Have you been experiencing multiple roof leaks that you have repaired, but they keep happening over and over again? This is just one example of the need for a new roof, but you understandably don’t want to make any wrong choices when it comes to choosing a reputable contractor to fix the damage once and for all, or install a whole new roofing system.
Understandably, you want to keep costs in mind, since commercial roofing systems can range anywhere from $3 to $10 per square foot, but you also want to select a dependable roofer. Here are four common mistakes building owners make when it comes to their commercial roofs.
1. Failing to Look at Life-Time Costs
It’s a bad financial decision to pay for the cheapest roofing system you can find today but end up paying much more in the long run. For example, a single-ply roofing system could cost you $3.50 per sq. ft. and last for a decade. But at year 10, you could have to remove the entire roof and shell out $3.50 per sq. ft. again, much sooner than you had planned.
2. Failing to Consider Projected Energy Savings
A “cool” roof can save you between 15 and 30 percent on your energy bills each month. A cool roof is usually lighter in color, like white or gray, with more reflective properties than a black roof.
3. Ignoring Leaks
A leak on your roof can happen pretty much anywhere in your building, from the bathroom to the conference room to the kitchen. But usually, wherever water has its first opportunity to enter the building, this usually occurs in a few common areas, such as seams and penetrations.
Over the years, seams lose adhesion and start to come apart, which allows water to travel horizontally through the insulation, then reach the deck and enter the building in a variety of areas. Same with penetrations, which can include ducts, exhausts, and HVAC units.
4. Sticking With a Familiar Roofing System
Change is hard, we get it. It’s easy to stick with what we know. But sometimes, making a change is good, and that applies to your roof too. If you have had a tar and gravel roof for years or decades, whenever it starts to leak, you decide to install the same exact type of roof because it’s just what you know. But when this happens, consider trying something new that may work out better for you, such as:
- Metal
- EPDM
- TPO
- Spray foam
- Gravel built-up
Learn about the advantages of each, then decide on which one will offer the most benefits for your business.
Don’t make the above mistakes when it comes to your commercial roof. Partner with a professional to help you make the best decision possible.
Contact Ferris Roofing Contractors
Make the right choice with Ferris. We have vast experience in installing, repairing and maintaining commercial roofs of all kinds. To learn more or to get a free quote on your commercial roofing system, please contact us at 817-435-4539.