in a wide range of colors, sizes, and styles. Therefore, it’s important to carefully consider which window type suits your needs and your building. Let us explain the differences.

Whether made of wood or plastic, with insulating glass and sound insulation – windows play an important role in building construction.

Before you decide on a window type, it’s important to do your research. A basic differentiator between windows is how the panes sit in the sash and how they can be opened. Here are the most common window types.

Single Window

Single windows are most common, they consist of sash frames and window sashes. The energy-saving two or three-pane glazing is installed in each sash, air-tightly connected to each other.

Composite windows consist of a separate outer and inner sash with single glazing. The sashes move on a common hinge and hook together on the opposite side using a fitting. This can be released with a special key so that the inside of the panes can be cleaned.

Due to the low weight of the panes, composite windows can be built as slender lattice windows with traditional window divisions. This is particularly true to style in old buildings.

Box Windows

Box windows have separate sashes inside and outside, which can be opened and closed separately. They sit in a surrounding lining at a distance of up to 6 inches; the complete set looks like a box.

The outer wing usually opens to the outside, the inner wing to the room side, the wings can be fitted with different types of glazing. Heat insulation glass is often chosen for the outside and inexpensive single glazing for the inside. In some buildings, the single glazing is also sometimes placed in the outer wing.

Box windows are very popular because of their good sound and heat insulation.

Opening Types

A distinction is also made between how windows are opened. This is because the type of opening has an influence on how the windows are used.

The following questions can help with window selection: Can they be easily opened for ventilation, can I put the decoration in front of them, how well can they be cleaned and can a shade be added afterward?

Fixed Glazing

Fixed glazing is the least costly solution, but means that the window cannot be opened. Fixed glazing is used, for example, as facade decoration and combined with rotating window sashes in multi-part windows or as skylights.

Rotary Wing

Rotating leaves rotate around a vertical axis at the left or right edge.

Tilt Sash

Tilting sashes have a lower horizontal axis and open a gap at the top. If the axis is located at the top, for example at a skylight, one speaks of a folding sash.

Turn-tilt Wing

Turn-tilt sashes are among the best-selling window types: the sash can be turned or tilted. On older models, you need both hands to turn the fitting, modern fittings allow operation with only one hand.

Sliding Windows

Sliding windows and doors are lifted by turning the handle or swiveled out of the guide rail and can then be moved sideways.

Swing Windows

Swinging windows revolve around a horizontal central axis, one part of the sash protruding into the room, the other outside. If the window sash moves around a vertical axis, this is called a turning window.

Note: Combinations are also possible, such as a two-wing window with skylight and tilt and turn sashes or a skylight for tilting with a lower part as a turning sash.

Whatever you choose, two things are extremely important: the window should be accessible without having to climb up and ventilate the room transversely.

Dimensions

The glazed area of a room must be 1/8 to 1/3 of the room floor area – there are no regulations for the size of individual windows. Standard dimensions, also known as preferential dimensions, are becoming less important.

The dimensions and profiling of the frame timbers, on the other hand, are standardized, from which all types of windows can be produced at low cost – even with special profiles, bar spacings and special shapes such as arched windows or triangles. Aluminum panels on the outside of the frame protect the wooden surface from the weather, while thermal insulation materials in the core improve the energy balance.

The Right Frame

Wood-aluminum Windows

Wood-aluminum windows combine the technical advantages of aluminum and the design advantages of wood: on the outside, a robust aluminum shell protects against wind and weather, inside you can enjoy the cozy atmosphere of wood.

The aluminum is largely weather-resistant and shows hardly any signs of aging or wear, even after years of use. Since wood and aluminum expand differently with temperature and humidity fluctuations, the materials must be joined together in a certain way. Usually, the aluminum is not screwed onto the sealed wood but clipped on using a special clip. The fact that there are no contact points fixed at specific points gives the materials the necessary leeway to move.

Wooden Windows

Suitable wood for windows is spruce, pine, larch, fir, oak or meranti. There are also windows made of precious wood such as maple, alder, cherry, and walnut as well as teak and even mahogany. Wood ages over time and must be regularly cared for to ensure that it lasts as long as possible.

Although wooden windows are more sensitive to moisture, frost and UV rays, they are still extremely popular. Not only can they be treated with any color and thus redesigned, but they also convey a special warmth and comfort in the living room. Wood is also a renewable resource and therefore a good choice for environmentally conscious owners. Because wood binds carbon during growth. Who uses the material thus on a long-term basis as a building material, reduces the greenhouse gas carbon dioxide (CO2).

It is important to apply a wood preservative; this process can already be carried out during the manufacturing process. The wood is impregnated and coated all around, which also protects the hidden inner edges of the corners from penetrating moisture. A triple paint structure extends the durability of the paint application.

Plastic Windows

Plastic windows are by far the cheapest choice. They are not only easy to clean, but also have a long service life without surface treatment. Weathering, corrosion, acids, exhaust gases, and cleaning agents are of little importance to them.

Thanks to the easily moldable PVC, plastic windows are available in all shapes and colors. For an extra charge, they are even available with decor.

Although plastic windows are much cheaper, they are in no way inferior to wooden windows in terms of heat and sound insulation. However, they are statically charged and attract dust. Also, plastic provides a cooler living atmosphere and the production of PVC is considered to be less environmentally friendly.

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Can an HOA Board Run its Own Construction Projects?

HOA-Board-Run-Own-Projects

Many HOA boards run their own projects and it can sometimes feel like you are not getting all the information and updates. As frustrating as this can be, HOA boards are entitled to run their own projects. Typically management is the face of the owners, which means the decisions they make are for the community. As a board, they are entrusted with making decisions that will benefit and member and owners feel secure in this.

Conflict of Interests

HOA boards can oversee the construction and maintenance of any project but with owners being used to the management doing this, there can be some conflict. A lack of communication between the boards and management only makes the situation worse. Any conflicts of interest become difficult to clear up. Conflicts of interest can occur when a board member’s decisions are influenced by personal interests rather than those of the association or HOA community. Decisions made this way are a direct breach of the board’s fiduciary duties and the director of the board loses protections of the Business Judgement Rule. An example of this would be if a board awards a roofing contract to a family member of the director. A contract like this can be void. Sometimes board members vote on matters that result in a benefit to them but it is not a conflict of interest because it also benefits the membership. An example would be voting for added security patrols for which the director and the community will both benefit.

Potential Liability

The conflicts between boards and the association do not create personal liability in the following cases:

  • The director makes full disclosure of the conflict
  • The director gets no influence on the vote by leaving the room during the discussion of the topic
  • All transactions are just and fair and reasonable as to the association at the time it is authorized and approved.

Failure to Relay Information

In some cases, the board has not relayed information to management and they are left in the dark on projects. This can be problematic because if owners call to get information about the changes affecting them, management will not know the answers. This leads to both management and owners being in the dark and fearful of what could be happening. HOA boards can run their own projects but it is essential to avoid conflicts of interest and avoid the risk of liability. The board can run projects but they need to ensure that management is kept in the loop and is aware of the project details, timelines, and dates. Management also enjoys having memos from the board director whenever any updates and changes occur along the way. Communication is the best way to ensure everyone is in agreement and that all projects are run above board.

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The Different Types of Flat Roofs

Types Of Flat Roofs

Types Of Flat RoofsWhen it comes to designing the perfect commercial or industrial building, there are a lot of roofing options to choose from. However, one of the most popular options is flat roofing. Sure, multi-dimensional roofs may seem more avant-gard, but if you want to ensure that the structure has integrity, the best option to go with is a flat roof because of how practical they are. Not only can this be a very safe option, but it can also offer a lot of value.

Duro-Last Roofs

If you are in the market for a roofing system that you don’t have to replace often, then you should definitely consider Duro-last. The Duro-last roof has earned a reputation for being both long-lasting and durable. However, one of its most attractive features is the cost. This brand not only offers a considerable amount of value, it also happens to be extremely affordable. When it comes to maintenance, it does not require as much upkeep as other brands do. Keep in mind that you will need to inspect it from time to time, just as you would with any other brand.

Membrane Roofing

One of the most important elements of any flat roof is the membrane. There are a lot of different combinations that could hold the membrane in place like glue or nails, gravel or rubber. There may be other components added to make sure that the functionality of the membrane remains protected. Ultimately, the membrane is what shields the inside of your building from all outdoor weather conditions.

Thermoplastic Membranes

If you need a roofing system that can stand up to harsh weather condition, thermoplastic membranes may be just the thing you are looking for. Thermoplastic roofing systems also referred to as TPO, are extremely unique in that they are designed to adapt to the weather. Unlike the average roofing system, this one produces a membrane that contracts and expands when outdoor conditions are extreme. This ensures that your roof stays in great condition and does not become dried out and brittle. This well-planned environmentally friendly design makes it the perfect option for those who want to avoid physical damage from extreme weather conditions.

Rubber Membranes

If you take time to compare the differences between thermoplastic membranes and rubber roofing, you will find that the two are quite similar. Rubber roofing membranes are similar to thermoplastic membranes in that they are designed to help your building withstand harsh weather. However similar they may seem, they perform the vital functions in entirely different ways.

You see, unlike TPO that is built to adapt as weather conditions change, rubber membranes work to keep the weather off of the building altogether. Some may even say that the roof is resistant to harsh outside conditions. While both the TPO and the rubber membranes can be valuable, in most cases, it is best to consult with a roofing contractor to find out which option is best for you because everyone has different needs.

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Is A Flat Roof A Good Choice For Your Building?

Is A Flat Roof A Good Choice For Your Building

Is A Flat Roof A Good Choice For Your Building

Although flat roofs are commonly seen on commercial buildings, they are also a potential option for residential applications. Sometimes the theme or style of a dwelling demands a traditional pitched roof, but there are still areas of almost any home where a flat roof is appropriate. The issue is whether using a flat roof for all or just a section of your building makes sense. Review the following considerations as you make your choice.

Is A Flat Roof A Good Choice For You?

Flat roofs are incredibly durable and are less labor-intensive to install than pitched. This is a plus for any building but is particularly attractive to businesses as they attempt to hold down costs while utilizing every bit of space. Because of the lack of a steep pitch, a flat roof can act as an additional level to a building. Mechanical systems including heating and air conditioning can be supported on top of a flat roof, leaving more room inside the building for production or storage.

Commercial buildings usually embrace a utilitarian style, which is consistent with the straight lines of a flat roof. Residential roofing often has a significant style to it and a flat roof can clash with the desired effect. On the other hand, many home designers and architects do work well with the bold angles of a flat roof. It is also possible for a number of different roofing systems to be used in one dwelling. For example, an all-season porch, sunroom, or exercise area can take advantage of the features of a flat roof.

Thermoplastic Olefin (TPO) roofs

Flat roofs can be extremely energy efficient which is a bonus for both commercial and residential buildings. Thermoplastic Olefin (TPO) roofs reduce both heating and cooling costs throughout the seasons. During the warmer months, this roofing reflects the sun’s heat, substantially decreasing the need for air conditioning. When the temperatures drop, the same type of roof holds heat inside, allowing the home or business owner to save on heating.

In general, the materials used for flat roofs are weather resistant. There are far fewer weak areas where moisture can leak through, such as you can see with clay tile, asphalt shingles, or shakes, especially when a layer of gravel is added as extra protection. The TPO roofing is a membrane, sealed over the area to be protected, without the many seams and edges of a standard pitched roof. If two pieces of rubber flat roof membrane must be seamed, the rubber-based glue used completely closes any gaps. The materials are also cost-effective once you consider the initial cost and the length of time expected before replacement.

A final benefit of flat roofing is the relatively infrequent maintenance needed. The gravel coating may need refreshing and redistributing to ensure it is even on all parts of the roof annually. Occasional reapplication of sealant can be required around vents, screws, and edges. Any upkeep is far more accessible than that required for pitched roofs, as workers can simply walk out on the flat surface to perform the tasks.

Selecting a flat roof can be cost-effective and offer many other benefits as well. As long as the angular silhouette works with the design of the building, or can be hidden, a flat roof has a lot going for it and deserves a second look.

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Perfect Time For Preventative Maintenance On Commercial Roofs

Preventative Maintenance On Commercial Roofs

The only way you can be sure that your roof is doing its job all year long is to schedule periodic inspections which will lead to proper maintenance and repair. A great time to pencil in the needed inspection and maintenance is during the fall months. The hottest months of the year are gone, and you may experience lots of rain coming your way in Los Angeles. The roof is ready to reveal any weaknesses, structural damage, or other issues that may impair its performance as we move into winter.

Timing Your Roof’s Inspections

The roofing industry suggests that commercial roofs be evaluated twice yearly, and fall fits into that schedule very well. Your commercial roof has taken a beating over the hot summer months. The sun’s UV rays, winds and debris from trees and structures on the roof have taken their toll.

Fall is the time to investigate whether routine maintenance will take care of the problem of if a more intensive set of repairs needs to be done. Taking the time to complete these steps rewards you with a well-functioning roof that will last for many more years.

Consult A Professional

Best practices and outcomes indicate that you need to have an inspection completed by a licensed roof contractor in Los Angeles. Although you could give your roof a once-over visually, roofing experts are trained to look for the signs that indicate a roof is damaged, aging, or failing because of improper work earlier in its lifespan. Be sure the roofing company you engage is familiar with commercial roofing issues, which can be very different from residential roof problems. ADCO Roofing in Los Angeles has extensive experience with commercial and industrial roofing systems.

What To Expect

  • Interior Evaluation

Do not be surprised if the contractor starts the inspection inside your building. The best indicator of a failing roof is often found within workspaces, storage areas, and other areas of your business. What the inspector looks for is any indication that water has found a way inside. He or she will scan carefully for staining of walls and ceilings, buckling of floors, mold growth anywhere, and any standing water or puddling.

  • Exterior Evaluation

Once the interior has been viewed the roofing contractor will spend time on the roof itself. The waterproof membranes will be inspected foot by foot, looking for any obvious penetrations or more subtle signs of water incursion, liked pooling or sagging spots. The inspector will check all seams, flashings, and fasteners, mechanical or adhesive, for missing parts, improper application, or wear and tear.

The edge of the roof can show its age faster than other areas, so the inspector will take time to view it all around the building, looking for any breaks, notches, wear, or other damage that could be letting water enter the building.

If penetrations or worn areas are found the inspector will determine whether they need repair or a more major tear-out and replacement procedure. The biggest concern in the fall is to get your commercial roof ready for the cold and rain that is just over the horizon. Your roof protects the building’s insulation, and any waterlogging of that material means the insulation cannot do its job. Your premises will be harder and more expensive to heat, and the comfort of your staff, clients, or customers will be affected adversely.

  • Repairs And Cleaning

Once the issues are identified, a reputable commercial roofing contractor will make the repairs and complete the maintenance necessary. You want this done before the rainy season so that all is set and ready to go to get you through the winter into spring. A quality roofing contractor will also be certain to clear all debris from the top of your roof, either from the repairs and maintenance, or just the normal deposits from trees and structures in the area.

You will not be disappointed in the results of a carefully planned commercial roof evaluation. The peace of mind you receive is worth the expense, and you definitely will avoid major costs down the road if you arrange for this to be done regularly.

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