If you own or manage a commercial property, you’re bound to be approached by roofing companies offering maintenance, repair and replacement services. Since your roof is a critically-important asset that deserves only the best of care, you’ll want to attract competent, intelligent and professional roofers by taking the following steps.
Get to Know Your Roof System
You might think that commercial roofs are all the same, but in fact, each one is custom fabricated. This means that your roof is similar to other commercial roofs, but unique in its design, its composition and how it’s installed. In order to be an informed roofing customer, you should get familiar with your roof’s:
- Membrane type. It’s vital to know your roof’s composition, and whether it’s single-ply PVC, built-up roofing (BUR), modified bitumen or another material.
- Drainage system. Does your roof have internal drains, scuppers or gutters/downspouts, or a combination of all three?
- Age. The age of your roof is a crucial detail that directly affects the recommendations from your roofer about how to prolong its service life with maintenance or restorative coatings, or how you can best budget and plan for a replacement.
- Warranty coverage. Knowing the length and details of any material warranty that’s in place is crucial because to keep your coverage intact, you’ll likely have to hire a roofing contractor who’s trained and certified by the material manufacturer.
Learn Commercial Roofing Lingo
Once you’re familiar with the type of roof on your property, read up on the terminology that’s commonly used about its different components, as well as the techniques used during installation, maintenance and repairs. Knowing the lingo makes it easier to describe any issues you’re experiencing. It can also help you understand what your roofer is talking about when they’re explaining problems with your roof and recommending solutions.
Stay Aware of Your Roof’s Condition
Knowing the condition of your roof is vital so you and your roofer can develop a maintenance strategy that protects your building and prevents water damage to the structure, interior and contents. Staying up-to-date on the overall condition of your roof can help you keep ahead of developing issues, recognize weather-related damage, minimize foot traffic and plan for rooftop equipment installations so any problems can be addressed promptly and your roof stays watertight.
If you’re in need of expert commercial roofing services in Yonkers and the surrounding areas, contact us at Vanguard Roofing.
