Taking Control Over a Commercial Roof’s Durability and Longevity

durable roofing systemA proper roof system design and installation is the first step in not only becoming code compliant, but in taking control over roof system durability and longevity. Every professional roof contractor realizes that there are legal minimums for being code compliant regarding weather protection and other minimum requirements as they relate to meeting minimal standards regarding performance, materials and coverings, insulation and re-roofing as well as fire resistance. The minimal requirements are stated in Chapter 15 of the International Building Code. Designing and installing roof systems well above these minimum levels is what sets a quality commercial roofer above the rest and puts him or her in high demand among customers.

Take control over roof system durability and longevity by:

• Using a roof cover board
• Planning for effective drainage
• Installing traffic protection
• Increasing wind resistance
• Using a vapor retarder when necessary
• Managing installation moisture

spray foam roofThe roofing contractor can easily overlook drainage problems, especially localized drainage and therefore preventing localized ponding can be achieved by using tapered insulation on the upslope side of the rooftop as well as between scuppers.

For safety reasons it is important to install walk pads, pavers, walkway membrane rolls or elevated walkways around any location that is likely to be used by other trades that will need to have access to the roof for periodic maintenance.

Part of the requirements concern wind resistance. One way to increase durability and longevity is by creating a roof that meets higher-than-code wind speed (typically by adding 10 or 20 mph). A roofer can accomplish this by upgrading to a thicker metal or by adding fasteners, which will increase wind resistance to edge metal and copings.

It may be necessary to use a vapor retarder to prevent a roof from becoming or from staying wet. The vapor in a roof can cause condensation leading to degradation, loss of R-value and lead also to biological growth.

Roofing Services

Our professional commercial roof contractors provide:

  • Roof maintenance & repair
  • Inspections & leak detection
  • Energy efficient roof systems
  • Complete roof replacement
  • Roof life-extending solutions
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The best way to prevent moisture during installation of a roof is to pay attention to keeping materials dry before they are installed by using tarps and by elevating materials upon pallets. Also, end-of-day tie-offs can also be used to prevent moisture infiltration for portions of the completed roof.

An experienced roofing company will always follow best practices when it comes to roof installation. Best practices are those that not only follow code strictly but also strive to achieve higher standards by taking control over roof system durability and longevity by following the above-mentioned measures. Best practices also include using quality materials, creating and using good roofing design, adhering to proper installation procedures and assuring that the owners are aware of regular maintenance schedules to keep the roof in good condition.

To learn more about the steps we’ve taken to give commercial building owners the best value, visit the following link: Nationwide Commercial Roofing.

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Written by: Ian Myers
Ian Myers
Ian was the very first team member brought on by the original co-founders of the Choice Roof Contractor Group to assist with nationwide growth. Since then he has written 120+ blog posts and provided excellent support to the roofing contractors in the group. Through his multiple roles in the commercial roofing industry, he has gained tremendous knowledge in the sector.