Category: Commercial Roofing

Of all the questions you ask your commercial roofers as you decide on the best materials for your roof replacement, one probably tops your priority list. “How long will this roof last us?”

 

You’ve probably noticed that roofers refuse to pinpoint an exact number. Instead, they may tell you a new EPDM roof can serve you well for 22 to 35 years, or that metal roofing materials may last 30 to 45 years — or even longer. 

 

That’s because plenty of things impact the timing of a commercial roof’s “expiration date.” You can’t change your local climate, but you do have control over many other factors — including your ventilation system and commercial roofing insulation. The Number One thing every business can do to make their roof last longer? Taking commercial roof maintenance seriously. 

 

You want to get the best possible return on your investment, and if you take good care of your commercial roof, it’ll reward you with a long life of service. Here’s what you need to know — so that you can see where you’re currently falling short.

 

What to Do	Why It Matters
Get 2 Roof Inspections Every Year	Spots small issues before they get bigger.
Clean Debris and Gutters	Prevents damage, leaks, and structural issues.
Check Seals Around Penetrations	Ensures no leaks around HVAC or vents.
Hire Professionals	Saves money in the long run and protects the roof lifespan.

 

Get Those Twice-Yearly Commercial Roof Inspections Taken Care Of

 

If you’ve worked with the Severe Weather Roofing and Restoration team before, we’re sure our roofers really pushed the importance of twice-yearly roof inspections (once in spring and again during the fall). Those regular inspections aren’t just part of our bread and butter — they’re absolutely critical for your bottom line, too. 

 

When you call our crew to assess your roof’s condition, we give everything that could possibly go wrong with it a thorough look. Our commercial roof inspection checklist takes us through:

 

• Your roof’s surface, so we’ll spot any punctures, cracks, blisters, or ponding water.
• Your flashing, which can loosen or become damaged over time (and especially in severe weather).
• Your roof penetrations (around skylights, vents, and similar rooftop installations), which are your roof’s weakest points. 
• Your drains, gutters, and downspouts, which often get clogged and may be damaged.
• Any commercial roof coatings you may have had installed to breathe new life into an older roof.
• The guardrails and other safety features that keep anyone who needs to get up on your commercial roof secure. 

 

This kind of commercial roof preventative maintenance catches small problems before they become minor doomsday scenarios and saves you money on the major roof repairs you’d need in that case. Just as importantly, regular commercial roof maintenance also sets your roof up for the longest possible lifespan. 

 

Universal Commercial Roof Maintenance Tips Every Business Owner Should Be Familiar With

 

Not every commercial roof maintenance step calls for a commercial roofing team. There’s plenty you can do yourself, too — and making a commercial roof maintenance checklist of your own is always a good idea. Fortunately, the most important points everyone involved in maintaining a commercial roof should know about are simpler than you may think. 

 

Keep your roof clear of falling leaves, twigs, and other debris to slash the risk of punctures, algae growth, and pests, and to make it easier to spot budding problem areas. Have your roof cleaned regularly, and especially after heavy wind, hail, or other roof-risking weather. Oh, and don’t forget about the pesky job of getting your gutters cleaned! 

 

Make sure the professionals involved do a great job at maintaining roof penetrations that don’t directly fall under a roofer’s purview, like HVAC units or ventilation systems — including proper seals. Ask your roofers which chemicals can risk your commercial roof’s structural integrity and avoid using them. Never let unqualified people up on your roof. 

 

Beyond that, the best thing you can do as part of your commercial roof maintenance program is to add your next roof inspection date to your calendar right after our team is done with one. That way, roof inspections will never slip your mind. 

 

And if you notice any potential issues between the two roof inspections? Call your roofing team right away. After all, getting any repair needs taken care of now is the best way to make sure your small repair needs don’t morph into a sentence no business owner ever wants to hear. “We’re very sorry, but the repairs would be so extensive that it’s better to get a roof replacement.” 

 

If you do all of this, you’re well on your way toward helping your roof hit the upper limit of its expected lifespan! 

 

Need a Commercial Roof Maintenance Team Right Now?

 

Whether you need commercial roof maintenance tips geared to your roof (EPDM, TPO, metal roofing, PVC, or built-up roofing), or this quick list of maintenance steps made you remember you haven’t had your roof inspected in a while, we’re here for you.

 

With over a decade of experience in the field, our commercial roofing company in Fort Collins can set you up with a commercial roof maintenance program that’ll keep your roof going strong for as long as possible. If you’ve got a roofing emergency, we’ll be right over — and if you simply want to do everything in your power to protect your commercial roof, grab a free and fair estimate for regular maintenance!

There are plenty of things about your commercial building that you’re more or less stuck with. They include the building’s age and design, the size of your windows, and the flow of people and goods in and out of your building. All of these factors can leave you vulnerable to heat loss or penetration. 

 

The good news? If you were to take just one step to improve your building’s energy efficiency, roof insulation would be a great bet. One National Insulation Association study showed that commercial roof insulation alone has the potential to slash your utility bills by 10 to 45 percent, and that opportunity is too good to pass up. 

 

Are you already gearing up for a commercial roof replacement? Don’t miss the chance to choose the best commercial roof insulation for your needs. Know nothing about that? Start right here! 

 

What Makes Commercial Roof Insulation So Important? 

 

That’s an excellent question precisely because not everyone understands the extent to which the best insulation for commercial roofs can make a difference. You already know that proper insulation keeps utility costs down, but beyond that clear and tangible benefit, you’ve also got a few other reasons to go above and beyond. 

 

Colorado doesn’t have statewide building codes for insulation, and instead relies on the International Energy Conservation Code for its commercial roof insulation requirements. You’ll want to look at the commercial roof insulation R value to make sure you’re compliant. 

 

While R values get complicated, higher numbers indicate better insulation. In Fort Collins, which is in Climate Zone 5, most commercial buildings are required to have roof insulation with R values between R-20 and R-30 to be compliant. That’s one reason your commercial roof insulation is important. 

 

You might have compelling reasons to do more than what’s required, though. The best roof insulation can make your commercial roofing materials last longer, lower noise pollution, slash maintenance costs because you’ll have less weather damage, and even improve the air quality in your commercial building. 

 

Plus, you’re sending the right message to your investors. You’re committed to keeping your carbon footprint down and making sustainable choices for the future! 

 

What’s the Best Energy Efficient Roof Insulation for Your Colorado Commercial Building?

 

If you’re getting ready to replace your commercial roof, you have a great opportunity to reevaluate your insulation — and there are more options than you might think! Most energy efficient roof insulation can be installed alongside all of the most popular commercial roofing materials, including TPO, EPDM, PVC, and commercial metal roofing. They’ve all got their own pros and cons. 

 

Polyisocyanurate Foam Insulation

 

Polyisocyanurate insulation is relatively environmentally friendly, easy to install, and offers a high R value. Although it can fail in places that get very cold, it’s a great choice for Fort Collins. Even better? While it’s among the most energy efficient roof insulation options, polyisocyanurate foam isn’t expensive. 

 

Fiberglass Batt Insulation

 

Fiberglass is another very popular type of commercial roof insulation installed in “blankets” (called batts). It’s affordable, suitable even for irregular roof shapes, and eco-friendly. Its noise-canceling properties also come in handy if your commercial building generates many decibels. 

 

Spray Foam Insulation

 

Your roofing team applies this unique type of commercial roof insulation in liquid form, after which it expands to fit the space. Spray form insulation has a very high R value, and we can apply it even in very tight spaces. 

 

Expanded Polystyrene Insulation

 

Expanded polystyrene (EPS) insulation is a lightweight and rigid board option that offers a cost-effective solution for insulating commercial buildings. Its affordability makes it an attractive choice for business owners looking to enhance energy efficiency without exceeding their budget. EPS is versatile and compatible with a variety of roofing systems, making it a practical option for diverse building types.

While it may not offer the same level of durability as some other insulation materials, EPS can still provide reliable performance in meeting building code requirements and improving thermal resistance. Additionally, its lightweight nature makes it easy to handle and install, reducing labor time and costs.

EPS insulation works well for businesses aiming to stay compliant with insulation R-value requirements, particularly in areas like Fort Collins, where meeting climate zone standards is essential. However, if your building is exposed to heavy wear or extreme weather conditions, you might want to explore pairing EPS with other protective layers to extend its lifespan and optimize performance.

When budget-friendly solutions are a priority, EPS insulation proves to be a viable and effective choice for keeping utility costs down while maintaining comfort and energy efficiency.

 

Reflective Insulation

 

 

Which Option Is Suitable for Your Commercial Building?

 

Just looking at that list of popular options — and believe us, there are more — may cause you to wonder what you’re missing. After all, they all serve the same purpose, albeit in slightly different ways. 

 

There’s no such thing as the best insulation for commercial roofs across the board. Just the best option for your specific building and use case. Don’t worry, though. You don’t have to research all your options on your own. The Severe Weather Roofing and Restoration crew is always available to advise you on your options, in line with the goals you’ve set yourself for energy efficiency.

 

Excited About Commercial Roof Insulation That Can Help You Cut Costs and Go Green?

 

We’re here to help. When you schedule your free roof inspection and consultation for commercial roofing services in Fort Collins with our crew, we’ll go over all your options and make a recommendation. Write down all your questions ahead of time so we can answer them fully and help you make an informed choice! 

 

Whatever insulation option you choose, the Severe Weather Roofing and Restoration team only works with high-quality materials from reputable manufacturers. If you’re ready to bring those R values up and your utility bills down, give us a call today!  

Choosing an appropriate roof for your commercial building can be tough. After all, there are many factors to consider, and your business depends on it in many ways. 

 

Many types of commercial roofing systems can be pricey, and this is why it’s important to weigh through the cost and quality ratio. There are some great choices of commercial roofs for a good and fair price. 

 

Other concerns that business owners may have are maintenance requirements. There is no roof that doesn’t need a good upkeep at least once in a while. No matter which type of commercial roofing you choose, be sure to always choose reliable, local roofers. It’s important to have roofers available at all times because you don’t want to put your company in danger by postponing roofing works. 

 

In this blog, we’ll guide you through some types of commercial roofing that we always suggest. From our experience, these systems provide good quality, are fairly priced, require an understandable amount of maintenance, and of course, provide great protection for the owners’ businesses.

 

Without further ado, dive into our guide to commercial roofing options!

Commercial Roofing Systems

 

Modified Bitumen Roofing Systems

 

These are popular as commercial roof choices due to their durability and flexibility. Because of the asphalt and various modifiers in their structure, modified bitumen roofs are weather-resistant and have enhanced strength. They can also put up with a lot of foot traffic and are considered to be a reliable and cost-effective option. 

 

Metal Roofing for Commercial Buildings

 

This is a popular roof choice amongst energy-efficient commercial roofing systems. Besides that, metal roofs are known for their longevity, low maintenance needs, and durability. They can be made out of various metal materials like aluminum, steel, or even zinc. 

 

These are a great option for industries where fire can be a hazard since they are fire resistant. Also, due to their light weight, they are a super choice if the structural integrity of the building is in question. 

 

TPO Commercial Roofing Systems

 

Because of their cost-effectiveness and low maintenance, commercial flat roofing systems are highly used for business property purposes. One of the choices here, except for the aforementioned modified bitumen, is TPO, or thermoplastic polyolefin.

 

TPO roofing is a mix of rubber and plastic, which is resistant to UV rays and chemicals. It is typically white, so its reflectiveness can help reduce cooling costs in the summer months. This type of roof is also waterproof since its seams are heat welded. 

 

Commercial Roof Drainage Systems

 

When talking about flat roofs, drainage systems are really important for preventing pooling, leaking, or structural damage. These include internal drains, gutters, scuppers, and downspouts. All of them are designed to draw water away from the building. By installing proper drainage systems, you are prolonging the lifespan of your business property and minimizing maintenance or repair costs. 

 

Commercial Roof Coating Systems

 

Costs of industrial roofing systems can vary, but quite often, they are substantial. Because of the initial cost, many business owners hesitate to choose the best commercial roofing systems. Commercial coatings are a great cost-effective option for enhancing the longevity of your existing roof. These coatings are actually a seamless layer of silicone, acrylic, or polyurethane. They can seal leaks, slow down a process of further deterioration, and improve energy efficiency. 

 

Choose a Reliable Roofer

 

If you are looking for a reliable commercial roofing contractor in Fort Collins, think about Severe Weather Roofing & Restoration. We have years of experience in commercial roofing and a lot of happy clients with a durable roof above their company buildings. 

 

Mid-season is perfect for commercial roof repair, so if you doubt your roof performance in the upcoming winter, it’s always better to be on the safe side. 

 

Give us a chance to ensure your company’s safety, and call us right away! 

Are you postponing repairs on your commercial roof in Fort Collins, CO? Well, you may be putting your business in danger. If your roof is damaged, immediate repairs are necessary. No matter the damage, the state of your roof could get worse.

 

Due to their minimal pitch, water build-up isn’t uncommon in commercial roofs. This is why leaks and mold growth or even structural damage could be a potential problem. Not only that, but postponing repairs also means paying higher repair prices in the future because the damage will be worse. 

 

Roof damage often implies energy inefficiency. Damage means air leaks, compromised insulation, or hot and cold spots. Either way, the HVAC system is trying harder and harder to maintain equal temperature. Therefore, expenses are getting higher. 

 

Stalling Hurts Your Business

 

Altogether, higher prices, your business at risk, compromised safety, and potential legal problems are the aftermath of not repairing your roof on time. It is just not worth it, especially during mid-season, when it’s the perfect time for commercial roof repair.

 

In the following blog, we will write about why now is a great time to get to grips with your damaged roof. We’ll also bring up some useful commercial roof maintenance tips so you can try to avoid those in the future. So, if you are a business owner, this blog about commercial roof repairs in Fort Collins is for you! 

 

• Moderate Temperatures and Weather Stability

 

Repairing or replacing your roof in mid-season can prevent future issues. Many types of roofs are installed using various adhesives and coatings which need mild temperatures to cure properly. If the weather is too cold, adhesives may not activate. On the other hand, if it’s too hot, they might become too sticky. Mild temperatures can provide better bonding of the roofing materials. Of course, a good roofing company in Fort Collins, CO, like Severe Weather Roofing and Restoration, will take care to activate these adhesives and coatings using the appropriate tools. But when talking about roof work, it’s always a good idea to be on the safe side!

 

Also, stable weather is good for roofing projects and keeping to a deadline. There is a lower risk of severe weather (see what we did there?), and therefore, delays are not as common as in summer or winter. This way, everything is in your – and our – control, which gives us all a sense of security.

 

• Cost-Effectiveness and Energy Efficiency

 

In the mid-season, roofers have less work. There are fewer emergencies, and the demand for roofing work is lower. This is a good thing because it will be easier for everyone to schedule their own appointment. In commercial roofing, this is quite a challenge since business owners have a lot of preparations to do before the final work, and all of them affect their productivity. In mid-season, there is a greater chance that we can adapt to your schedule. In this way, you can organize your roof work to minimize money loss and maximize productivity.

 

You can also save on HVAC systems. Since outside temperatures are stable, it is easier for your HVAC to maintain comfortable inside temperatures. Even if the roof isn’t protecting the building completely as it should, your HVAC bill will still be cheaper.

 

• Thorough Repairs 

 

In the mid-season, there is no pressure of urgent repairs that are the result of weather conditions. In that way, we can make a very thorough commercial roof inspection because there is less worry about patching things up on a leaky roof before the rain starts. This means that your roofing contractors in Fort Collins, CO, will be able to completely devote themselves to your roof. Consequently, they will reveal even the most hidden potential problems. 

 

• Preparations for Winter

 

There is one more reason why this mid-season before the winter is the right time for commercial roofing in Fort Collins. Roof maintenance before the winter is a popular recommendation given by many roofers, and this way, you kill two birds with one stone. Your roofers will find any signs of future vulnerabilities that snow or ice may trigger and address them on time. 

 

Get the Best Roofer

 

Whatever type of business you have, a good roof over it is a must for your peace of mind and the safety of your employees. This is why it’s essential to choose a proper roofer amongst all roofing companies in Fort Collins, CO. 

 

Severe Weather Roofing and Restoration has years of experience as a leading commercial roofing contractor and numerous happy clients that we’ve worked with. We’ve ensured their business is safe and can do the same for you! Contact us today!

As it turns out, your roof might be trying to tell you something. You don’t need to wait for a major leak to disrupt your business. There are signs that anyone can recognize. The red flags should never be ignored. And if there are any of these warning signs, then you are in need of urgent commercial roof maintenance or roof damage repair in Fort Collins.

 

Today, we’re going to talk about the top 5 signs your roof needs repair. Let’s get right into it.

 

1. Leaks

 

The roof leaks in commercial building setups can cause a lot of damage. It’s very important to fix these issues before they grow. Ask anyone offering commercial roofing in Fort Collins, CO, and they’ll tell you that it’s leakage issues that take the crown when it comes to roof problems faced by businesses. And that’s because it’s very easy for roofs to get damaged just enough for water to seep through the cracks and crevices.

 

Typically, commercial roof leaks are caused by a damaged roof membrane or substrate, drainage system issues, defective seals, damage to the flashings, and extreme weather.

 

The bottom line is that if you’ve got water dripping from your ceiling, it’s a pretty safe bet your commercial roof needs some serious attention. Now, leaks can be sneaky little devils, sometimes showing up far from the actual source of the problem.

 

2. Missing or Damaged Shingles 

 

Now, this isn’t a concern if you have EPDM roofing in Fort Collins, CO, or even metal, but in case you have a roof with shingles, it’s a big warning sign if one of those is damaged or missing. This is a recipe for disaster.

 

Think of your shingles like a suit of armor for your roof. They’re the first line of defense against the elements. So, if you start seeing shingles that are missing, cracked, curled, or otherwise damaged, it’s like your roof is walking around with holes in its armor. And that’s not a good look. Not only do damaged shingles compromise your roof’s protection, but they also make it look downright shabby.

 

3. Blistering and Bubbling

 

If your roof starts looking like it’s got a bad case of chickenpox, it’s definitely time to worry. Blistering and bubbling on your roof’s surface usually indicate trapped moisture underneath. This can be caused by a number of things, like poor ventilation or improper installation.

 

Left unchecked, these blisters can lead to leaks and more extensive damage. So, if you see any bubbling or blistering, don’t pop them! In these cases, you need proper commercial roof repair done by a professional. In several cases, a complete roof replacement in Fort Collins, CO, might be required.

 

4. Ponding Water

 

Your roof is designed to shed water, not hold it. So, if you see water pooling on your roof after a rainstorm, it’s a major red flag. Ponding water puts extra stress on your roof’s structure and can lead to leaks, rot, and even collapse in extreme cases. It’s like having a mini swimming pool on top of your building – and that’s definitely not something you want.

 

If your roof is collecting water, then you need the help of an expert commercial roof repair company to take care of the damage before it becomes too big to solve. Browse among the best roofing contractors in Fort Collins, CO, talk about the issues you’re facing, and get a quotation from them. A lot of them offer free consultations.

 

What’s worse is that pooling water can cause leakage issues, which can further supercharge the rate at which your roof is getting damaged from all sides.

 

5. Sagging Areas

 

If any part of your roof is starting to sag, it’s like a canary in a coal mine – a clear sign that something is seriously wrong. Sagging can indicate structural damage, which is a major safety hazard. It’s important to address this issue immediately to prevent further deterioration and potential collapse.

 

It’s another recipe for disaster.

 

Without proper commercial roof maintenance, this can happen over the years. Out of all the commercial roof problems, this one can be the most dangerous if left unchecked or unnoticed. The structural integrity of any roof or building is compromised in a different way. It depends on the size of the building, construction material, weather, temperature, and a bunch of other variables.

 

So, whereas it’s possible to approximate what kind of damage (and when) you’re looking at if your roof is leaking a particular amount of water or if X number of shingles are missing, a sagging roof might collapse tomorrow or a month later.

 

In any case, you need to call up someone specializing in commercial roof repair and have them inspect it closely.

 

Wrapping Up

 

And there you have it. Never gamble with your roof’s health and go for commercial roof repair ASAP. Sure, you can follow some commercial roof maintenance tips to prevent damage, but it’s not too rare to find buildings and construction that suffer damage from the elements over time. And that’s when prompt repairs become extremely important. Use all the tools at your disposal, from a commercial roof inspection by qualified roofing professionals to manual checks for any signs of roof damage – it’s your investment, after all.

 

Of course, it’s not always easy to recognize these warning signs, nor is it possible for business owners to take the time to do inspections or schedule regular checkups on their own. That’s why we highly recommend a commercial roofing specialist in Fort Collins for businesses. Not only will it be more efficient, but the professional touch also ensures you’re getting the best care for your roofs. Get in touch with Severe Weather Roofing today!

So, you’re dealing with an aging low-sloped roof that will need to be replaced sooner rather than later — or you’re constructing a new building? The unique characteristics of flat roofs call for specialized roofing materials.

As you dive into your options, you may find yourself dazzled and confused. However, one type of roofing that should definitely be on your radar is EPDM roofing. This single-ply membrane roofing system is currently the option of choice for around 20 percent of all flat roofs in the United States.
In this guide, we’ll take a look at (almost) everything property owners should know about EDPM roofing, whether for new constructions or flat roof replacements.

What IS EPDM Roofing?

Without getting too technical, EPDM stands for Ethylene Propylene Diene Monomer — a bit of a mouthful, we know. These roofing systems, which ship in massive rolls, consist of four distinct layers that are built to withstand some of the most severe weather conditions.

These membranes are designed to overlap during the installation process, providing a beautifully waterproof roofing system that’s ready for anything and can last as long as 50+ years with the right care and maintenance.

What Is the Color of EPDM Roofing?

The days when EPDM roofing was only available in black rolls are over. EPDM roofing materials are now on the market in white, reflective rolls known as “cool roofing,” too. This gives property owners the option of choosing the most suitable roofing solution for their circumstances.

While black EPDM roofing absorbs heat, which can help snow melt more easily, white roofing materials bounce heat off your building, potentially reducing your energy bills. It’s exciting to have the choice, and a variety of factors, including the aesthetic that best fits your building, come into play when deciding.

Is EPDM Roofing Easy to Maintain?

Like any other roofing system, EPDM requires periodic inspections and maintenance. However, the material was first introduced in the 1950s, and many EPDM roofs installed decades ago are still fully functional. In the event that the roof membrane is punctured, experienced roofing contractors can install patches to protect the roof’s structural integrity. EPDM roofing is also available with several different levels of thickness, giving property owners more control over the strength and weather resistance of their chosen roofing system.

When Is EPDM Roofing the Right Choice?

If you’re at all familiar with different roofing systems, you may think EPDM roofing is only suitable for large commercial buildings with low-sloped roofs.

You’d partially be right. EPDM roofing, also called rubber roofing, is often an ideal solution for warehouses, schools, manufacturing facilities, hospitals, and similar commercial buildings. Because of the way EPDM roofing is installed, roofers can make quick work of the process, even on a massive scale — resulting in flexible, durable, and low-maintenance roofing that will last for decades.

However, EPDM has more residential applications than you might be aware of. Rubber roofing is not just an excellent option for modern homes with flat roofs, but it’s also often ideal for garages, garden sheds, patio covers, dormers, and even mobile homes.

Exploring EPDM Roofing Options?

You’re in luck; the Severe Weather Roofing & Restoration team is just a click and a call away.

With free consultations on offer, we’ll help you determine which kind of EPDM roofing in Fort Collins is most suitable for your building, and when you’re ready, our trained roofers stand ready to install your brand-new roof in no time.