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Category : Multi-Family Buildings

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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6 Factors that Affect Your Roof’s Life Expectancy

roof-life-expectancy

roof-life-expectancy

Even if you have a high quality roof, which will protect your home for a couple of decades, they do not last forever. You should always have regular inspections by a roofing contractor as well as periodic maintenance. Contractors can let you know when you can expect to have to replace the roof.

Regular maintenance is the best way to ensure your roof lasts a long time but there are six key factors that determine how soon and how often your roof may need repair or replacement.

  1. Roof Material

Each roofing material has different endurance and offers different life expectancy. If you have asphalt shingles you can expect the roof to last a few decades. The materials that provide even longer cover include clay or concrete tiles, slate shingles and membrane systems. When it comes time to replace your roof, consider using materials that have longer life expectancy. Work with you roofing contractor to determine the best materials to use for your building and local environment.

  1. Weather

Not something you can control but can be prepared for is the weather. Most systems are designed to endure heavy rains, strong winds even snow and hail, but this does wear them down. Extreme weather conditions can really take their toll on your roof, so depending on where you live your roof may be exposed to severe conditions that damage the structural integrity. Consider the climate you live in and keep your roof maintained accordingly. Perhaps check with local contractors for protective tips if you live in areas prone to harsh weather.

  1. Sun Exposure

The damaging UV rays of the sun can hurt your roof just like they hurt us. Some materials like metal or EPDM rubber membranes are more resistant to the ultraviolet exposure. Most roofing material will degrade with the repeated radiation. Continued sun exposure weakens the structural integrity of a roof by heating it. This causes thermal shock to the materials as well as contraction and expansion. Once this happens, the material degradation is accelerated causing roof repair and replacement to be sooner than expected. Since the sun is not something you can control, it is advised to check with professional roofers for any tips or protective additions that can be utilized.

  1. Roof Pitch

Longevity of a roof is also affected by its pitch or angle. Roofs that are flat and low do not get rid of water easily so it builds up. When rain or snow are allowed to accumulate on the surface it starts to wear away the materials. Pools of water cause the materials to lose strength which can cause leakages. A good way to offset the damage is to install gutter systems and make sure they are kept clear of debris build up, so they can efficiently remove water away from the roof.

  1. Ventilation

Every building should have proper ventilation. Regular air circulation through the house and attic prevents moisture from accumulating and also reduces the external temperature. When ventilation is poor, roof materials are weakened and not as effective. It is wise to consider which option works out better in the long run, replacing materials more frequently or investing in a good air ventialation system.

  1. Proper Installation

A quality installation goes a long way in roofing. When cheap or inexperienced roofers are used it is not uncommon for there to be premature repairs and replacement. While you save money in the beginning, you will have unexpected costs with leaks and other damage that occurs without proper installation. The use of lower quality materials also contributes to early degradation. You want to be sure you hire a licensed professional that uses high quality materials and ensures their work is up to all codes. In the event a genuine error occurs, professional contractors are always willing to return and make it right.

Roofing repairs and replacement is not cheap, so you want to make sure you get the most out of the roof you have. By investing the time to care for it and considering the above factors, you can expect to get more longevity from your roof.

 

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