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Debunking Popular Commercial Roofing Myths

Having a well-built commercial roofing system means that you can properly protect your property and your tenants against the elements - and even bolster its energy efficiency and protection. It’s important to take care of your commercial roof properly so that it can continue to perform its purpose of protecting your business, and you can maximize your investment. As such, it’s important to filter out all the myths and misconceptions that hide the truth about the beauty of commercial roofing.



Today, we debunk some of the most popular commercial roofing myths.


Myth 1: Every Commercial Roof Works the Same


When you go out to look for commercial roofing systems, you’ll find out that there are a ton of options available to you. From the different appearance, energy efficiency levels, durability and price point. Here are a few examples of them.


  • Built-Up Roofs (BUR)

  • A built-up roofing system has an expected lifespan of 20 years or more depending on the frequency of maintenance. This commercial roofing system is made with alternating layers of tar and gravel, and it’s one of the most tried-and-tested, flexible roofing materials available on the market. It’s also relatively inexpensive to install and easy to repair. However, it can be difficult to spot roofing leaks as the roofing system ages.


  • EPDM Ethylene propylene diene monomer (EPDM) is a roll-based synthetic rubber roofing membrane. Its appeal comes from the fact that it’s resistant to heat and pollution. Moreover, roofers love working with it since it’s easy to install, highly versatile and long-lasting. However, EPDM roofs aren’t as popular for the masses since they don't have a striking appearance and can be easily punctured if hit by hail or other debris.


  • Thermoplastic olefin (TPO) and Polyvinyl chloride (PVC) These are single-ply or single-layered roofing systems. They are extremely popular in commercial and industrial applications since they tend to be flat or low-sloped. These are lightweight membranes that are resistant to punctures, organic growth and chemical spillage.


  • Metal Roofing Metal roofing has always been a preferred choice by home- and business owners, and for good reason. Your roofing contractors will tell you that it has an excellent fire-resistance rating, making it a safe and durable option. These roofs can be crafted from corrugated galvanized steel, aluminum, zinc, copper, tile sheets and more, and can even last you from decades to even a century!


Flat Roofs Are Prone to Leaking


Every kind of roofing system can leak given the right circumstances, such as the lack of maintenance or inspections, and flat roofs are no different. In fact, flat roofs aren’t totally flat, but they feature a very low slope at around 1/4 to ½ inch per feet, so that it can drain water. This misconception stems from the fact that flat roofs tend to retain water and snow longer than a steep-pitched roof, which requires a different material to keep it watertight against the elements. Flat roofs are designed as a continuous surface that can retain ponding water for a limited amount of time.


The key issue here lies in human error. Nowadays, there are some home- and business owners who attempt to take shortcuts by hiring roofing contractors that just give the lowest bid, skimping out on quality roofing materials and installation skills. Remember that the slightest mistake on flat roof installation can lead to early roofing leaks. Granted, everyone wants to save as much as they can from their roof replacement project, but they’ll find out that they’ll end up spending more by cutting corners since they’ll frequently call for roof repairs and replacements earlier than the expected lifespan.


A Commercial Roof Replacement Will Disrupt My Business Operations


There is some grain of truth to this misconception. Even if a commercial roof replacement can slightly strain your operation, it’s important to schedule your commercial roof replacement in a timely manner to avoid serious issues. If there is a roof replacement project happening in your premises, here are some actions that you can take so that your business can operate as usual while the project progresses:


  • Make Way for the Roofing Crew Similar to roof repair projects, your commercial roofing crew will require ample space in your parking lot for their trucks, supplies and waste containers. Provide a designated space for them, and see if there is enough space for your customers and staff. If not, make proper accommodations for them to safely store their vehicle and equipment.


  • Gauge the Project Length and Noise Level Most of the time, roof replacement projects tend to create a lot of noise, from the hammering of nails to the noise from foot traffic to the equipment being moved around. Try to assess how loud and intrusive the project will be, and get an estimate on how long the roof replacement will last. From here, you can plan your future course of action from your assessment.


  • Gently Inform Your Customers, Tenants and Staff Regardless of your business operations, you should openly communicate to your customers, staff or tenants to inform them of what’s about to happen. You can hold a town hall meeting, shoot them an email or create a social media post regarding the upcoming project. If you’re open during the roof replacement project, post signs nearby to catch the attention of incoming customers, or else they might assume that you’re closed for the day. It’s also worth noting that skilled roof repair and replacement contractors will follow all safety procedures to ensure that your project goes smoothly and safely for everyone’s sake.


When it comes to top-notch roofing services, including roof repair and replacement, A1 Quality Roofing, Inc. can definitely deliver. With our trained and experienced team, we’ll make sure the work is done perfectly right the first time. We proudly serve Corona and all the areas around Southern California. Call us today at (951) 877-4406, or fill out our contact form to schedule your roof evaluation today. We’d love to hear from you, and we look forward to working with you!

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