Maybe you’ve been examining your facility’s roof after it began leaking or sustained storm damage. You might be wondering, should we have it repaired, or should we replace the roof altogether? There is no single, uniform answer to this question. You’ll need to consider multiple factors, including your roof’s materials and structure, your location’s climate and conditions, and the budget you have to work with. However, you can watch for the following signs that you may need to replace your building’s roof:
Extensive Roof Damage
Take time to look at your roof and document any signs of damage you notice. If your building has a sloped roof with asphalt shingles, look for damage such as curled, cracked, or split shingles, as well as any bald or patchy spots. If your building has a flat roof, look for damage to the roof membrane, such as lifting or bald spots. These signs can indicate the roof is not properly sealed anymore. With flat roofs, you should also look for gaps in the membrane, which can show up in an older roof or an improperly installed new roof.
Of course, you should also look for leaking. If your building’s roof leaks extensively, you’re usually better off replacing it rather than trying to repair the roof or patch its leaks. Replacement is often a more cost-effective solution to extensive leaking because, after a certain point, constant roof repairs and patching may end up costing more than a roof replacement, which will last for decades.
Your Roofing System’s Age and Lifespan
Do some research on the lifespan of your type of roof and consider how old your roof is relative to that lifespan. Here are some broad estimates for common commercial roof types:
- Metal roofing: 40-45 years
- Concrete roofing: 40-50 years
- Single-ply roofing: Up to 40 years
- Spray foam roofing: Up to 50 years
When figuring out how far along your roof is in its lifespan, you should consider other factors beyond age, including your location’s climate and its weather and environmental conditions.
Roof Replacement Tips
When you do decide to replace your building’s roof, you should keep these tips in mind:
Research roofing companies and contractors: It may be tempting to hire a roofing contractor based on which one offers the lowest replacement quotes, but that is exactly what you should not do. Ask colleagues and peers who own and operate commercial buildings for recommendations. You should also consult websites like Angie’s List and the Better Business Bureau to find accredited companies and contractors in your area.
Prioritize everything according to your budget: From which materials to use to the possibility of adding new features, such as solar panels, you must consider your budget. Adjust your roofing replacement plans to fit your budget so you don’t overspend on any aspect of it.
Pay attention to building codes: When you have your roofing replaced, you should research building code requirements for your location. By becoming informed about building codes, you’ll be keeping your building safe and in line with local standards and regulations.
California Commercial Roof Replacement
If you would like to replace your building’s roof, or if you have any questions about the process, contact us today. We have been providing roofing services throughout California since 1992, so we have the experience to install your new roof properly, and give you the quality roof that you deserve.