Commercial roofing differs from residential roofing both in materials used and the assembly needed for roof. A commercial roofing contractor deals with a large and detailed draft or mapped plan when beginning roof construction on a tall office building, hotel, restaurant, large apartments or condominium complexes. The main difference between commercial roofs and residential roofs is the size of the roof. Though we use Apartments, Condominiums for residential purpose we still call it as commercial buildings. So generally we classify the buildings into commercial based on their size, height and purpose. For this reason, commercial roof design calls for heavier, sturdier and more robust materials.
Commercial roof construction usually starts with concrete bases being poured (or if pre-poured, carefully laid) to fit with the building structure's top steel beaming and pre-roofing surface. However, commercial buildings roofs are only be handy to building maintenance workers when needed, the final roofing surface is often a moderately wide layer of tarring to prevent any accumulation of water or moisture from damaging the inner roofing. Since commercial roofing construction is completed in larger sections at a time than is most residential roofing, insuring an air and water-tight fixing is crucial to the long-term survival of both roof and building.
Sometimes whole sections of a large office building are replaced, rather than a single small damaged segment with the applied reasoning being that it will be more cost useful to replace the whole segment now rather than wait for further damage and repair each small section as needed. Also, since the larger number of residential structures are decidedly smaller than their commercial opposing partners, and residential roofing (whether tiles, shingles or tar roofing), can easily be repaired or replaced in small segments, whenever there is deterioration or damage, the equipment needed for residential roofing repair is much smaller and less costly that that used in most commercial roofing repair.
The same is true for the work force needed, since often residential roof repairs can be completed by one or two workmen in a short length of time. While one major concern of a commercial roofing supplier, during both commercial roof installation and repair, is assuring the strength and water-tightness of the flat roofing surface, many private residences and apartment buildings have slanted, inclining, or even garret roofing with marginal gutters and drains to eliminate problems from water accumulation. For water, steam and air release, commercial roofing must always work with and maintain clear, unobstructed vents, drains, and submerged (or underlying) piping. These vents are necessary for proper operation of heating, cooling and air circulation systems within commercial buildings while helping to protect underlying and surface roofing materials. Well installed and repaired roofing is uniformly important in both residential and commercial roofing, although very different in nature and maintenance needs.
A residential home will typically only have a chimney jutting out. A commercial building, on the other hand, may have smoke stacks and ventilation systems and pipes, and mechanically wiring, and a roof entrance, and a skylight, etc. All these pose obstacles for the roofer and in some cases so much that a crane has to be called in to aid with the job. Restaurants especially have lots of external machinery on the roof which can cause problems for the contractors doing the roof job.
The products and tools needed for the job can make a difference too. A residential roofer might not have the tools required to handle the bigger scale job of a commercial roof efficiently. They might also not have adequate manpower. There are even new developments in the roofing industry that are bringing about products designed especially for commercial roofing jobs. Products like rubberized roofing materials which are phasing out hot roofing.
The building codes for commercial roofs, warranties are different. It is always advisable to hire a professional roofing contractor who can offer the best warranties from the manufacturers. At the same time it is important to hire the commercial roofing contractor who had been certified in job safety, insured.
So first, you’ll need to find out if your roof is residential or commercial. Most of the time it will be obvious (a house VS a mini mall), but for those that are closer to being both, check with your roofing contractor to find what type of roofing materials serve best for your purpose. Also, make sure that once you know what kind of roofing job yours is, that you hire a roofing company capable of doing that type of job.
Why choosing professional commercial roofing contractor is important?
Springtime tips for your roofing!!!
Spring is here!! Winter season of snow, wind and ice can brutalize home’s exterior, leaving a number of frustrating roofing repairs in its wake. You know when snow and ice accumulate in gutters and along roof ridges; melting water is unable to drain properly. As water backs up behind these ice dams, it can seep under flashing or penetrate your roof shingles, tiles, ceilings and walls—leading to major water damage. Don't wait until the summer high season! However, for much of the country winter never really arrived. This is the best time to start any renovation that your house or building needs.
This kind of weather can lull building owners and managers into thinking that there is no need for any maintenance, repairs or inspection of their roofs. This year’s unusually warm temperatures still gave way to many bitterly cold nights. These drastic temperature changes can result in unusually rapid and frequent expansion and contraction that add wear and tear to roofing membranes and metal components. When spring rains come, as eventually they will, you don’t want the unpleasant surprise of find out your roof system wasn’t ready for them.
By inspecting your roof you can save many hours of inconveniences caused by leaks. These days roofing companies are offering free inspections. Avoid damage by taking the right decisions on time. The first thing is to inspect the interior of the building to identify any moisture that may be entering the building. This is time where you need a professional roofing contractor who can predict the damage that have done and the solutions that can prevent any damage further.
Winter can do many things to your roof. Make sure that all your gutters; drains and scuppers are cleaned during inspection. A professional should check and tighten drain clamping rings that may have been loosened during freeze-thaw cycles. He can also check collector heads for damage to the joints, and make sure scuppers still have good seals to the membrane.
If your roof has any higher areas over lower roof areas, icicles that fall may cause damage to the membrane below. If you have areas where this type of damage occurs, you may want your contractor to install walkway treatments to protect these areas.
You may also want to install walkways from roof access to roof-top equipment. If walkways are not already there, damage may occur from routine equipment maintenance traffic. Spring is the ideal time to do this, before you need maintenance on your rooftop heating and air conditioning equipment.
Roofs that are coated should be inspected for wear. Weather checking and crazing are also indicators that re-coating should be considered. Give thought to re-coating with a highly reflective coating, to give you added energy savings during the summer cooling season.
Steep roofs are not immune to winter’s ravages. Ice dams can damage shingles, breaking seals, loosen gutters and damage tile. If you have metal roofing in snow country, you need to check for missing snow guards or install new ones where you noticed problems with sliding snow. Also, close attention should be paid to those areas that could be damaged by excessive expansion and contraction that a mild winter can produce. Metal expansion joint covers, elastic expansion joint joints, coping cap joints, pipe flashing or gutter joints should all be checked for damage. Your professional roofing contractor has the experience to know where to look for this type of damage.
Now is the time to contact your roofing professional to get your winter damage taken care of and to perform that needed maintenance that can add years to your roof membrane.
Is green roof a low maintenance roof?
All green roof systems should be accompanied by a detailed written maintenance procedures manual or guideline provided by the green roof installation company or system manufacturer. These should include elements such as irrigation frequency, proper weeding and fertilization, as well as recommended methods for dealing with insect and weed infestations, bare and wet spots, and drainage inspection. Some companies also warrant plant coverage for a designated period of time after installation if the required maintenance is performed. Be sure to review and retain all documentation for a clear understanding on warranty and expectations on roof performance and development prior to installation.
A green roof should receive regular visits similar to traditional roofs. Specific maintenance requirements vary depending the time of installation and type the green roof. However, there are basic fundamentals that should be considered essential during a green roof’s typical two-year establishment period.
A certified green roof professional ensures all green roof components are installed properly. Some manufacturers also offer training programs for installation contractors about the proper use of materials. Photo courtesy of American Hydrotech.
Installation Period
During the installation of all green roof components, the following items should be considered top priorities for installation teams and followed up on by facility managers and building owners:
• Ensure all components are being installed as specified.
• Ensure that engineered growing media is at an equal and consistent depth.
• Inspect the placement of all plant material to maximize optimal growth.
• Test and re-test all irrigation systems for proper function. If no irrigation system is currently in place, all plant material should be “watered in.” It is also recommended that a water source be made available on every green roof, regardless of whether a full-time dedicated irrigation system is in place. Simply put, plants need water to thrive, especially in the first few months.
Establishment Period
After installation is complete, a maintenance contract should be instituted between the facility manager or building owner and the maintenance contractor or, more ideally, the installation contractor. In addition to this contract, the following items will also need to be accomplished and repeated during the first 90 days:
• Conduct full a walk-through, with all parties present, before the project is deemed complete. Determine proper installation, and ensure that the contractor addresses any installation issues immediately with installing contractors before departing from job site.
Like all roofs, garden roofs need maintenance and inspection to ensure their longevity.
• Remove and properly dispose of any excess materials or debris from the roof surface.
• Inspect all surface drains and scuppers to ensure each component is also clear of any debris. This element should become habit and second nature to anyone visiting the roof at any time.
• Dependent on various seasonal and regional aspects, the irrigation system may need to be winterized and/or calibrated on an annual basis. Each spring, all zones should be turned on and tested for proper function. It is common that plant material requires a greater amount of water the first 90 days than any other period to get the plants established. If no irrigation system is present, hand watering may be required to ensure that plants successfully move their roots into the growth media.
• Designate a plant manager or plant inspector who is responsible for continually monitoring the media levels, plant material and growth to ensure that any problems are quickly identified and resolved.
Growth Period
The first year is vital to the survival of any green roof installation. If the roof survives this stage, it likely has a great shot at meeting all establishment and warranty goals.
• Inspect all media and roof components for erosion issues and proper irrigation. Any issues should be delivered to the green roof manufacturer immediately. (Note: While some manufacturers are willing to assist their clients well into the “growth” stage of the green roof, others may not be so helpful.)
• In the spring after the first year of growth, a spring clean up is recommended to aid the growth of new plants. All plant material that still has dead flowers or stalks must be deadheaded. All vegetation-free zones (drains, skylights, perimeters) should also be cleared of weeds or encroachment of desirable green roof plants. Any sedum material removed can be used as “cuttings” in the bare areas within the green roof.
• Any plant material that may have perished during the first winter should be replaced at this time. Some manufacturers offer warranties that include free plant replacement.
• Growing media that has eroded due to wind or water should also be replaced. It is critical that a comparable media is used for any replacements. Improper material can result in filter clogging due to high clay content or compaction, which is undesirable to plant roots.
• A final walk-through at the end of green roof warranty period should be conducted. Some green roof companies offer a final walk-through before the warranty expires.
Long Term
These steps are not always necessary but might be crucial to a project’s long-term success:
• As-needed monitoring and testing of the growing media. Some companies have soil experts on staff to give long-term support long after installation.
• Although costly, consider fertilization applications to meet the requirements of certain plants based on their performance. It is advisable that a plant’s fertilization needs are outlined during the design phase of any green roof project. No fertilizers should ever be used without the consent of a qualified green roof professional.
• On a rare occasion, pesticide applications might be required at this stage if there are any issues with insects on your green roof. Utilize an integrated pest management program (IPM), and consult a qualified professional.
• While mechanical weeding is always the most environmental and economical approach, herbicide applications are another possibility of green roof maintenance at this stage. Be sure to consult the local municipality or original design team for permission of use.
Replacing Flat roofs with Metal roofs !!!
Re roofing flat roofs with sloped metal roofs is a new concept that is delivered by the experienced construction experts in these economic times. Interestingly 75 percent of all roofing work is replacement and repair. Industry sources said that annually 40 billion square feet of roofing is installed in United States and they also suggest that 30 billion square feet of roofs needed major repairs in 2009.
By adding slope to an existing flat roof, you can lower your energy costs and little or not maintenance overhead. Mostly, a new roof can be installed without having to remove the existing flat roof. A slope as low as one-quarter inch per foot is sufficient to satisfy most metal roof warranties and can be achieved by installing light-guage steel columns in varying lengths. After the columns are installed , steel purlins are positioned between each of the columns and the necessary bracing is installed. A new metal standing seam roof panel system is then placed on top of this sub framing system.
If properly maintained the exterior surface should last at least 30 to 50 years. Adding fiberglass insulation in the newly created cavity can further increase the building's ability to conserve the energy used to control temperatures in the interior spaces. The cost of installing new metal roof over flat roof is less than the cost of replacement options.
Adding a structural metal roof to an existing building is a smart decision because the system will last for decades. It is also an environmentally responsible choice since metal roofs are manufactured from recycled materials and the system itself is considered almost 100 percent recyclable. Moreover, a metal roofing system allows the use of additional insulation of solar panels that reduce reliance on electric energy.
Shingle Roofing advantages and disadvantages
The most widely used roofing material is the composition shingles, is also known as Asphalt shingles. Before shopping shingles, compare warranties from different manufacturers. Rocket Roofing Corp is the best Roofing Contractor in building shingles roofs in Houston, TX area. Rocket Roofing Corp provides with the best warranties to the customers and a free roof inspection for the building owners. Shingles are available in the common 3-tab style or newer architectural designs that replicate other roofing materials such as wood or slate.
| 3 tab Shingle |  |
| Architectural Shingle |  |
| Designer Shingle |  |
Rocket Roofing Corp is the Shingle Master company. Rocket Roofing corp has the credential SELECT Shingle Master from Certain teed, this is the top level Certain Teed roofing credential, and represents the highest standards of excellence, quality and knowledge in the shingle roofing industry. An SSM has shown extensive knowledge of shingle installation and quality through rigorous testing, and have provided Certain Teed with proof of workers' compensation and liability insurance. Only an SSM can offer you the highest level of Sure Start PLUS™ extended warranty coverage when an Integrity Roof System is installed on your home. Integrity roof system is designed to provide optimum performance no matter how bad weather conditions are. Rocket Roofing Corp installers are Master Shingle Applicators.
Links to our Shingle roofing photo galleries:
Residential Shingle Roofing Photo Gallery
Commercial Shingle Roofing Photo Gallery
Advantages of Shingle Roofing over other roofing materials:
- They need little maintenance when compared to other roofing materials.They can easily be repaired.
- The shingles are flexible and sturdy, so they are compatible with many roof designs.
- Since the shingles come in may textures and colors, you can match your roof to home.
- They are inexpensive
- Asphalt shingles are lightweight and they are suitable to any roof structure where as most of the other materials are heavy and may not be suitable to your roof structures.
Disadvantages of Shingle roofing:
- The Asphault shingles absorb heat from sun and transfer it into home and on cool nights they transfer heat from your home.
- They can be damaged by heat.
- Strong winds can uplift or tear shingles off easily. Tree branches blowing in the wind can also easily damage your asphault roof shingles.
- The durability of asphalt shingles is less when compared to other materials.
- If you live in a rainy area, you may have mildew problems because of the excess moisture. Your Asphault roof shingles may also start to rot if they are located in damp, shady areas of your roof.
If you feel any of these problems, call for a roof inspection. Don't forget that for every problem there will be a solution and Rocket Roofing corp is here to provide with the best solution!
Starting new construction?
You are probably wondering?
- How much will it cost?
- When can the work be scheduled?
However..
Authorities provide valuable insights into making a construction investment
These are the 4 concerns most of the customers have
P1=Problems P3=People
P2=Products P4=Price
P1 = Problems
Determining & Qualifying Your needs
Questions You should ask:
- What is the proper design or scope of the work for your project?
- What are the specifications that will achieve the scope of the work?
- What criteria are required for Contractor Qualification and Selection?
- Does the contractor have adequate insurance?
- What are the risks and liabilities of uninsured, or under insured contractors?
P2 = Product
Satisfaction and Trouble -Free Service
Questions You Should ask:
- What are the preparation requirements that impact long-term performance?
- What are the proper materials for the project?
- Do the manufacturers have any special requirements for their long-term warranty?
- What are the craftsmanship requirements?
- What styles, options, grades, and warranties are available?
P3 = People
Never Buy a product--- Buy a Contractor
Questions you should ask:
- How long has the contractor been in business?
- Is the contractor a member of his trade organization?
- Is the contractor licensed?
- Is the contractor approved or certified by the manufacturer?
- Can the contractor provide references?
P4 = Price
Expense or Investment?
Questions you should ask:
- How do you determine if the price is right?
- Has the contractor worked nearby for price comparison?
- Has the contractor done similar projects in scope and size?
- Are there potential and unforeseen and unknown extra costs?
- What are your options for funding your construction investment?
- Is the contractor's proposal clear and understandable?
Metal Roof Flashing
Metal Roofing Flashing:
Metal roofing flashing is necessary for a variety of reasons. The purpose of roof flashing is to provide a way for water to run off the roof into the gutter system, without being trapped under the roof tiles, causing it to become damaged and ineffective. Metal roofing flashing is used at roof joints where the roof connects to the house. It should be installed when a house is built or the roof is replaced in order to protect the home from leaks, rot or complete damage to the roof. The material used and type of installation will determine the effectiveness of the roof flashing system.
Metal Roofing Flashing advantages:
- Protects the home from Moisture and Leaks.
- Adds to the roof’s duration.
- Low to no-maintenance requirements.
Weather Protection, Contractor Safety Top of Mind in New CertainTeed DiamondDeck Underlayment
CertainTeed DiamondDeck Underlayment is offering best-in-class performance in terms of weather protection and contractor safety, CertainTeed(R) DiamondDeck(TM) underlayment is the newest addition to CertainTeed Corporation’s comprehensive portfolio of roofing products. DiamondDeck consists of a synthetic polymer-based material that replaces the use of, and outperforms, standard felt underlayments.
DiamondDeck is installed on steep-slope roof decks and serves as a water-resistant layer beneath roofing shingles. The product is lightweight, easy to carry and includes a special top surface treatment for superior traction and slip resistance in both dry and wet conditions. The 4-foot wide, 250-foot long rolls help speed application and maximize roofer ergonomics. A light gray surface color keeps the roof cool during installation and creates a more comfortable working environment.
“DiamondDeck is designed to truly meet the needs of roofing professionals working in a real world environment”. “It is a high-performance underlayment that helps protect the installer and preserves the life of the roof.”
DiamondDeck offers exceptional dimensional stability when exposed to moisture and will not wrinkle like felt underlayment, which can impact the overall aesthetics of the roof. The underlayment is resistant to punctures or tears and can be used with asphalt, wood and metal shingles, wood shakes or slate. With six-month UV stability, installation can take place on a more flexible timeline without compromising the integrity of the roof.
DiamondDeck meets the requirements of ASTM D226 and ASTM D4869. For more information, visit certainteed.com
How to choose warranty on your roof?
Most of the roofing contractors may not be recognized by the standard manufacturers so know the facts of warranties before selecting a roofing contractor. For example our company, Rocket Roofing Corp is certified as a SELECT Shingle Master Company by Certain Teed Manufacturer, Recognized Contractor by Weather Bond, Accredited business member of BBB Houston.
- For most home owners there comes at least one time in which the roof on their home needs to be replaced. To protect your new roof investment the most essential component to consider is the warranty coverage offered by the roofing contractor.Essentially there are two types of roofing warranties offered by roofing contractors: Prorated and Non-prorated. Depending upon the terms, generally a Non-prorated warranty is the best option.
- Review the entire warranty contract, clauses, and terms, and be sure to read the fine print. Most states require warranties to be clear and intelligible so it is easy for the consumer to understand. If there is something you do not understand, ask questions! Otherwise you may even ask a friend, relative, or business acquaintance to help explain the warranty terms to you. Do not sign any contracts until you are certain that you understand all of the terms offered.
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Check the reputation of the roofing contractor. Have they been in business for a long time? Are they accredited? What are their affiliations in the business community?
Many building owners have been shammed because although the contractor may offer a good warranty package, their business is not established and for financial reasons the business becomes insolvent and goes under -- either filing for bankruptcy or otherwise becoming non-existent. In those cases you essentially are left with no more warranty coverage and your roof is left unprotected. -
If at all possible you should choose a Non-prorated warranty if it is offered. Non-prorated warranties offer coverage with no hidden expenses for the consumer. If something goes wrong with the roof, or if their were installation defaults of any kind, a non-prorated warranty ensures that all problems or defects are covered by the roofing contractor.
read more about our warranties..
Waterproofing and Dampproofing guidelines
Waterproofing and Dampproofing practices vary considerably in different parts of America because of the variety of weather conditions that exist and the various materials that are available for use. Many times, waterproofing and dampproofing systems are essentially customized to area practices and the time-proven methods employed by individual firms.
Waterproofing: treatment of a surface or structure to prevent the passage of water under hydrostatic conditions.
Dampproofing: treatment of a surface to resist the passage of moisture in the absence of hydrostatic conditions.
Waterproofing systems can be divide into two primary categories.
- Positive(exterior) side waterproofing systems: where the waterproofing membrane/ layer is installed between its substrate and the source or supply of water.
- Negative(interior) side waterproofing systems: where the substrate is between the waterproofing system and the source of water.
- Climate and geographic location
- A building's intended use and design life of expectancy
- Exterior and interior temperature, humidity and use conditions
- Code requirements
- Type and condition of substrate, including soil
- Structural system
- Slope and drainage
- Waterproofing system type including overburden
- Accessibility and building configuration
- Building movement
- Type and amount of insulation/protection/drainage needed
- Need for ventilation during installation
- Compatibility with adjacent building and or system components
- Construction sequencing
- Worker safety
- Potential building additions
- Odors generated by certain system application methods
- water table
- Construction traffic
- Penetrations
- Asphalt built-up membrane
- Coal-tar built-up membrane
- Hot-fluid-applied polymer-modified asphalt membrane
- APP and SBS polymer-modified bitumen sheet membrane
- Self-adhering polymer-modified bitumen sheet membrane
- Buty rubber membrane
- EPDM membrane
- PVC membrane
- One and Two component, fluid applied elastometric materials
- Bentonite waterproofing
- Crystalline Waterproofing
- Cementitious waterproofing
- Elastometric trafiic coatings
- Solvent-based aampproofing mastics
- Bituminous-emulsion dampproofing
New products from roofing manufacturers in February 2010
Roofing manufacturers are trying hard to invent the products for all the problems the building owners have been facing with the weather changes. This year also we have come across some of the new products which are worth to know.
- Extra Traction Leak- Barrier from GAF-ELK
GAF-Elk offers its new Weather Watch® XT extratraction leak barrier as a key part of the company’s Smart
Choice® Roof System Solution. This quality leak barrier protects homes by helping to prevent wind-driven rain or ice dams from forcing water underneath the roofing system. These kinds of leaks often result in costly repairs due to wall and ceiling staining. Weather Watch XT also help to prevent leaks due to water damming up in gutters by creating a 100 percent watertight seal that helps keep moisture out of the most vulnerable areas of the roof. Weather Watch® XT is also great for emergencies, as it can be left exposed for up to 60 days if needed. - Self-Adhesive Membranes from Polyglass
Polyg
lass offers it line of self adhesive modified bitumen membranes formulated with ADESO® technology. This patented technology consists of a “true” SBS or APP compound on the top layer and an aggressive self-adhesive compound on the bottom layer. Polyglass’ SA membranes, PolyFlex® and ElastoFlex® are built with high performance reinforced polyester or fiberglass mat, guaranteeing excellent dimensional stability,
and are available with fire retardant features, and smooth and granule surfaces.
- QuadFlash Boot from OMG Roofing Products
OMG Roofing Products has introduced the QuadFlash pipe boot that provides a fast and
efficient option for sealing single or clusters of rooftop pipe penetrations. Unlike pitch pockets that can crack and fail as penetrations expand and contract, the QuadFlash boot accommodates building vibration and pipe movement to provide a permanent watertight and maintenance-free flashing solution. It is designed for use in many diverse roofing applications and will accommodate up to four pipes ranging in size from ¼ inch to 2 inches in diameter. The boots are immediately available and packaged five units per box, 16 boxes per skid. - Synthetic Slate Shingles from Atlas Roofing
Atlas Roofing knows how tough it is to differentiate yourself from your competition.
With StormM
aster Slate, you will be offering a shingle that every homeowner will love, and will want to put on their roof. Not only will StormMaster Slate provide an estate-class slate look at a fraction of the cost, but it also carries an unprecedented lifetime limited warranty. These shingles are designed to last, and can stand up to anything Mother Nature can dish out. Because of StormMaster’s high performance characteristics, you may find installation of these shingles can reduce rates on their homeowner’s insurance.
