How We Replace A Commercial Roof
Posted on: 30/11/24
Replacing a commercial roof involves several critical steps, and the process may vary depending on the type of roof system (e.g., flat, sloped) and the materials used. Below is a general guide to the steps involved in replacing a commercial roof:
1. Assessment and Inspection
- Roof Evaluation: Before replacing a commercial roof, our professional roofers will conduct a thorough inspection to assess the condition of the existing roof. This includes checking for leaks, damage, and structural issues.
- Roofing System Selection: Based on the assessment, our experts will recommend a new roofing system that suites the needs at the best possible price.
2. Preparation
- Permit Acquisition: In many areas, replacing a commercial roof requires a building permit. Jacob James Roofing will handle this process.
- Site Preparation: The roof must be cleared of any obstacles or debris. This can involve removing old HVAC equipment, antennas, and any other structures on the roof.
- Safety Precautions: Roof replacement is a high-risk task, so safety measures, including proper scaffolding, safety harnesses, and warning signs, are essential and implemented by Jacob James Roofing.
3. Tear-Off (If Necessary)
- Removal of Old Roofing Material: If the existing roof needs to be completely replaced, the old roofing materials are removed, including shingles, tar, and insulation, to expose the roof deck. This can involve tearing off layers of material and disposing of them properly.
- Inspection of Roof Deck: After the old roofing system is removed, the roof deck (the surface that supports the roofing system) is inspected for any damage. If necessary, repairs are made to the roof deck before proceeding.
4. Installation of New Roofing System
- Preparation of Surface: Before the new roofing material is applied, the surface of the roof deck is cleaned and any necessary repairs are made to ensure proper installation.
- Installation of Insulation: A layer of insulation may be installed, depending on the building’s needs. Insulation helps with energy efficiency and ensures proper drainage.
- Underlayment Installation: A protective underlayment may be applied to provide an additional layer of moisture resistance and protection for the new roofing material.
- Installation of Roofing Material: The primary roofing material (e.g., TPO, EPDM, or modified bitumen) is applied. This can involve:
- TPO or PVC: These materials are rolled out and welded together at the seams.
- EPDM: Rubber sheets are installed and sealed together.
- Modified Bitumen: A torch or adhesive is used to apply the material in layers.
5. Flashing and Sealing
- Flashing: Flashing is installed around edges, penetrations (e.g., vents, pipes), and any other areas where the roof meets walls or chimneys to prevent leaks.
- Sealing: All seams and joints are sealed to ensure the roof is waterproof and airtight.
6. Final Inspections
- Inspection and Testing: Once the new roof is installed, the contractor performs a final inspection to ensure the roof is properly installed and free of any defects.
- Waterproofing and Leak Tests: Sometimes, a water test or a thorough inspection for potential leaks is done before the project is officially completed.
7. Cleanup
- Removal of Debris: All construction materials, waste, and debris are removed from the site.
- Disposal: Old roofing materials are disposed of according to local waste management guidelines.
8. Warranty and Maintenance
- Warranty: Most commercial roofs come with a warranty that guarantees the materials and craftsmanship for a specific period (often 10 to 30 years).
- Maintenance Plan: We may offer or recommend a maintenance plan to inspect the roof periodically, ensuring it remains in good condition and extending its lifespan.
9. Post-Installation
- Owner Walk-Through: Once the project is complete, We may walk the owner through the new roof to ensure satisfaction and explain any features.
- Documentation: All documents related to the roofing system, including warranty information, installation manuals, and inspection reports, Will be provided to the building owner for future reference.
Key Considerations:
- Weather Conditions: Roof replacement is typically done during dry weather to ensure proper installation and adhesion of materials.
- Downtime and Access: Depending on the complexity of the roof replacement, there may be temporary shutdowns of certain building operations, and access to the building may be limited during the process.