As it’s out of sight and usually out of mind, you might not think too much about your commercial roof. Here are a few misconceptions about commercial roofing systems.
Myth: The roof on my commercial building is flat.
Fact: “Flat” commercial roofs are constructed with a slope so that water can flow toward the building’s perimeter that has gutters and downspouts, or toward drainage systems that are located in the interior of the roof surface. If water doesn’t flow, but “ponds” on the rooftop, it can promote mold growth, increase the possibility of leaks and, if not addressed, eventually lead to structural damage. If water isn’t flowing on your rooftop, you may need to have a professional roofer resolve the problem, possibly by installing “crickets” – triangular structures on the surface to add slope to the roof.
Myth: If it’s not leaking, I don’t need to inspect it.
Fact: Your roof is the most important building component when it comes to protecting your facility from the elements. Snow, wind, rainstorms, temperature extremes, intense sun, falling branches and other debris give your roof a beating. And the older it gets, the more vulnerable it becomes to potential damage. At least twice a year you should get on your roof to make sure everything is in order. Better yet, hire Versatile to give it a comprehensive inspection.
Myth: I can take care of any problems on my roof myself.
Fact: Homeowners may be able to take care of minor issues with shingles but flat, a commercial roof is a complex assembly of components that vary by type and manufacturer. Along with the deck membrane, the roof on your building probably includes multiple flashings, drainage systems with scuppers, gutters, downspouts and/or interior drains, perimeter edge details and other unique elements. Commercial roofing contractors have the expertise and materials to ensure that repair and maintenance work is done correctly.
Myth: All commercial roofing systems are the same.
Fact: Some systems are better for some applications than others. For example, PVC roofs are better on restaurant roofs than some other materials because they are highly resistant to exhaust grease and other substances. Highly reflective – “cool” – thermoplastic systems like PVC and TPO can add value to your bottom line, because they reduce the amount of solar heat penetrating your building, in turn reducing the energy needed to cool it. Cool roofing systems can also help extend the life of rooftop HVAC units and maintain the effectiveness of rooftop insulation.
Myth: Buildings in northern climates are better off with a dark roof.
Fact: This stems from a belief that there will be no wintertime heat gain in a building with a white roof, because it won’t warm up from the sun during winter months. But several factors will minimize any potential heat gain from a dark roof. For example, there are fewer wintertime hours of sunlight available and the sun appears at a lower angle in the sky than in summer months. Also, because warm air rises, any wintertime heat will remain at the top of the building, providing minimal benefit to the occupants below.
Here’s another fact you can count on: Whether you’re in need of a complete re-roof, a repair job, or a roof maintenance plan, Versatile Commercial Flat Roofing your best option. We are proud of our history of providing the highest quality materials and workmanship to our customers and we look forward to working with you on your next roofing project. Contact us, today!
