A well-maintained commercial roof is essential for protecting your building, employees, and operations. When signs of deterioration or damage appear, taking timely action is critical to avoiding costly repairs or operational disruptions. In this guide, we’ll outline the commercial roof replacement process step by step, highlighting each phase—from assessment to completion—to help you understand what to expect and ensure your project’s success.
Estimation and Design: The Foundation of a Successful Project
The process of commercial roof replacement begins with a thorough evaluation of your existing roof. This step is critical as it sets the foundation for the entire project.
- Initial Consultation and Site Visit: Our estimator meets with the building owner or property manager on-site to assess the condition of the roof. This includes taking precise measurements and conducting core cuts to determine the makeup of the roof. We need to know if the insulation is saturated and whether the existing roof needs to be torn off down to the deck.
- Assessment of Structural Needs: We evaluate whether the building’s roof is sloped or flat. For flat roofs, we may need to design and install a tapered insulation system to ensure proper drainage. This step is essential to prevent water pooling and potential future damage.
- Scope and Design Plan: Based on our findings, we design a detailed scope of work, outlining whether a full tear-off or a recover is necessary. This design plan ensures that we approach the project with a clear, tailored strategy.
Material Ordering and Logistics: Getting Ready for the Job
Once the design and scope are finalized, we move into the logistics phase. This is where we ensure everything is in place for a smooth execution.
- Material Selection and Ordering: We select the appropriate materials based on the design plan and order them in advance. Timely ordering is crucial to prevent any delays once the project starts.
- Site Preparation: We coordinate the delivery of materials and necessary equipment to the site. This includes setting up telehandlers, sky track mats, and other essential tools to protect the property’s infrastructure during the roofing process.
- Job Site Management: Every commercial roof replacement project we undertake has a dedicated project manager. Their role is to oversee all on-site activities, ensuring everything runs smoothly and according to plan. This includes managing daily reports and ensuring that any exposed areas of the roof are properly protected during the process.
Roofing Process: The Core of the Replacement
The actual roof replacement is the most visible part of the process, and it’s where the transformation truly begins.
- Tear-Off or Recover: Depending on the initial assessment, we either tear off the old roofing membrane down to the deck or proceed with a recover. If a tear-off is needed, we carefully remove the old materials using trash chutes or boxes to minimize debris and disruption.
- Installation of the New Roof: Once the old materials are removed, we install the new roofing system. This includes applying the new membrane, securing it with fasteners, and ensuring all seams are properly welded.
- Cleanup and Site Maintenance: Throughout the roofing process, we prioritize cleanliness and safety. We use barricades and plastic sheeting to contain dust and debris, ensuring minimal disruption to the building’s interior.
Post-Installation: Ensuring Quality and Compliance
After the new roof is installed, the process isn’t quite finished. We focus on the final touches and ensure everything meets industry standards.
- Installation of Flashing and Gutters: Our metalwork team installs all necessary components, including metal coping, counter flashing, and gutters. These elements are crucial for the overall durability and functionality of the new roof.
- Third-Party Inspection: To ensure the highest quality, we bring in third-party inspectors from manufacturers like Versico or Firestone. These inspectors review our work, checking for proper fastening, seam welding, and overall installation quality. If they identify any issues, we address them immediately.
- Final Walkthrough and Documentation: Once the inspection is complete, we conduct a final walkthrough with the building owner. We provide all necessary documentation, including warranties and any other required paperwork, ensuring the owner has everything they need moving forward.
In Summary: Trust the Experts for Your Commercial Roof Replacement
The process of commercial roof replacement is complex and requires a high level of expertise and coordination. From the initial consultation to the final inspection, every step is crucial to ensure the longevity and safety of your building.
If you’re considering a commercial roof replacement, contact us to discuss your needs and get started with a project that’s tailored to your specific requirements.
