Commercial Flat and Membrane Roofing Questions
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Commercial Flat / Membrane Roofing FAQs
What are the most common commercial flat roofing systems?
The most common commercial flat roofing systems today are TPO and PVC membrane roofing systems. Both are single-ply membranes designed for durability, weather resistance, and performance on low-slope commercial roofs.
How long does a commercial membrane roof typically last?
A properly installed and maintained commercial membrane roof will typically last between 20 and 30 years, depending on the roofing system, weather exposure, maintenance, and installation quality.
What is the difference between TPO, PVC, and EPDM roofing systems?
The primary difference between TPO, PVC, and EPDM roofing systems is the chemical composition of the membranes. Those differences affect where each product performs best. Chemical exposure from nearby industries or restaurant exhaust can make PVC or TPO a better choice than EPDM. Climate also matters.
How do you determine whether a flat roof should be repaired or replaced?
We base the decision on the expected lifespan of the repair, the overall repairability of the system, long-term cost effectiveness, and whether leaks may have caused fungal or moisture intrusion within the building assembly.
What causes leaks in commercial membrane roofs?
Commercial membrane roof leaks can be caused by punctures from foot traffic or other trades, flying or falling debris, expansion and contraction throughout the year, and poor initial workmanship.
What is ponding water?
Ponding water is any area on a flat roof that holds water for 48 hours or longer after rainfall. Ponding water will limit the life of the roof system.
Can a new membrane roof be installed over an existing roof?
That depends entirely on the existing roofing materials and the components of the new system. Every project is different and must be evaluated for compatibility, code compliance, and long-term performance.
How important is insulation in a commercial roofing system?
Insulation is a very important long-term investment during a commercial roofing project because reroofing is often the easiest time to add R-value to the structure.
What maintenance should be performed on a commercial flat roof?
Commercial flat roof maintenance should include cleaning, seal inspection, unclogging drains, and redoing sealants as needed.
How often should a commercial roof be inspected?
It is usually best to inspect a commercial roof system every one to two years. The best way to help ensure long life is with a maintenance program from a reputable contractor.
How do rooftop HVAC units and penetrations affect membrane roofs?
Rooftop HVAC units are one of the primary trouble spots on a membrane roof. Problems can come from poor initial installation, maintenance work creating new penetrations, vibration from the unit, or the unit itself leaking onto the roof system.
What warranty options are available for commercial membrane roofing?
Standard 10- and 20-year manufacturer material warranties are common. Reputable contractors can also offer 15-, 20-, and even 25-year NDL warranties from the manufacturer that cover labor and materials.
How long does a commercial flat roof replacement usually take?
The timeline for a commercial roofing project depends entirely on the structure, scope of work, and overall project size. Every commercial roof is different.
What should building owners expect during a commercial roof replacement?
The contractor will need access to the building for loading, debris removal, and crew access. Noise, vibration, and dust are direct results of construction. Safety should always be the top priority during all phases of the project.
What makes one commercial roofing contractor better than another?
The quality of a commercial roofing project comes down to the experience and commitment of the contractor and tradesmen. Using the proper product, maintaining written safety protocols, and having a proven local history are key. For flat roofing, manufacturer certification and manufacturer-trained crews are critical.
Hire a Team of Roofing Experts You Can Trust
At Kirkness Roofing Inc., we strongly believe that every roof is unique and needs a specific touch of quality craftsmanship. From residential to commercial roofing, we stand tall as a Billings roofing contractor you can depend on to get each job done right—every time. We aren't happy until you love the finished product, and we aren't satisfied unless you love your entire roofing experience.
We want you to be at ease knowing that you chose the right local roofing company for the job. If it's time for your next roofing project, give Kirkness Roofing Inc. a call. We cannot wait to serve you.