Answering Your Questions About Commercial Roof Repair and Replacement
Posted on: 17 May 2017
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When you own a commercial building of any sort, you need to ensure it's in good repair at all times, and this includes the roof. A building's roof helps to insulate the interior, so that less heating and air conditioning escape throughout the winter and summer seasons; the roof also provides structural support to the building, so it should always be strong and well-maintained. Note a few questions you might have about commercial roof repair and replacement so you can discuss your options for this work with a roofing contractor as needed.
Don't all roofs have occasional leaks?
It's true that most roofs will suffer occasional leaks, but this doesn't mean you should ignore the need to repair those leaks, or the need for a new roof entirely. Leaks can lead to mould growth and damage to the building's frame, so that it weakens over time. Leaks can also be dangerous for the electrical systems; if there are any bare or frayed wires in the building's frame, and they come into contact with water, this can cause them to short out. This can also increase the risk of an electrical fire in the building.
A leaking roof also means that your building's air conditioning and heating are escaping through the same area where water is coming into the building. In turn, you're paying more for your utilities. For all these reasons, have a leaking roof addressed as soon as possible.
Will getting a new roof interrupt business?
In many cases, a new roof can be applied to the existing commercial roof without removing any shingles. A latex or foam coating can rolled or sprayed onto the roof, or a metal roof can often be fastened right over the current layer of shingles. If you're concerned about any interruption to your business when you get a new roof, discuss your options with your contractor so you can reduce this risk as much as possible.
What is a green roof?
A green roof involves sections of roofing that contain soil, over a waterproof membrane. Vegetation is planted in this soil, and a watering or sprinkler system is also installed. This vegetation will soak up the sun's rays, keeping the interior of the building cool, and will also help to clean the air around the building. A green roof may not need much maintenance, other than regular checking of the vegetation and watering system, and it can be a very environmentally friendly choice, helping to reduce air pollution and the use of air conditioning in the summer months.