Category: Uncategorized

Categories
Uncategorized

Scheduling a Commercial Roof Inspection Before Buying New Property

Morgantown, WV - 7 July 2020: Aerial view of roofing contractors replacing the old shingles on a townhouse roof
For companies planning to buy a new commercial building, scheduling a commercial roof inspection is an important process to ensure that the roof is in excellent condition before officially buying the property and moving in. If you are considering hiring a roofing company to conduct a commercial roof inspection for a new property, here are some things to know.

Quality Roofs are a Major Value Add or Cost Consideration for Commercial Properties

Whether buying a new property or conducting a commercial roof inspection on an existing structure, inspecting the roof is one of the most important factors in determining the overall long-term value and longevity of a roof. As with any building or structure, roofs are subject to wear and tear as well as exposure to the elements. The inspection can help you avoid costly repairs down the road, preventing you from incurring additional costs. If the roof wasn’t constructed up to par, this can incur significant repair costs shortly after you move in.

Identify Potential Roof Threats and Weaknesses

Another reason to schedule a commercial roof inspection is the assurance that your roof is free from potential threats. As with any other type of inspection, a commercial roof inspection is completed to determine the cause of a problem and identify the best course of action to resolve it. In the case of leaks, for example, having a professional roofing inspector on hand can allow you to identify and resolve the problem before it becomes a bigger issue. This process allows you to move forward with confidence, knowing that your roof will remain in good condition long after your company moves in. New construction should not have a leaking roof.

Understand Durability and Expected Lifespan

No roof will last forever. In fact, depending on the materials used in constructing the roof, you can expect a roof to last between 7 and 25 years. During a commercial roof inspection, the inspector can let you know about the materials used to construct the roof and the expected life expectancy. This way, you can plan as a part of your operational budget for repairs or a roof replacement when considering the purchase of the property. A large roof can be very expensive, so if you would need to replace the roof in 10 years, it is important to factor that into your decision on whether to proceed with the purchase.

A commercial roof is a serious investment. Having it inspected before you buy a new commercial property simply protects your interests. If you have questions about commercial roof inspection in Tampa, contact the commercial roofing specialists in Tampa at Aderhold Roofing.

If you would like to speak with the best commercial roofer in Tampa, please contact us today.

Disclaimer: The information contained in this article is for general educational information only. This information does not constitute legal advice, is not intended to constitute legal advice, nor should it be relied upon as legal advice for your specific factual pattern or situation.

Categories
Uncategorized

Uncommon Signs of a Roof Leak to Look For

Interior Water Spots on Ceiling Mold Disrepair Damage Tiles.
Usually, roof leaks can be easily seen. When there is water dripping on the walls or ceiling, you can easily tell that there are signs of a roof leak. There are some roof leaks that aren’t so easy to spot. There are different kinds of roof leaks, and you have to be able to detect them as soon as possible before they can cause any serious damage. Normally, visible damages are the easiest kind of signs that your roof is leaking. However, there are other signs that you need to pay attention to.

Presence of Mold Growth

One of the first signs of a roof leak is evidence of water damage. If you see a wet spot on your wall or ceiling, check for signs of mold growth. This is most likely the case if the area is also damp or stinking. Look out for areas with discoloration, which might be signs of mold or mildew. Other signs of leaks include evidence of water seeping through the ceiling and around the flashing around the building or discoloration.

Severe Shedding

This might seem like a strange sign of a roof leak, but it’s actually a very common problem for older buildings. Shedding is caused by the roofing materials that have been deteriorating over time. The more the materials have started to deteriorate, the more severe the shed will be as well. If you notice pieces of your roof, including shingles or asphalt granules, shedding, it is a sign that you might have a roof leak.

Condensation on the Wall

If you find dampness or condensation on your walls or ceilings, this can mean that the leak is in one of your roofing materials. For example, if you find that your roofing material is rotten, then this is usually a sign of a leaky ceiling. Other signs of a roofing issue include spots where the ceiling has lifted, signs of excess dirt (not because of a lack of cleaning), or spots that have sunk into the roof.

Bad Odor

When you walk into a building, you may not notice much at first, but over time you will likely notice an unpleasant musty smell. This is most commonly found in basements and attics and is one of the most common signs of a leak. However, there are also instances where the smell just never goes away.

If you notice any of these signs of a roof leak, it is important to have it inspected to stop the leak as soon as possible. Otherwise, more property damage can occur. If you have questions about commercial roof leak repair in Tampa, contact the commercial roof leak specialists in Tampa at Aderhold Roofing.

To speak with a roofing professional regarding commercial re-roofing specialists in Tampa, or to schedule a consultation, please submit our contact request form.

Disclaimer: The information contained in this article is for general educational information only. This information does not constitute legal advice, is not intended to constitute legal advice, nor should it be relied upon as legal advice for your specific factual pattern or situation.

Categories
Uncategorized

When to Schedule a Commercial Re-Roofing

Osgood

Commercial roofs are prone to the same issues as residential or industrial roofs, which means they need to be replaced regularly. It is a large expense for a company to undertake, which is why many hesitate to replace a roof. However, it is important to do so before more serious problems develop. In this article, we discuss when to schedule a commercial re-roofing.

Numerous Leaks

If you have a problem with leaks in your building, it may be time to schedule a replacement for your roof. One leak is not a problem since it can easily be patched, and several sporadic leaks over a long period are okay as well. If you start to have a lot of leaks close together, then that means that your roof is breaking down. Widespread problems like this could be an indication that your roof is slowly falling apart due to aging, wear, or other factors. It is time to replace that roof before it completely fails.

Damage to the Roof Membrane

Roofs are made of multiple layers in most applications, although it is possible to have a single-piece roof. Within those layers is a waterproof membrane that is likely sandwiched between two harder materials. This membrane is what makes your roof waterproof, which is exactly what you want out of your roof. However, it is possible for the roof membrane to be damaged over time.

If you find that the roof membrane has been punctured, take action to address the problem immediately. Have a roofing company examine the damage and develop a plan to remediate any damage. Having a punctured membrane almost certainly guarantees that you will end up with leak issues if the membrane is not resealed quickly.

Excessive Blistering

Blistering is a problem that does not affect most roofs. It happens when a piece of the roof is sealed down, but the center of it buckles under pressure. This can cause the roof to bulge in the center because of heat rising in a building. This can continue to happen and it stretches out the roof material or puts a lot of upward stress on a roof, damaging it in the process. If this continues, it will begin to pull pieces of the roof off or out of place. Unfortunately, blistering is not a problem that can be easily fixed if it happens in large amounts. The outer surface separates from the substrate and will need to be removed and replaced. Trying to restick it to the substrate won’t produce a good roof.

When your commercial roof wears out, don’t hesitate to get it replaced. If you have questions about commercial re-roofing in Tampa, contact the commercial roofing specialists in Tampa at Aderhold Roofing.

To speak with a roofing professional regarding commercial re-roofing specialists in Tampa, or to schedule a consultation, please submit our contact request form.

Disclaimer: The information contained in this article is for general educational information only. This information does not constitute legal advice, is not intended to constitute legal advice, nor should it be relied upon as legal advice for your specific factual pattern or situation.

Categories
Uncategorized

10 Common Commercial Roof Issues You Need to Be Aware Of

Florida Forklift

Commercial roofs can experience significant problems throughout their lifespans. If you own or are responsible for a commercial building, then knowing what to look for in terms of roof issues is important. Some of the most common commercial roof issues you need to be aware of are:

  • Roof Leaks – An opening where water can pass through the outer roof and reach the inside of the building.
  • Flashing Problems – Flashing is the sealing used around items that pass through your roof, like antennas and air vent pipes. If the flashing is not sealed well, it can cause leaks.
  • Poor Installation – Roof work that was not performed properly can lead to damage or shortening the lifespan of your roof.
  • Ponding Water – Water that collects at a low point on the roof instead of running off over the side.
  • Bad Repairs – Repairs that do not adequately fix the problems that you found.
  • Blow Offs – When a chunk of the roof is blown off of the building, leaving the underlayers exposed and unsealed.
  • Billowing/Tenting – Uneven parts of the roof that expand upwards under wind pressure or rising heat from inside the building.
  • Holes from Punctures – Holes that can cause leaks caused by objects breaking through the outer hard layer of roofing.
  • Shrinkage/Expansion – Changes in the size of roof pieces due to tension or changes in temperature, which can crack materials and leave the inner layers exposed.
  • Injuries Related to Roofs and Roof Work – Unsafe conditions that contribute to accidents or dangers to people in and around the building.

What To Do If You Notice These Issues

If you notice any of these issues in your commercial building, it is important to take action as soon as possible. While roofing issues can seem intimidating, having a crew that is certified and can handle your problem quickly makes a big difference in the results. The sooner you act to fix those problems, the less damaging they will be.

Fortunately, many of the issues that affect commercial roofs are limited to a section of the roof rather than the entire thing. Plus, you can find a reputable company to help you fix problems. Repairs are often quick and easy to make, and few require a large-scale replacement of the roof.

It is important to note that repairs to the inside roof need to be made once repairs to the outside roof are finished and tested. While repairing the outside roof may resolve an issue, leaving the inside roof damaged can lead to other problems. Always start with the outside repairs first. They are the cause of the problem, and damage to the inside roof is just one of the symptoms. Fixing the inside roof won’t resolve problems in the outside roof that caused the damage to begin with.

There are many companies that can help you with repairs. Make sure that they are fully licensed before beginning work. If you have questions about commercial roof repairs in Tampa, contact Aderhold Roofing for more information about the next steps.

To speak with a roofing professional regarding commercial roof leak in Tampa, or to schedule a consultation, please submit our contact request form.

Disclaimer: The information contained in this article is for general educational information only. This information does not constitute legal advice, is not intended to constitute legal advice, nor should it be relied upon as legal advice for your specific factual pattern or situation.

Categories
Uncategorized

What to Expect During a Commercial Roof Inspection

Air condition system on the building roof toop

Commercial buildings can have roof problems at a seemingly higher rate than residential or industrial buildings. This is largely due to the overall design of most commercial buildings – the roof is often wide and flat. Because of this, your commercial roof should be inspected regularly to make sure that it is still intact. This is what you could expect during a commercial roof inspection.

Inspection of the Inside Roof

The inspection begins with an inspection of the inside roof. The reason for this is that any damage to the inside roof will show where the problems on the outside are. Commercial buildings nearly always have two roofs: an inside roof and an outside roof. This allows for A/C ducts, electrical wires, and other infrastructure to be well hidden. If there are wet spots on the inside roof, for example, that means that there is likely a leak in the outside roof near the water spots. A skilled inspector can use this information to try to find the leak when inspecting the outside roof.

Outside Roof Inspection

With an idea of what to look for, the inspector will walk around the outside roof. Walking the roof lets the inspector get a very close look at the condition of it. There are many things to look for, such as ponding water, the flow of water, holes, and other signs of serious wear and tear. The inspector will likely begin where the damage to the inside roof, if any, was found. The outside roof damage that led to that will be easier to find by going to the same area.

Taking Core Samples From Your Roof

In most cases, the inspector will take core samples of the roof. A roof is made of layers of material. A core sample shows the condition of those different layers. It is possible that those layers may be breaking down and need to be replaced. Depending on the type of roof that you have, the core sample can show if it needs to be replaced soon or if it could hold up with a basic repair.

Delivering an Inspection Report

Once the inspection is complete, the inspector will deliver an inspection report. The report details everything that was found during the inspection in enough detail so that any contractor can do the repair. Having that report is important since it helps you get the repairs that you need and creates a paper trail of the repairs for the property.

Reviewing Your Repair Options

The inspector will also go over your repair options with you. There are many ways that roofs can be repaired or replaced, which can be confusing. Since the inspector has a good idea of what repairs are needed, he or she can help you through that process.

Getting a commercial roof inspected can be intimidating, but it doesn’t have to be with the right help. If you have questions about a commercial roofing inspection in Tampa, contact the best commercial roofer in Tampa, Aderhold Roofing.

To speak with a roofing professional regarding commercial roof replacement in Tampa, or to schedule a consultation, please submit our contact request form.

Disclaimer: The information contained in this article is for general educational information only and is not intended to be a substitute for professional counsel.

Categories
Uncategorized

3 Ways to Extend the Service Life of Your Commercial Roof

Roof of a commercial building with a external units of the commercial air conditioning and ventilation systems.

As a business owner or facilities manager, it’s extremely likely that you can’t take time out of your busy schedule to perform routine roofing maintenance tasks. In fact, most businesses tend to only look towards the roof when a problem has arisen, like a leak in the roofing system. However, investing in regular maintenance on your commercial roof rather than waiting until there’s a problem could be just the thing to extend the lifespan of your roof and keep your business up and running.

Below, we go over three proven methods of prolonging the lifespan of your commercial roof. If you are in need of commercial roof replacement in Tampa, please get in contact with a member of our team for more information. We will work to inspect and address the problem in an efficient and non-disruptive manner.

Related: How Roof Maintenance Proves Its Worth

1. Make Necessary Repairs As Soon As Possible

Ignoring a glaring issue like a commercial roof leak in Tampa is the worst thing that a commercial business owner or facilities manager could do. That’s because, over time, the problem will only get worse and grow more and more expensive to repair, causing extensive damage to your building in the process. Even more, it may cause your roof to collapse entirely. Conversely, the sooner you treat and correct a problem like a roof leak, the less chance there is that the issue will spread or develop into something much more complex.

Related: Do Repairs Quickly to Protect Your Commercial Roof

2. Keep Nearby Trees Pruned

As most business owners know, trees near your commercial property can offer a variety of benefits, from making your business seem more inviting to helping you save on cooling costs during the heat of summer. Unfortunately, any trees within striking distance of your roof also increase the risk of damage in the event that loose branches either fall or are ripped from the trees as a result of bad weather. To help prevent problems like holes in the membrane and gutter clogging, you’ll want to consider trimming any branches that hang over your commercial roof regularly. Ensure that the branches are at least 10 feet away from the roof to best prevent pests and rodents as well.

Related: 3 Things that Speed Your Commercial Roof Deterioration

3. Keep Your Roof Clean

Depending on the height of your commercial building, debris like gravel, leaves, dirt, and grime can fall onto your roof. Without regular cleaning, this debris can build up, adding weight to your roof, allowing standing water to collect in one area, and creating a welcoming environment for vegetative growth, mold, and mildew to grow. Apart from making your roof more vulnerable to holes and tears, debris will also collect in your gutters and eventually clog them, inhibiting proper damage and leading to leaks and rusting. Regular cleaning is the best way to prevent buckling, remove the unnecessary weight on the roof caused by this debris, and inhibit the growth of moss, mold, and rot. For more information regarding routine commercial roof maintenance or commercial roof replacement in Tampa, please get in touch with a member of our team today.

To speak with a roofing professional regarding commercial roof replacement in Tampa, or to schedule a consultation, please submit our contact request form.

Disclaimer: The information contained in this article is for general educational information only and is not intended to be a substitute for professional counsel.

Categories
Uncategorized

Stay Proactive With Aerial Drone Roof Inspections

Roof of a commercial building with a external units of the commercial air conditioning and ventilation systems.

Most commercial business owners and facilities managers have an “out of sight, out of mind” point of view when it comes to spending money on their commercial roof. Unfortunately, this mentality can lead to serious damage not only to your roof but property and business function as well. The last thing you want to be dealing with is water leaking on expensive equipment, or worse, the heads of your tenants because of a minor leak you failed to notice months ago.

Thankfully, there is a solution. A licensed roofing contractor in Tampa with Aderhold Roofing has the tools, experience, and knowledge necessary to identify issues with your roof before they blossom into major catastrophes with the help of aerial drone roof inspections. Far beyond the constraints of a surface level evaluation, our team uses cutting-edge technology to scour your roof for any potential signs of damage and provide a comprehensive report detailing any issues and the ideal time frame for repairs.

In this article, we’ll be going over what an aerial drone roof inspection is and how it can benefit you as a building owner. If, after reading this article, you feel as if your commercial building could benefit from an aerial drone roof inspection, please get in contact with one of the commercial roofing contractors in Tampa at Aderhold Roofing.

Related: 5 Common Threats to Your Commercial Roof

What Is an Aerial Drone Roof Inspection?

For a commercial building owner, leaks, cracks, ponding water, and other types of roof damage can be an absolute nightmare to locate and repair. This is because, in order to access hard-to-reach parts of the building, a roofing contractor in Tampa must climb atop the commercial roof and manually search for damage. This process is time-consuming, dangerous, and typically requires hours of planning in order to secure the appropriate equipment in order to keep the commercial roofer safe.

An aerial drone inspection circumvents this process by allowing the commercial roofer to capture images of the roof from an aerial perspective via a drone and a connected high-resolution camera device. Not only can these inspections be performed very efficiently, but they also allow the roofing team to prepare a detailed analysis of the data collected with virtually no risk of injury. No scaffolding, no cranes, no lifts, and no work boots upon your roof.

Related: Preserving Your Commercial Roof Investment

How Can an Aerial Drone Roof Inspection Benefit Your Business?

For business owners and facilities managers looking to receive extremely reliable data about the condition of their commercial roof without damaging any of the roofing materials or worrying about inaccessible areas, aerial drone roof inspections are an invaluable resource. Below, we outline several key benefits of aerial drone roof inspections, particularly in regard to commercial roof repair in Tampa.

Provide Consistent and Accurate Rooftop Data

By far, one of the most important benefits of an aerial drone roof inspection is the accuracy and consistency such an inspection can achieve when it comes to rooftop measurements and other simple tasks. Essentially, by taking the human element out of the picture, you’re eliminating the possibility for human error. That means no more twisted tape measures, inaccessible edges, or inconsistent endpoint selection.

The roofing contractor just sends the drone up in the air and, using the latest in mapping technology, is able to capture accurate, real-time measurements of features like square footage, surface area, and slope all in a matter of minutes. Even better, these measurements have been proven via vigorous testing to consistently be over 99 percent accurate. You’ll never have to worry about having to call your roofing contractor back because of missed information ever again.

Act as a Safer, Cost-Effective Alternative to Physical Inspection

After accuracy and reliability of data, the next best benefit of aerial drone roof inspections is the safety and accessibility they provide to roofing contractors. It goes without saying, but being up on a commercial roof produces a whole host of dangers to the inspectors. Falls are actually the number one leading cause of death when it comes to industrial job sites.

With drone inspections, you can practically eliminate the need for ladder assists and the traditional boots-on-roof method of data collection. The amount of time required for these methods and the liability risks involved is most of the cost you’ll end up spending on roof inspections. Eliminate the need for the traditional inspection, and you’re left with a much more cost-effective alternative.

Can Be Used With Non-Invasive Thermal Imaging Technology

Last but not least, another amazing advantage of drone technology is the potential for the use of thermographic imaging, which is used to detect water infiltration in both commercial roofs and facades. The inspector flies a drone that has been equipped with an infrared, high-resolution camera over the building, and the camera is able to access and capture images of the energy patterns being emitted from the roofing system. These images are then interpreted to determine potential areas of trapped moisture.

In the past, this was only possible via the deployment of technicians with handheld infrared cameras to perform assessments. This new method is non-destructive, non-invasive, and can be performed on an annual basis along with other preventative maintenance. Generally speaking, it’s a great way to detect punctures and scarring in the rooftop, exposed edges and corners, pooling water trapped under the roof, and much more.

If your current roofing contractor is not providing the consistent results you wish to see when it comes to your commercial roofing projects or you believe your business could benefit from aerial drone roof inspections, please don’t hesitate to get in touch with one of our commercial roofing contractors in Tampa.

To speak with a roofing professional regarding licensed roofing contractor in Tampa, or to schedule a consultation, please submit our contact request form.

Disclaimer: The information contained in this article is for general educational information only and is not intended to be a substitute for professional counsel.

Categories
Uncategorized

3 Signs You Need to Replace Your Commercial Gutters

Broken flat roof with macro with broken rubber

When functioning properly, your commercial gutter system protects your business from a host of moisture-related problems by directing rainwater toward downspouts and storm drains. However, just like any other component of your building’s exterior, it doesn’t last forever. And when this system starts to fail, you’re bound to begin noticing serious consequences from improperly drained water. From the foundation to the walkways, this may end up costing your business hundreds to thousands of dollars in damage.

Fortunately, with timely inspections and repairs performed by the best commercial roofer in Tampa, these damages can be avoided. For a consultation with a roofing contractor capable of inspecting, maintaining, repairing, or replacing your commercial gutters, get in touch with Aderhold Roofing. For a brief overview of three of the most common signs that your commercial gutters may need replacing, continue reading.

Related: 5 Common Threats to Your Commercial Roof

Mold or Mildew Around the Foundation

Commercial gutters are designed to keep water away from the foundation of your building. Should you begin to notice mold, mildew, or other signs of water around the foundation, then your gutters are not draining properly, and something is wrong. Mold and mildew, in particular, may appear as clusters of white, green, black, or brown specks littered across the foundation of your building. If you’ve seen these types of specks on your building, be sure to schedule for a commercial roofer in Tampa to come out and examine your gutters right away to determine if they’re properly diverting water away from your property.

Related: Is Mold From a Roof Leak Dangerous?

Sagging

It’s a good rule of thumb to ensure that your commercial gutters are securely fastened to your building at all times. They should always be straight and flush with your roof. If your commercial gutters appear to be pulling away from the rest of the building and sagging or seem heavy with water, this is a great sign that your roof inspectors may soon need to replace them. Several factors can cause sagging gutters, including debris, improper installation, age, and materials; however, most gutters only sag when they become too heavy or too full of water to remain in their correct position. So, if they’re sagging, it typically means that they’re not functioning properly and should be replaced as soon as possible.

Related: Why Is My Commercial Roof Leaking?

Cracks and Splits

Cracked or splitting gutters have long been compared to a bucket with a hole on the bottom — ineffective at containing any water. And while large cracks may be plainly visible on dry, clear days, smaller cracks are prone to only reveal themselves during a bad storm. Unfortunately, even the smallest of cracks in your gutter can cause water to leak out or develop into a large fracture, creating massive problems for your building’s entire drainage system. For this reason, it’s important to have the best commercial roofer in Tampa inspect for any signs of damage to your commercial gutters regularly, and especially after bouts of severe weather. Most damage can be sealed with a patching kit but, if left for too long, your only option will be a complete gutter replacement.

To speak with a roofing professional regarding commercial re-roofing in Tampa, or to schedule a consultation, please submit our contact request form.

Disclaimer: The information contained in this article is for general educational information only and is not intended to be a substitute for professional counsel.

Categories
Uncategorized

Top Reasons Why You Should Never Delay Commercial Roof Replacement

Air condition system on the building roof toop

When most people think of commercial roof replacement in Tampa, they typically think in terms of catastrophic roof damage due to hurricanes, tornadoes, heavy rain showers, or other types of natural disasters. However, you may be surprised to learn that the most common type of commercial roof damage that requires a total replacement is in fact cumulative minor damage that simply adds up over time. This type of damage, otherwise known as consequential damage, significantly shortens the lifespan of your roof and gradually leads to major costs in form of property damage and extensive repairs.

If and when the need for replacement arrives, you need to answer the call as soon as possible. Why is prompt commercial roof replacement so essential? The simple answer is, by delaying making contact with roofing contractors like Aderhold Roofing for commercial roof inspection in Tampa, you’ll be taking on a number of major risks. In this article, we’ll take a closer look at the possible consequences of putting off commercial roof replacement for too long.

Related: Why You Need to Plan Now for Commercial Roof Replacement

Damaged Roofs Are Perfect for Pests

As a commercial building owner or facilities manager, you know that having a pest in the roof of your commercial property can be an annoyance, health hazard, and impetus for serious structural damage. The most common pests we see here in the southern half of the United States are mice, rats, termites, bees, birds, and ants, each of which specializes in their own critical type of damage. Termites, for example, will weaken the wooden structure of your roof and loosen shingles or tiles as they develop their colonies in areas of mold or rotting materials. Mice and rats, on the other hand, may chew through a large combination of substances that hold your roof together as well as electrical wires and plumbing. Even worse is that these pests cannot be killed and removed on your own. You will always require a licensed roofing contractor in Tampa to plug up any holes made and implement various prevention methods recommended by pest control and removal experts.

What this has to do with delaying roof replacement is clear. Any perforation in your commercial roof, no matter how small, is a potential point of infiltration for pests and small animals. And once an infestation has begun, it can be difficult to put an end to it. Temporary roof repairs and pest-proofing may prevent these kinds of pests from getting in for the time being, but roof replacement is a much more permanent and effective solution.

Water Damage and Leaks Can Quickly Develop

No one ever wants to see water leaking through their roof; however, normal wear and tear on your commercial roof can easily create numerous opportunities for water to seep in. Even what seems like the most minor damage is prone to creating extensive vulnerabilities. Common causes of commercial roof leaks here in the Tampa Bay Area are ponding water, open penetrations, damaged roof flashing, an aged roof, and more. Most often, issues like ponding water or a weathered membrane are simply caused by your roof enduring normal damage over time rather than catastrophic events.

Unfortunately, commercial roof leaks are a pretty big deal for a wide variety of reasons. If nothing else, you’re bound to see damage to your building’s interior and accelerated aging of your roof. On the other hand, you may be incredibly unlucky and wind up with mold, insect infestations, and slips and falls by employees and other occupants as a result of puddles on the floor. The longer you wait to address moisture and leakages and invest in commercial roof replacement with apartment roofing contractors in Tampa, the worse the problem will become and the higher the cost will grow.

Related: 3 Reasons Why Business Owners Should Never Ignore a Commercial Roof Leak

You’ll Face Severe Structural Damage or Complete Roof Collapse

Apart from the potential for leaks and pest infiltration, damage to your commercial roof that has gone unaddressed can also impact the structural stability of your entire building and, in the worst-case scenario, even lead to a complete roof collapse. One of the most devastating risks of avoiding a long-overdue commercial roof replacement, for example, is the possibility of creating a fire hazard as structural elements fail, water gets into cables and outlets, and damaged breakers and electrical appliances run the risk of sparking and igniting. It goes without saying that you’ll want to do everything in your power to avoid this type of damage.

Fortunately, you don’t have to do it alone. When you partner with a roofing contractor like Aderhold Roofing for commercial roof evaluation in Tampa, we’ll inspect your existing roof and help you gain energy and longevity for your commercial building by selecting a new, modern alternative to your old roofing material. From shingle roofs to thermoplastic polyolefin (TPO) membranes, you’re sure to find an option that brings your building solidly into the 21st century.

To speak with a roofing professional regarding commercial re-roofing in Tampa, or to schedule a consultation, please submit our contact request form.

Disclaimer: The information contained in this article is for general educational information only and is not intended to be a substitute for professional counsel.

Categories
Uncategorized

How Rooftop HVAC Units Can Damage Your Commercial Roof

Air condition system on the building roof toop

As a business owner, one of your number one priorities is keeping your employees, tenants, and other occupants comfortable in your building. To maintain this high level of comfort, business owners and facility managers will often opt to have industrial-strength HVAC units installed on the roof. The subsequent benefits are typically immeasurable, with precise temperature control, reduced energy use, ventilation options, and relatively low maintenance. 

However, while these rooftop units can certainly be kept out of sight, they should not be kept out of mind. Over time, these units can take a serious toll on your roof and should be closely monitored by commercial roofing specialists in Tampa in order to catch a variety of different roof problems. In this brief article, we’ll explain just a few of the most common ways rooftop HVAC units can damage your commercial roof.

Related: 3 Important Reasons Why You Need a Roofer to Work on Your A/C

Faulty Installation

The first and possibly most common way HVAC units can damage your commercial roof is through faulty installation. While high-quality flat roofs are incredibly durable and able to withstand significant amounts of weight, HVAC units are still massive and bulky objects. If such units aren’t installed correctly, they can and will cause damage and deterioration to your commercial roof. For example, many business owners have reported having multiple leaks repaired over and over again, only to find that the true source could be linked back to their HVAC system. 

To avoid a problem like this, you’ll want to have a highly-experienced roofing contractor be a part of the installation process. This is because even installing a new A/C curb involves cutting into the roof deck, attaching the curb, and providing waterproof seals on all four sides. This is not a job that you should trust solely to the HVAC technician.

Condensation

By now, you know that water and commercial roofs are not a good match. Unfortunately, one of the largest issues with rooftop HVAC units is the condensation caused when the unit is running. While rooftop HVAC units typically produce vaporized water that can be released into the air, faulty or malfunctioning units may cause this same vapor to condense and pool at the base of your unit. Another common cause of water pooling occurs when the HVAC technician is incapable of properly installing the unit and instead leaves damage on the surface of the roof membrane, leading to cracks and low spots. 

In either instance, water pooling on your commercial roof can lead to serious problems, such as mold, vegetation growth, discoloration, and structural damage. It can also erode the surface of the roof’s membrane and lead to leaks. The best way to prevent this issue is to have your unit inspected regularly and a proper drainage system installed that funnels excess condensation off of the roof, such as scuppers.

Related: Everything You Need to Know about Leaks and Commercial Roofs

Excessive Foot Traffic

Finally, it’s important to be wary of excessive foot traffic. While having your rooftop HVAC units regularly inspected through routine maintenance is critical to extending the lifespan of your unit and detecting early signs of leaks, HVAC technicians who aren’t trained to work upon your roof can cause serious damage. Even what seems like a minor amount of foot traffic in the grand scheme of things can easily cause strain to the membrane of your roof, leading to cracks, leaks, and other major issues. The best solution to this problem is to first ensure you have established walkways leading to the unit, and second, have one of our commercial roofing specialists join in on the inspection.

To speak with a roofing professional regarding commercial re-roofing in Tampa, or to schedule a consultation, please submit our contact request form.

Disclaimer: The information contained in this article is for general educational information only and is not intended to be a substitute for professional counsel.

Join Our Newsletter »

Receive a FREE drone inspection and 10% OFF your next repair when you sign up today!