Commercial Roofing FAQ

It’s common for building owners and facility managers to not think about their roofs unless they have a reason. In most cases, it ends up being a major leak or failure in the system. When these types of issues show up on a commercial roof, it raises a lot of questions — from the cost of repair to the benefits of regular roofing maintenance.

Here are some of the common questions people ask about commercial roofing.

How do I know if my business needs a new roof?

Commercial roofs are meant to last for 10-30 years, and building owners should know when their warranty expires so they can make plans to replace their roof ahead of time. If you don’t know anything about your warranty information, you should have a professional roofer inspect it and give you advice about any replacement or repair options.

How long do commercial roofs last?

Commercial roofs that use a single-ply membrane system can last 10-30 years, but the lifespan of your roof will depend on the specific system, the thickness of the membrane, and any other elements in its design. Here are the averages for some of the common commercial roofing systems:

• Spray polyurethane foam: 30-50 years.
• Single-ply membrane TPO: 15-20 years.
• Single-ply membrane EPDM: 20-25 years.
• Metal: 30-45 years.
• Built-up roofing: 10-15 years.

A professional roofer will be able to come up with a solution that’s based on your specific needs.

How much does it cost to install a new flat roof?

Single-ply membrane roofs can have a number of designs (depending on the building’s specific requirements), so prices can range from just a couple of dollars per square foot to more than $20 per square foot. It will, of course, depend on the complexity of the roofing system.

There are a number of factors that can affect the price. Some of them include but may not be limited to:

• The size of your roof.
• The condition of your existing roof.
• Roof accessibility.
• The choice of insulation.
• The choice of membrane being used.
• The choice of installation.
• The presence of any roof penetrations.
• The type of warranty.

Be sure to speak to a professional roofer for more information.

How can I keep my commercial roof maintained?

Most commercial roofing systems require some type of preventative maintenance. Manufacturers will often have their own specific recommendations, but roofing contractors will usually have service departments that building owners can contact during emergencies or when roofing maintenance is needed.

A study conducted by Firestone Building Products showed a roofing system with an average lifespan of 20 years will last beyond its warranty period if a preventative maintenance program has been implemented, while roofing systems with the same lifespan that don’t undergo regular maintenance will only last an average of 13 years. You want to treat your commercial roofing system as an asset, which is why you should make sure you have it inspected at least twice a year.

What is the best type of material for commercial roofs?

Single-ply commercial roofing membranes have properties that allow them to perform well in a number of different buildings. Roofers may also recommend EPDM, TPO, or PVC membrane (depending on the desired level of roofing performance). These membranes can have a number of different thicknesses, but thicker membranes tend to perform better.

What is TPO?

Thermoplastic polyolefin (TPO) is a type of single-ply roofing membrane that is made from flexible synthetic materials. It has a good performance rate because the materials are welded together, which makes it extremely durable. In fact, TPO membranes have a larger market share than any other roofing system in the U.S.

What is EPDM?

Ethylene Propylene Diene Monomer (EPDM) is the technical name for a rubber membrane commercial roofing system. EPDM roofs have been in use since the 1960’s, so they have proven track record. They can be installed in a number of different thicknesses and widths. They can be either mechanically attached, adhered, or ballasted.

What is the typical warranty for a commercial roof?

Warranties for commercial roofing systems can vary widely — from 12 months to 30 years or more. But it will depend on the type of roofing system being installed.

How long does it take to install a commercial roof?

The timeline for a commercial roof installation will depend on a number of factors, which can include the following:

• The type of roof.
• The size of your roof.
• The presence of any existing damage.

What are some of the standard maintenance practices for a commercial roof?

Maintaining a commercial roofing system involves a number of important tasks to make sure it retains its functionality over the long term. Some of them include the following:

• Cleaning gutters and drain baskets — You want to keep them clear of any standing water, which can cause leaks and structural damage.
• Removing debris — You should regularly clean leaves, branches, and dirt from the roof because it can prevent more serious issues from developing later on.
• Ensuring proper drainage — You want to make sure your drains and downspouts are free from blockages to keep water from pooling (which is an issue that can lead to leaks and structural damage).
• Reapplying coatings — You should reapply any protective coatings to improve the roof’s resistance to weather elements.

You should also take the time to make minor repairs (such as leaks, damaged shingles, and any flashing issues).

How often should I inspect my commercial roof?

Regular inspections are important to maintaining your roof’s health, which you should do at least twice a year and after any major weather event. It can help you catch any potential issues before they turn into expensive repairs.

Can I install a new commercial roof over an old one?

You can install a new commercial roof over an old one in some circumstances. Any building with asphalt shingles can support two layers. But if they have already been installed, they should be removed so the sub-roof can be inspected and repaired.

Why are commercial roofs different from residential roofs?

One of the main differences between commercial and residential roofs has to do with their design. Commercial buildings often have flat or low-sloped roofs to accommodate certain equipment (such as HVAC systems). Residential roofs are steeper, which are more suitable for water drainage and visual appeal.

Another significant difference is in the materials being used. Commercial roofs rely on specialized materials (such as TPO, PVC, EPDM, and modified bitumen), which are designed for durability and have more weather resistance. Residential roofs often use other materials (such as asphalt shingles, tile, or metal).

What are some common signs that my commercial roof needs to be repaired?

One of the first indications that a commercial roofing system needs to be repaired is the presence of water stains or leaks. Other signs include the following:

• Pooling water on the roof.
• Cracks or punctures in the roofing material.
• Loose or missing flashing around vents and HVAC systems.
• Blistering or bubbles on the roof’s surface.

All of them are signs that your roof may need to be repaired.

What are some factors that can influence the cost of a commercial roof?

Your choice of materials can be a significant factor in the cost of a commercial roof. High-performance materials (such as PVC) may come with a higher upfront cost, but they can have more long-term value. Roof size can also play a significant role. Larger roofs require more materials and labor, which can increase their overall cost. If you want to include any additional features (such as skylights, HVAC systems, and other unique design elements), it can add to the complexity and cost of the installation.

What are some of the most common types of commercial roofing?

There are many types of commercial roofing, but some of the most common include the following:

• Built-up roofing (BUR).
• Ethyl propylene diene monomer (EPDM).
• Polyurethane spray foam.
• Modified bitumen roofing.
• Thermoplastic olefin (TPO).
• Polyvinyl chloride (PVC).

Be sure to speak to a professional for more information.

Can a commercial roof be insulated?

Some commercial roofs are compatible with insulation, which can help to improve your building’s energy efficiency as well as your heating and cooling costs (especially during the hot summers of South Texas). There are several types of insulation available. Some of them include:

• Spray foam.
• Low-E insulation.
• Fiberglass.
• Cellulose.

Be sure to speak to a professional roofer about what type of insulation will work best for your roof.

What are some financial considerations when investing in a new commercial roof?

If you’re thinking about investing in a new commercial roof, you should consider the following financial implications:

• Depreciation — The IRS has guidelines about the depreciation of commercial roofs, which usually happen over 39 years.
• Cost Recovery — Depreciation allows businesses to recover the roof’s cost throughout its useful life, which can be beneficial for tax purposes.
• Useful Life — The lifespan of a commercial roof can be anywhere from 15 to 50 years (depending on the material being used and maintenance practices being implemented).

Understanding these financial elements can help you make a more informed decision so you can plan for future expenses.

Don’t Hesitate To Call For An Appointment

Weather, inspections, and permits can also affect the timeline for completion. Every job is unique, so it can take anywhere from a few days to a few weeks. If you’re looking for one of the best roofing companies in Corpus Christi, be sure to reach out to Bayfront Roofing.