What Happens If Rain Season Causes Your Roof To Flood?

Flooding is a serious and costly threat to commercial properties, and many areas experience extreme weather conditions that can lead to roof damage over time.

What Happens If Your Roof Floods

What Happens If Your Roof Floods?

If your roof becomes compromised, leaks can begin to develop and increase your risk of experiencing a flood. Understanding the factors that contribute to your risk helps you know what to do if the rain season causes your roof to flood.

Knowing the Cause

The best solution to a roof flood can only be applied after determining the exact cause. This depends on the specific construction and materials used for your building. Many building owners learn that their flood issues are a result of the materials used in their roofing system. For example, flashings or seams on your membrane can leak from wear and tear, extreme weather, or incorrect installation.

These factors usually go undiscovered for some time. Having a professional inspect and evaluate your roof on a semi-annual or annual basis (especially after a season with a lot of snow that has melted or extreme cold weather which causes contractions and expansions) helps you determine the exact causes quickly, which will save you from more costly repairs in the future.

Even after proper installation, there is no question that poor weather conditions can cause severe damage to your commercial roof. A professional service company should be called in to assess the underlying materials as these can become damaged and also lead to leakage. Broken or worn skylights or roof flashings are also common causes of leaking and should be checked often by your roofing company.

Getting a Professional Evaluation

In most cases, the exact causes are hard to locate as the sites of leak can often develop far away from the actual cause. Regular professional maintenance is essential to the integrity of your roof as well as to maintain your warranty. Having an inspection gives you an opportunity to have a skilled expert examine all areas of your roof.

Many flat commercial roofing systems begin to deteriorate rapidly within 15 to 20 years after installation, resulting in leaks and different moisture issues. Your roofing company can easily uncover any damage or material loss. This is a valuable preventive measure that prevents more extensive damage to your commercial property.

Some of the things that the commercial roofing contractor may look for when investigating a leak include:

    1. Clogged drainage or water collection

If your commercial building has a flat roof that is not draining properly, water may start to collect if the broken drainage system is not fixed quickly. Blocked drainage is one of the most common causes for roof flooding and leakages. The collected water can add considerable strain to the roofing system, causing roof leaks and possible flooding of your interior.

The contractor will assess the roof drains, scuppers, gutters, and downspouts to clear the way for rainwater to flow freely off of the roof. If the existing drainage system is severely damaged and cannot direct the water properly, a little repair may be necessary.

    1. Damaged perimeter flashing

Roof leakages typically occur at the internal parapet walls or at the external edges of the roof, where flashings have been installed to prevent damage to the ends of the roof membrane cover. But if the flashing is poorly installed, damaged or becomes loose because of storms or winds, the edges of the roof cover can become exposed, allowing water and moisture to get past the roofing system and into the building.

Tears and breakages of the roof flashings are not unusual, considering the constant expansion and contraction of roofing systems as temperatures change from season to season. Damage to the flashings can cause deterioration of the entire roofing system, so they should be monitored for damage and fixed in a timely manner.

    1. Open roof penetrations

Penetrations include drains, pipes, gas lines hot stacks, vents, conduits, HVAC units, and other objects that pass through the roof’s membrane. By their nature, all penetrations are susceptible to leaks, and should be properly secured to prevent water damage to the roofing system.

The roofing contractor should thoroughly assess each and every penetration on the roof to ensure that they are prone to leaks. Roof penetrations can be kept water-tight with pipe boots, rain collars, pitch pans, field wraps, and flashing.

    1. Damage to the roofing membrane

Ageing of the roofing membrane can make the material susceptible to cracking, shrinkage, splitting, puncturing, and blistering, allowing water and moisture to pass through. Damage to the roofing membrane can also expose the roof’s insulation underneath. The main function of the roof membrane is to keep water from getting inside the building. So, it is critical that this membrane be in good condition to prevent commercial roof leaks.

If the roofing company is able to identify damaged membrane in time, they can repair it and avoid a costly full-scale replacement.

Benefits

Some cases may require you to have the materials replaced completely, as with severe damage to the roofing membrane. If so, you need to make sure that the new materials and roofing systems are installed correctly. Re-installing an incorrectly applied roofing system can be expensive and time-consuming.

The Spring season creates a dangerous environment on your roof as snow is melting. Professional roofing companies ensure the highest level of safety for their workers and the occupants inside the buildings as well as the integrity of the roof.

This ensures that you get the best results with minimal risk of injury or damage. You can also have the materials and work warrantied to provide you with an additional level of protection from future roof flooding.

For more information, or to have your roof evaluated, contact our team today.

How To Void Your Manufacturer Warranty

Congratulations on the installation of your new commercial roof that, with proper maintenance, may last the lifetime of your business structure. Or at the very least, you will get to enjoy a few years of zero roofing maintenance costs owing to the long warranty that came with the new roof. Or maybe not!

How To Maintain Your Manufacturer Warranty

Many building owners only look at the length of the warranty without gaining proper understanding of the terms and conditions of the warranty. Failure to understand what is and what isn’t included in the warranty, as well as the conditions of the coverage can lead to unpleasant surprises later on.

As good as warranties seem to be, they are designed to protect the manufacturer more than the consumer. Manufacturers hire teams of lawyers to compose contracts that try to limit their own liability if and when a fault or problem arises concerning their product. As such, there are three questions you should ask yourself before you sign off on your roofing warranty:

What type of roof warranty am I getting?

  1. Manufacturer roof warranty vs. contractor roof warranty
  2. You can get a roof warranty from the manufacturer of the roofing material (manufacturer roof warranty) and from the company installing the roof (contractor roof warranty).

    Manufacturer warranties usually cover only the material, though some cover the entire roofing system. Most manufacturer warranties require the installing contractor to perform warranted repairs for a few years after installing a new roof. Contractor roof warranties, on the other hand, usually only cover workmanship, and not the materials.

  3. Labour-only warranty vs. material-only warranty vs. full-system warranty
  4. Labour-only warranties typically only cover the labour necessary to cater for a roof defect without including the cost of materials. They are offered by the roof installer, and are different from roof workmanship warranties, implying that they may not cover repairs pertaining to installation errors.

    Roofing-material warranties only cover the manufacturing defects and possible premature deterioration for the duration of the warranty; they do not cover the repair costs for leaks. Additionally, they only cover the roof membrane, but not other accessories of roofing systems such as the metal edges, flashings, adhesives, etc. As such, this type of warranty only covers the cost of materials to repair or replace the membrane.

    Full-system warranties cover everything, from the materials to manufacturer approved accessories, flashings, and metal work used in the original installation to the total cost of labour for leak repairs within the terms and conditions of the warranty. Some include workmanship cover, but not all manufacturers offer cover for poor installation.

  5. Workmanship warranty vs. labour warranty
  6. A roof workmanship warranty is the only protection you get from the installer against installation defects. Labour warranties only cover the costs involved in the repair of a defective roof, but not the cost of repairs associated with installation errors or failures. This is why it is critical that you get a reputable company to install your roofing system.

Ensure Your Roof Manufacturer Warranty

What does the typical roof warranty cover?

This depends on the type of warranty awarded. So, always go through the fine print and exclusions to know what is covered, and what may require an extra fee when fixing. Also, some types of coverage may require the installation of certain roof materials, such as high wind coverage or puncture coverage, increasing the overall cost of installation.

Some of the items that may be covered in your warranty include:

  • Roof leak repair
  • High winds
  • Puncture damage
  • Roof hail damage

Those not covered include:

  • Standing or ponding water
  • Consequential damages – interior/equipment damage caused by leaks, floods, tornadoes , fires, etc.
  • Existing moisture during installation
  • Replacement of your faulty roof

How can you void your Roof Warranty?

  • Not performing Regular maintenance – Regular maintenance will prolong the life of any roof. Think of it as an oil change, even when you buy a brand new car you still need the oil changed.
  • Not performing regular Inspections – This should be performed at least once a year, preferably twice. After winter preferably as is the most stressful season for any building envelope.
  • Not conducting additional inspections immediately after extreme hail, heavy rains, fires, etc.
  • Not assuring that your roof is kept clean and free of debris.
  • Not warning equipment servicemen going on the roof to be careful with their tools and materials. The smallest nail can puncture the roofing membrane causing voids for water entry into your building.
  • Allowing unqualified people or businesses to maintain your roof.
  • Allowing up traffic on the roof without ensuring qualifications.
  • Not taking a reactive approach to maintaining your roof.
  • Dealing with firms who will not stand behind their work! No product is better than the applicator.

If you are in the process of buying a new roof, make sure you read through the roof warranty and ask for clarifications where things are not clear to avoid costly surprises.

6 Things You Need To Know About Regular And Engineered Synthetic Roofing Underlayment

Underlayment is the layer of a roof beneath the roofing material and above the roof’s deck. Underlayment is an essential part of any roof – its main purpose being to provide an added seal and prevent leakage into your company’s building.

Roofing Underlayment

Roofing Underlayment

Here are six things you need to know about roofing underlayment:

    1. You may need to include a breathable underlayment in your roof

While the underlayment is designed to keep water from penetrating your commercial roof, your building may require a breathable underlayment. A breathable underlayment would allow water vapour to escape from the roof deck. Without a breathable underlayment, moisture originating from inside a building could accumulate in the roof deck – potentially causing serious problems.

Different types of underlayment materials vary in their breathability. An experienced roofing professional will be well equipped to determine the level of breathability that your roof requires.

    1. Underlay is available in various types of materials

The main types of different materials out of which underlay can be made are tarpaper, roofing felt, and synthetic material. Each of these materials varies in durability, water-resistance and breathability. An experienced roofing professional will be able to help you determine which material is most suitable for you based on your budget, the age and structure of your building, and the material you plan to you to use on your roof’s most outer layer.

    1. Your underlay must comply with relevant building codes

Building codes in many jurisdictions contain specific provisions governing roofing underlay. For example, in Ontario, the installation of underlay is required by the Building Code in specific circumstances. As well, in some jurisdictions, a certain level of breathability in underlay may be required. A professional roofer should be familiar with the relevant building code provisions in order to ensure everything on your roof is up to code.

    1. The method used to install the underlay is also very important

Different types of underlay require different installation methods and the use of different types of fasteners to secure the roofs various layers. The manufacturers of underlay material will generally produce installations instructions – these should be followed closely to ensure the optimal durability and water resistance.

    1. Engineered synthetic underlayment offers more customisation options

Engineered synthetic roofing underlayment is designed to address the requirements for specific applications. For instance, the underlayment used under asphalt shingles requires different criteria from that used for a concrete or clay roof tile. Tile underlayment is typically exposed to a greater volume of water compared to composition shingle underlayment since the latter is the main waterproofing component within that type of roofing system.

Metal roofing, on the other hand, demands an underlayment that is resistant to deterioration and has lower thermal bridging caused by exposure to temperature extremes. A slip-sheet may also be necessary for proper installation on metal roofs.

Direct-deck tile or natural slate installation requires greater abrasion resistance than composition shingle or metal roofing.

    1. The unique features of synthetic underlayment are offered by the polymer coating

The most widely used engineered synthetic underlayment is that developed from polyolefin composition. It comprises woven polyolefin material coated on one or both sides with a polymeric material – combination or variation of polyethylene and polypropylene. The polymeric material is not laminated or even combined with asphalt or paper, resulting in the superior features for different roofing applications.

Some of the physical properties of engineered synthetic underlayment include:

  • Inert:
    It does not absorb moisture or break down when exposed to harsh chemicals or weather conditions. It has superior UV resistance, and will not rot or dry out.
  • Flexible:
    It is always easy to handle even in cold temperatures, yet it does not stretch, expand, or become slippery in hot conditions.
  • High tensile strength:
    It is superior to SBS and felt underlayment, and does not require plastic caps for installation since “tear off” resulting from high wind is practically eliminated.
  • Lightweight:
    Engineered underlayment is up to 5 times lighter than type 30 felt. This means that it can be rolled in larger dimensions for improved coverage and safer installation. It is also more cost effective to ship and transport.
  • Slip resistant:
    Some polymeric underlayment have chemical coatings that offer slip-resistance, while other designs feature woven textures that don’t need extra coatings to make them slip resistant, plus they offer improved recyclability.
  • Produced in multiple dimensions:
    Engineered synthetic underlayment can be produced in a wide range of dimensions depending on the capability of the manufacturer. For instance, while standard felt is available in up to 36-inch rolls, synthetic underlay can be produced in up to 54-inch rolls.
  • Comes with foam laminated layer:
    This is necessary to boost insulation value and cushion for stacking clay and concrete tiles during installation, as well as to guard against thermal bridging for metal roof applications.

If you’re looking to equip your commercial building with proper underlayment, contact Empire Roofing today!

Your All-Encompassing Roofing Contractor Checklist

Installing a roof is one of those things that you may only do once in while in the lifetime of your business, so it can be hard to tell whether the job has been done right and satisfactorily. You are also probably unfamiliar with the right products to use, and the procedures that best address your particular commercial roofing needs. As such, it is important to know that you can trust the roofing contractor you select to offer you the best advice about the products and procedures that may be unfamiliar to you.

A Complete Roofing Contractor’s Checklist

Observe and Interview the Contractor

You cannot select the right professional roofer by simply comparing estimates and prices. You need some time to sit down with each contractor, whether it is the salesperson or contractor himself, so you can discuss the details of your roofing needs. The key is to find the right professional roofing contractor for your job, which you can assess through observation and interviews.

Good roofers take pride in their work, and this should be portrayed by the salesperson representing the company.

  • Does the salesperson/contractor show pride and enthusiasm in discussing previous roofing jobs?
  • Does the salesperson/contractor seem adequately informed about previous jobs? This should tell you their level of involvement in the actual roofing work.

Observe And Interview The Contractor

Other things to look for

The checklist below should help you check the experience, reliability, and reputation of a contractor, as well as their dedication to delivering the best roof system possible.

  • Does the contractor have a legitimate business location (not run out of a home/ pickup truck)?
  • What is the exact business location? Never use a contractor without a physical address. Additionally, a contractor with a nearby office should ideally offer better service and faster response time.
  • Does the contractor have office support staff for customers (is the phone answered by a secretary)?
  • Did the contractor make and keep scheduled appointments?
  • Did the contractor offer personal appointments / site meeting with the owner?
  • Are there service vehicles / reliable transportation?
  • Did the roofer come with a truck and ladder for the estimate?
  • Did the contractor assess degree of deck rot and condition? (rooftop inspection)
  • Was the time taken to explain / review quotation?
  • Did the estimator provide budget / material option?
  • Was the scope of work explained?
  • Were samples provided if asked for?
  • Was company literature provided?
  • Were photos taken?
  • Will contractor have work force capable of carrying out work?
  • Will contractor provide full time onsite foreman available for customer’s access?
  • Did quote specify means to address unknown work/ extra structural deficiencies should they arise?
  • Will manufacturer carry out final inspection upon completion of work?
  • Did contractor provide final inspection checklist?
  • Will contractor carry liability insurance of at least $2,000,000 and provide their policy number? A contractor should carry workers’ compensation insurance and comprehensive liability insurance to protect you in case a roofing accident occurs.
  • Was actual copy of WSIB certificate provided?
  • Is contractor a member of the NRCA (National Roofing Corporation)?
  • Is the contractor in good standing with the BBB?
  • Does the contractor provide 24 hour emergency service? How can you reach them? Will they provide their cell phone information?
  • Does the contractor provide follow-up questionnaire to ensure long term satisfaction?
  • Did the contractor include a copy of product a warranty?
  • Will the company be in business to honour their warranty? What is the proof?
  • Does the company have the financial capability to back their warranty?
  • Can the company provide customer references?
  • Does the contractor have a license? Is it current? Can they provide the number?
  • Has the contractor’s license ever been suspended? Why?
  • Can contractor show completed projects done locally with the type of material you want?
  • How does the contractor handle problems that arise on the job? You can find this out by requesting a referral from a previous job that had a complaint.

Workmanship warranty

Workmanship warranty is usually one year or more, though the length is less important than the ability or intent of the roofer to stand behind the warranty. This can be assessed using customer referrals. Ask the roofer’s customers these questions:

  • Did the roofers perform their work promptly?
  • Were they responsive when asked for changes?
  • Did they act as if they were interested in the interests of the customer?
  • Would they consider the company trustworthy?

Make sure the company’s workmanship warranty (for installation job) and the manufacturer’s warranty (for roof material) specifications are clearly noted in the contract.

Being confident that you have chosen a top-notch roofing contractor will help assure that you get the right roof overhead, that it is properly installed, and that your hard-earned money does not go to waste.