Hi there, local business owner! If you’ve called the East Coast home for any time, you’re likely well-acquainted with the unique weather conditions that can impact your commercial building in Weymouth, MA. Between heavy winter snow, beautiful (often rainy) spring seasons, humid summers, and colorful (yet potentially stormy) autumns, our roofs must be durable enough to handle various changing weather conditions.
Considering these weather challenges, choosing the material for your commercial roof is critical. We’ve been serving the South Shore for years, and we understand the specific needs and concerns that our climate brings. So, without further ado, let’s dive into the different commercial roofing materials available today.
Thermoset (EPDM) Roof Membrane
EPDM, an acronym for ethylene propylene diene terpolymer, is a resilient synthetic rubber roofing material often used for low-angled structures. It withstands the brunt of New England weather, making it a common choice here in Weymouth.
Pros: It’s highly durable, offers excellent UV resistance, and is easy to install, repair, and maintain.
Cons: It’s usually black and can absorb a lot of heat, potentially increasing cooling costs in the summer.
Thermoset, or EPDM (Ethylene Propylene Diene Monomer), roofing is popular due to its resilience and longevity. With proper installation and diligent maintenance, an EPDM roofing system can last 25-30 years, though many can exceed this lifespan.
Maintenance concerns of this type of commercial roofing system include seam failures, creating potential areas for leaks. Furthermore, EPDM roofs are susceptible to punctures and tears, so falling debris could be problematic. Regular inspections and prompt repairs are essential for integrity, as with other roofing types.
While EPDM’s resistance to UV rays and weathering is high, it’s essential to watch for deterioration, such as cracking or shrinking, which could signal the need for repairs or replacement.
Thermoplastic (PVC & TPO) Roof Membrane
Thermoplastic Polyolefin (TPO) and Polyvinyl Chloride (PVC) are similar types of thermoplastic roof membranes. They’re lightweight, highly reflective, soft when heated, and harden when cooled.
Pros: These materials resist UV rays, chemicals, and punctures. This resistance to heat and UV rays helps reduce cooling costs in the summer.
Cons: The installation process can be more labor-intensive, potentially leading to higher upfront costs.
Renowned for their durability and energy efficiency, these roofing systems have an expected lifespan of 15 to 20 years. In some cases, they can endure even longer with expert installation and care.
However, there are specific maintenance considerations to bear in mind. These membranes can be susceptible to damage from punctures and sharp objects, so extra care is needed when working on this surface.
Additionally, the seams, where individual sheets are heat-welded together, can become weak points over time, potentially resulting in leaks. Regular inspections are critical to spot early signs of wear and tear and to address these issues promptly. It’s essential to ensure that the reflective surface of these roofs remains clean to maintain their high energy efficiency.
Regular Maintenance Extends Commercial Roofing Lifespan
Proper maintenance of commercial roofing is a cornerstone in ensuring its longevity and safeguarding the investment in the property. The roof, the first defense against the elements, protects the building structure, contents, and occupants. When a commercial roof is well maintained, it not only significantly reduces the chances of unexpected damage and leaks but helps keep the building’s overall structural integrity, reduces energy costs, and improves the property’s aesthetic appeal.
When we discuss maintenance, it goes beyond routine checks; it includes taking immediate and effective responses to incidents, such as seasonal storms, that could potentially lead to significant damage.
Post-storm inspections are integral to a comprehensive maintenance strategy, as these events can lead to negligible, but not insignificant, damage that may only become apparent over time. A proactive approach towards maintenance, especially following a storm, will help prevent minor issues from escalating into major problems that may cause costly disruptions to operations.
Take, for example, a minor crack on the roof surface caused by a storm. This tiny crack could lead to a significant leak when it rains or snow melts. Leaks can cause water damage, creating a favorable environment for mold growth. Mold threatens the building’s structure and its occupants’ health.
Identifying and addressing issues early through a proactive maintenance program can save substantial time and money, reducing the likelihood of emergency repairs and loss of use.
Routine maintenance adds to the useful life of a commercial roof. When a roof is not regularly maintained, its lifespan can dramatically decrease, which could result in an entire roof replacement much earlier than expected. For many commercial property owners, the maintenance cost is considerably less than a whole replacement, if avoidable.
Lastly, insurance companies often require regular roof maintenance as part of their policy terms. Failing to perform routine maintenance could void an insurance claim, leading to out-of-pocket expenses for the property owner.
Proper and proactive commercial roof maintenance ensures durability and safeguards property investment. And early detection of potential issues reduces repair costs and increases the roof’s life. Whether it’s regular maintenance checks or immediate post-storm inspections, each step contributes to the long-term protection and preservation of the property, serving as a strategic investment toward future stability and sustainability.
The Best Solution For Your Commercial Roof
But one thing remains clear: no one-size-fits-all! Factors including your existing roofing system, structural design, budget, and other concerns will all come into play when choosing the best commercial roofing option for your business.
For example, the flat roofs on commercial buildings present unique challenges, like water pooling after heavy rain or snow. Similarly, extensive facilities require a robust, durable solution to handle wild weather swings. Our team of roofing installation and care experts can guide you to make the best choice for your unique needs, ensuring your roofing system can handle whatever weather conditions Mother Nature throws our way.
Remember, your commercial roofing system is an investment. Choose wisely; it will protect your business, employees, and customers for many years.
We hope you found this post helpful! Please contact us if you have any more questions or need assistance with your commercial roofing project in Newton, Wellesley, Dover, Hingham, Norwell, Needham, Cohasset, Scituate, and the surrounding communities. We’re here to help make your commercial roofing project a breeze!