COMMERCIAL ROOFING FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
Frequently Asked Commercial Roofing Questions
You may be asking why is a commercial solar consulting company writing a blog about commercial roofing frequently asked questions? Well, if you hadn’t guessed, the two trades go hand in hand (and if you are evaluating a new commercial roof, you should be evaluating installing solar panels on that roof as well). In addition to lucrative solar incentives that may apply to your new commercial roof (please check with your licensed tax professional), it is important to coordinate the trades on the roof for both scheduling and maintaining the roof warranty under the solar attachment penetrations. By combining the projects into one contract with one point of contact and one warranty, a facilities manager or executive is making their life much easier!
How many years do I have left on my old commercial roof?
To best estimate the remaining years on your commercial roof, you’ll need to know the roof type, age, maintenance history, location, usage levels and quality of installation. A professional roof inspection can also help determine its condition and lifespan. Regular inspections are recommended to catch problems early.
How soon can you start?
Depending on the project scope, permitting needs, and our roofing partners’ current schedule, we may be able to start your project in as soon as a month!
What about building permits?
Building permits are likely needed if your roofing project involves structural changes or extensive repairs. Our commercial roofing partners will submit the required permits and handle the entire permitting process for you, ensuring you have peace of mind. If you choose to install solar panels on your commercial roof this will also be handled on your behalf.
Are you licensed and insured?
All of our commercial roofing partners are fully licensed, bonded, and insured for liability and workers’ compensation coverage.
What is the most common type of commercial roof?
EPDM rubber is the most common commercial roofing material. It is durable, versatile, and cost-effective. Other common commercial roofs include built-up (BUR), modified bitumen, thermoplastic, and thermoplastic olefin (TPO) membranes.
What is the best roofing for commercial roofs?
TPO is an excellent commercial roofing choice with a lifespan of 20+ years. It stands up to weather, resists chemicals and UV rays, and has excellent seam strength. Other top commercial roofing options include metal, PVC, and modified bitumen.
How many layers does a commercial roof have?
Commercial roofs are often multi-layer systems with up to five layers. These include the structural deck, insulation, vapor barrier, waterproof membrane, and, optionally, a protective top layer. Multi-ply assemblies enhance durability.
What are most commercial flat roofs made of?
TPO and PVC membranes are common for commercial flat roofs today. Modified bitumen and EPDM are also widely used. Built-up roofs with alternating bitumen and ply sheets were more popular in the past but are still seen on older buildings.
What is the longest-lasting flat roof material?
Among single-ply membranes, thermoplastics like TPO and PVC last 25-30+ years. Modified bitumen can also endure 15-30 years.
What type of roof is most expensive?
Slate and clay tile roofs are the most expensive roofing types. Asphalt shingles are the most budget friendly. Generally, the higher the cost, the more durable and longer lasting the material.
What is the strongest, longest-lasting commercial roof?
Overall, PVC and EPDM are often considered the longest-lasting commercial roofing materials, with expected lifespans of 30-50+ years with proper installation and maintenance. The specific climate, building usage, budget, and desired warranty length also help determine the best roofing system. Regular maintenance is key for any commercial roof.
What is the best flat roof to have?
TPO is an excellent flat roof choice, offering durability, longevity, and reliable waterproofing. Other top options are PVC and modified bitumen, which also have long lifespans. Fully adhered thermoplastic systems make the strongest flat roof assemblies.
What is the strongest commercial roofing material?
Metal and TPO are often considered the strongest and most durable commercial roofing materials, with the longest lifespans. But factors like climate, roof slope, and budget also impact the best choice.
What is the life expectancy of a commercial roof?
With proper installation and maintenance, a commercial roof can be expected to last anywhere from 10 years (for cheap materials) up to 30+ years for high-quality materials and ideal conditions. Many roof warranties range from 10-20 years. But the roof will need periodic inspection, maintenance and repair during its lifespan.
What goes on a commercial roof?
Common rooftop elements on commercial buildings include HVAC equipment like air conditioners, vents and fans, skylights, smoke hatches, service doors, solar panels or green roofs, lightning protection, communications equipment, signage, and architectural features. These elements on your commercial roof make it imperative to hire a trusted roofing contractor with years of commercial roofing experience.
How thick is a commercial roof?
A typical commercial roof assembly is 1.5 “-7” thick. This includes layers like insulation, cover board, vapor retarder, waterproof barrier, and protective top layer. Thickness depends on insulation needs, roof traffic, and codes. Lightweight options can be as thin as 1/2”. Thermoplastic polyolefin (TPO) roofing membranes are produced in rolls at standard widths of 4, 6, 10, and 12 feet. The thickness of the TPO membrane is measured in mils, with common options being 45, 60, and 90 mils thick. (1-mil = 0.001 inches).
When is the best time of year to get a new roof installed?
How do I find and choose a reliable roofer or roofing company?
BCSC LLC works with several reputable nationwide and regional commercial roofers. We will be happy to refer a commercial roofer to you based on the scope of work, location, and other relevant factors. It is often advantageous to combine your commercial roof project with installing solar panels, to maximize potential Federal investment tax credits: Solar Federal Tax Credit Increases
How can I tell if my roof has storm, wind, or hail damage?
Here are some tips for checking if your commercial roof has storm, wind, or hail damage:
- Look for missing, cracked, or broken shingles/tiles. Storms can tear shingles off the roof or crack them by blowing debris into them.
- Inspect flashings around vents, skylights, and chimneys. Storm damage often tears or dislodges flashings, allowing leaks.
- Check for punctures or soft spots in the roof membrane. Hail can puncture through shingles and membranes, while wind suction can create soft spots.
- Look for water stains or moisture on ceiling tiles or walls. This indicates roof leaks that may be caused by storm damage.
- Inspect roof attachments like HVAC units and vents. Strong winds can tear units loose or bend vents.
- Note any sagging or bowing roof decking. Wind uplift can warp the roof decking underneath.
- Take photos documenting any visible damage or defects. This provides proof when filing an insurance claim.
- Consider getting a professional roof inspection. An expert can check for less visible wind and hail damage, like tiny fractures in shingles.
- Compare the roof to pre-storm photos if available. New damage will be apparent.
Regularly inspecting and maintaining your commercial roof can help detect damage early before further issues arise.
What are roof venting systems, and why are they important?
Roof vents allow air to circulate, preventing heat and moisture buildup that can cause rot and reduce shingle life. Proper ventilation extends the roof’s lifespan. Common vents are ridge, gable, soffit, and rooftop turbine vents.
How can I make my commercial roof more energy-efficient? What are cool roof options? What about solar?
Here are some tips for making a commercial roof more energy-efficient with cool roof options. The state of California now requires cool roofs for most re-roofs and on all new commercial builds.
- Install a reflective roof coating or membrane. These products reflect sunlight and heat away from the building, reducing cooling costs. Popular options include white thermoplastic polyolefin (TPO) membranes and acrylic or elastomeric roof coatings.
- Consider a vegetated green roof. The plants and soil absorb heat and act as natural insulation, lowering the roof temperature. Green roofs also help manage stormwater runoff.
- Install reflective shingles or tiles if you have a sloped roof. Look for products made with reflective granules or coatings to reflect sunlight. Metal roofing, like aluminum, is also quite reflective.
- Add a radiant barrier. A radiant barrier is a thin sheet of aluminum foil that blocks radiant heat transfer in the roof assembly. It can be installed on the underside of the roof deck.
- Increase roof insulation. Adding insulation above the roof deck will reduce heat flow through the roof. Common types of insulation include rigid foam boards, fiberglass batts, and dense-packed cellulose.
- Install energy-efficient rooftop HVAC units. Make sure any rooftop HVAC equipment is Energy Star-rated for maximum efficiency. Consider additional shade structures for the units if needed.
- Maintain the roof regularly to preserve reflectivity and insulation levels. Inspect for damage and recoat reflective surfaces when needed.
- Adding solar panels to your new commercial roof will reduce energy costs while helping your organization maximize available Federal and local incentives.
Contact Us
Want to leverage your new commercial roof and solar project for maximum Federal and local tax savings? Inquire today for a commercial roofing and solar quote through the contact us button below!
This blog provides an overview of the Federal solar tax credit. It does not constitute professional tax advice or other professional financial guidance.
Please consult a licensed tax professional regarding your organizations specific situation as we are not tax advisers.
