How Do I Protect My Fredericksburg
Commercial Roofing? We Can Help!
Learn About The Common Threats To
Flat Roofs In The Greater Austin Area
Quality commercial roofing in Fredericksburg is essential for the success of your business. It protects your structure, inventory, and the health of your customers and staff. However, flat roofs are a popular style for commercial buildings and are susceptible to some problems.
Flat roofs are common choices for commercial construction because they’re cost-effective and easy to install and maintain. It’s also easier to access these roofs to make repairs.
The external elements are the biggest threat to the safety of these roofs. They can create damage and cause them to be ineffective. Knowing the potential problems and solutions will extend your roof’s longevity, protecting your building for years to come.
At Legacy Roofing Pros, we want you to have a long-lasting roof. To assist you, we’ve compiled a list of some common threats and ways to solve the problems.
Sunlight Exposure On Your Flat Roof
One of the biggest threats to the safety of your flat roof is exposure to the sun’s UV rays. Direct sunlight causes certain ingredients of the tar or asphalt to evaporate. The asphalt can oxidize, making it brittle, and the roof mat can lose its elasticity, flaking off and exposing the felt underneath.
While a pitched roof can provide shade and protection from the sun, a flat roof is exposed. However, there’s an answer to this problem. Cool roofs consist of materials that reflect the sun’s rays. As a result, they make the surface cooler, helping to avoid the problems caused by heat.
There are two ways to create a cool roof – coating and covering. Cool roof coating involves applying a reflective paint layer to the roof. Meanwhile, a covering is a commercial roof replacement. While coatings are easier to install, coverings are more durable and have a longer lifespan.
Water Pooling On Your Commercial Roof
Water is a problem for all roofs because it causes damage to the roofing material. It can make its way into the structure, threatening the building’s structural stability and the health of its occupants.
When water accumulates on commercial flat roofs, it can seep through tiny cracks, resulting in leaks. This is bad enough, but the moisture can turn into ice in freezing temperatures, causing tears or heaving in the roof. Preventing these problems from occurring is essential for the safety of your business.
The solution to this problem is directing the water away from the building. These roofs aren’t completely flat but slightly tilted, so water moves to the edge of the building. Keeping your gutters clear of debris will ensure the water can flow freely through them and away from your structure.
Wind Damage To Your Commercial Roof
Wind can cause damage to your commercial roof directly and indirectly. Strong gusts can get under your roofing membrane and lift it, creating bubbles or tears. It can also blow more rain onto the surface, where it can pool and create problems.
The most susceptible parts of your roof are around the edges, vents, drains, and flashing. You can see this type of damage, which shows itself with bubbles, cracks, or torn membranes.
The best way to avoid these problems is by installing a quality roof and regularly maintaining it. This might include securing your roof with proper flashing and having professional roof inspections.
In addition to finding current issues, inspectors can identify spots that could be problematic later on.
Temperature Changes In The Greater Austin Area
As locals know, Austin experiences different temperatures throughout the year. The summers can be blistering hot, and the winter can bring freezing weather. These weather changes can cause significant problems for roofs.
The change in temperatures can cause expansion and contraction, straining your roof structure and flashing. It can cause the roof mat to tear and the mortar in the coping joints to crack. The result is spaces in your roof where water can enter and cause severe problems.
The solution to this issue is to control the temperature as much as possible. A cool roof is the solution to this issue. Whether you choose a coating or covering, it will create a barrier from the external temperature.
You can also add insulation, which regulates heat flow and prevents these fluctuations.
Call The Professionals To Protect Your
Fredericksburg Commercial Roof
You might think your roof is fine because you haven’t experienced these problems. However, issues could be right around the corner. Preventative maintenance is the best way to avoid roof damage and the potential temporary closing of your business.
Whether you need a roof replacement or a flat roof repair, it’s best to call the professionals. They can inspect your roof to determine the vulnerable parts before the elements begin causing problems.
At Legacy Roofing Pros, we can inspect your flat roof to find vulnerabilities and make recommendations for improvements. If you need a replacement, repairs, or any other service, we can help with those as well.
Are you worried about the elements causing problems for your Fredericksburg commercial roofing? Call Legacy Roofing Pros at 512-256-1330 or visit our website for a free estimate.
