It’s important to accurately gauge if your building needs a new roof. Commercial roofs are designed to endure. However, if you notice water stains along the ceilings and walls, mold or missing shingles, these cues must be addressed.

Indications of roof issues also include worn roof covers, flaws in the roofing seams, bubbles along the roof cover and gaps in roof flashing. The commercial roof’s age and resulting gradual wear must also be taken into account.

Property managers have four options when they discover flaws in their current roofing systems. Full replacement becomes necessary when over 25 percent of the roof is flawed. Or, a full replacement is ideal when managers want to utilize the latest technological developments in roofing systems and want a long-term solution.

Recover an existing roof if good insulation is in place. Recovering the roof is far less expensive than a full replacement. It is important to note that recovering a roof can only be done once. Keeping costs low leads to repairing the Roof Minor repairs extend the life of the roof. Coat the roof system to protect it from leaks. Save energy with reflective coatings that reflect UV rays away from the building.

Roofing options can be extensive. Common types of roofing systems available in the current market include built-up roofing (roof layers are built up and bonded together); tapered insulation roofing systems (prevents standing water and is ideal for flat roofs without adequate slope); TPO roofs (are fire resistant, flexible and extremely durable); and single ply roofing (delivers exceptional weatherability over the long term).

Green businesses, especially, are more likely to be keen on using an energy efficient roofing system. Property managers may even be required to ensure their roof meets ENERGY STAR criteria. Energy efficient roofs, like reflective roof systems, make it easier to save expenses. Increasing insulation in the roofing system is an alternate method to help meet energy goals.