Tag Archive for: Roofing Contractors Atlanta Ga

Avoid catastrophic financial loss and indefinite business closure from a collapsed commercial roof. Knowing the warning signs that indicate an imminent roof collapse and taking preventative measures can save you from such a disaster.

commercial flat roof collapse

New Image Roofing Atlanta gathered information to help you detect and prevent an unthinkable commercial roof collapse.

Signs of an Imminent Roof Collapse

The following signs indicate something is terribly wrong with your roof and/or building structure. Be on the lookout for the following:

1. A Sagging Roof or Ceiling – If your ceiling or roof starts to sag, contact your roofing company immediately. This signals structural failure that needs to be investigated and corrected before your roof fails.

Solution: Immediately call your roofer, and be prepared to call a general contractor.

2. Leaking Roof or Water Stains on the Ceiling – A leaking roof is never a good sign. Roof leaks indicate water is reaching your roof’s support structure and potentially causing devastating damage. Any time your roof leaks, it is alarming and needs to be fixed promptly.

Solution: Once you spot a leak, have your roofer:

  • Identify the leak source
  • Evaluate any sustained damage
  • Provide a detailed quote for immediate repairs

3. Misaligned Sprinkler Heads and Ceiling Tiles – If your ceiling tiles or sprinkler heads are out of alignment, your ceiling has shifted. Ceilings are not supposed to move.

Sprinkler and tile misalignment before commercial flat roof collapse

Solution: If you detect a sudden or developing misalignment of your ceiling tiles or sprinklers, call a professional roofer and/or general contractor to discover why and immediately correct it.

4. Difficulty Opening or Closing Doors and Windows – Similar to ceiling tiles or sprinkler heads being out of alignment, if your doors and windows have become increasingly difficult to open or close, structural shifting has likely occurred. This shifting can cause your roof’s support system to buckle and fail.

Solution: If your doors and windows have become difficult to open or close, call a professional roofer and/or general contractor to discover why and immediately correct it.

5. Cracks in Exterior Walls – Cracks in the masonry on the exterior of your building are a clear indication of uneven settling or severe structural issues. It could signal that your roof has become unstable and is nearing premature failure.

Solution: Have your building engineers inspect the structure and request a roof inspection from your roofer to evaluate the roof’s integrity.

Note: Cracks in the interior walls, support columns, and ceiling also indicate potential structural issues. These cracks should also be promptly investigated.

Severe Weather Damage

Severe weather commercial flat roof collapse

Depending on your region, many weather-related factors can cause or contribute to severe roof damage and failure:

Your roof should be inspected immediately following severe weather events. Ensure your roof/building insurance covers damages from specific weather events.

Solution: Purchase a maintenance program with an annual inspection/report provided by your roofer. Most maintenance programs include a severe weather clause in which an inspection team is automatically dispatched after severe weather events.

Watch this video for more information on insurance, deductibles, and how New Image Roofing Atlanta can help you with a claim.

Roof Equipment Installation

Installing new equipment on your roof may add considerable weight. In some cases, you may exceed your commercial roof load and put the roof and building’s integrity at risk. When planning to install equipment on your roof, calculate your roof’s dead load, live load, and transient load capacity to avoid exceeding your total roof load capacity.

Excess equipment weight commercial flat roof collapse

Solution: Find your building’s roof load on the blueprints used to construct your commercial structure. If your blueprints are unavailable or lost, you can obtain copies from your city planning department (a copy should have been submitted to ascertain permits when the building was constructed). You can hire a general contractor to evaluate your structure and calculate its roof load.

Ponding Water

Ponding water happens when a roof’s drain systems get clogged, the roof is poorly installed, or the roof is poorly maintained. Regardless, ponding water adds immense weight to your roof structure. When this water accumulates and persists, your roof’s load may be exceeded, leading to failure.

Ponding water before commercial flat roof collapse

Note: One gallon of water weighs 8.34 pounds; 100 gallons of rainwater can add 834 pounds of dead weight to your roof.

Solution: Keep your roof debris-free by purchasing a maintenance program with seasonal or annual inspections/cleanings provided by your roofer. Have any overhanging branches pruned away from your roof.

Creaking and Popping Sounds

Popping and creaking sounds in buildings are often dismissed as normal (as if the building is “settling”). Never assume your building is just settling. These sounds may be occurring due to structural defects or failure.

Solution: If you hear these sounds, have your building engineer and roofer investigate them immediately.

Building Shift

If your building exhibits the following signs, it may indicate a structural shift:

  • Floors become warped/uneven
  • The building “feels” tilted
  • Support columns and vertical installations appear angled

Building support columns commercial flat roof collapse

If your building has shifted on a structural level, your roof may fail, and your building may collapse.

Solution: When the above signs are recognized, your building engineer or general contractor should be called to investigate this immediately.

Signs of a Potential Commercial Roof Collapse

In this article, you discovered signs that your commercial roof is failing and how to prevent an unthinkable and deadly commercial roof collapse.

Recognizing roof failure signs (and resolving them) protects your business’s assets and avoids a potentially lethal situation. Failure to act on signs of your roof’s structural failure can result in catastrophic production and financial losses if the roof collapses.

If your commercial roof collapses, all production will cease, and the building will close until your roof is replaced and OSHA inspectors allow reoccupation. Your insurance claim can be denied if the collapse results from a lack of maintenance or a preventable structural failure.

Sources:
osha.gov/emergency-preparedness/guides/structural-collapse
eng-resources.uncc.edu/failurecasestudies/building-failure-cases/hartford-civic-center/

  New Image Roofing Atlanta
 

    2020 Howell Mill Rd NW Suite 232
    Atlanta, GA 30318
    (404) 680-0041
 

Avoid severe structural damage and tenant complaints when your apartment building’s roofing system ages and leaks. Understanding when multi-family dwellings like apartment and condo buildings a roof replacement helps prevent structural water damage, annoying leaks, and angered tenants.

Apartment building shingle roofing

New Image Roofing Atlanta gathered information about when an apartment building’s roof should be replaced, how maintenance programs help save money, the asphalt shingle roof installation process, and the different shingle types best suited for apartment buildings.

Signs an Apartment Building Roof Needs to Be Replaced

Commercial apartment building aging asphalt shingle roofing

As a roofing system endures extreme weather and ages, it will begin showing signs that it is reaching its functional limit. The following signs will help determine when your apartment building’s roofing system should be replaced.

1. Aging and Lifespan

Asphalt shingles typically last between 20 and 30 years. If your roof is nearing or has exceeded this age range, it’s likely time for a replacement.

2. Curling or Buckling Shingles

Shingles curling at the edges or buckling are weathering and potential failure indicators. This can lead to water infiltration and further structural damage.

3. Missing Shingles

Commercial apartment building missing and damaged asphalt shingle roofing

Missing shingles expose the roof to the elements, leading to leaks and severe structural damage. If shingles frequently come off, the roof may need a replacement rather than repairs.

4. Granule Loss

Asphalt shingles are coated with granules that protect them from UV rays. Finding granules in gutters or downspouts indicates significant wear. Bald spots on shingles where granules are missing signal that the shingles are failing.

5. Water Leaks and Stains

Commercial apartment building asphalt shingle roof leak

Water stains on ceilings or walls inside the building suggest the roof no longer provides adequate protection. Persistent leaks, especially after rainstorms, signal that the roof needs replacement.

6. Sagging Roof Deck

A sagging roof deck points to serious structural issues. This could be due to prolonged exposure to moisture or severe damage to the underlying supports, necessitating immediate roof replacement.

Why You Should Have a Maintenance Program

Inspection and maintenance commercial apartment building asphalt shingle roofing

Maintenance programs pay for themselves over time by addressing minor issues before they develop into significant repairs and staving off premature replacements. Here are five other reasons to sign up for a roof maintenance program:

1. Prolongs Roof Lifespan

Regular maintenance, including inspections and minor repairs, can extend your asphalt shingle roof’s lifespan. Identifying and addressing issues before they escalate prevents premature roof failure.

2. Cost Savings

A proactive maintenance program is more cost-effective than emergency repairs or a roof replacement. Regular maintenance helps avoid significant damage that could result in costly repairs.

3. Preserves Building Integrity

A well-maintained roof protects the apartment building’s structural integrity. Preventing leaks and moisture infiltration keeps the building safe and habitable for residents.

4. Increases Safety

Ensuring the roof is in good condition prevents potential hazards like falling shingles or structural collapse, keeping residents safe.

5. Improves Energy Efficiency

A well-maintained roof provides improved insulation, reducing heating and cooling costs. This is significant for apartment buildings where energy efficiency can significantly impact operational costs.

Apartment Building Roof Replacement Process

Commercial apartment building replacement process asphalt shingle roofing

Understanding an apartment building’s roof replacement preparation, steps, and progression helps property managers or owners inform residents when and how long to expect activities and noise during a roof replacement. Here is how the process goes:

1. Inspection and Assessment

A professional roofer inspects the roof, assessing damages and determining if a replacement is necessary. This includes examining the shingles, underlayment, and roof deck.

2. Choosing the Right Shingles

Property managers or owners must select the appropriate asphalt shingles based on durability, aesthetics, and budget. Options include three-tab shingles, architectural shingles, and luxury shingles.

3. Installation or Repair Estimate and Budgeting

Obtain detailed estimates from reputable roofing contractors. Budgeting the project includes materials, labor, permits (where required), and potential additional costs for structural repairs.

4. Scheduling the Replacement

Coordinate with the roofing contractor to schedule the replacement. Consider weather conditions and minimize disruption to residents by planning the work during suitable times.

5. Preparation

Ensure the site is prepared for the roofing project. This may involve:

  • Moving vehicles
  • Preserving landscaping
  • Protecting trees and surrounding soil
  • Determining sufficient space for dumpsters and/or lifts or cranes
  • Notifying residents of the work schedule

Tip: Always verify local land and tree preservation ordinances during any construction project (including roof repair and/or replacement).

6. Removing Old Roofing

The existing shingles and underlayment are removed. The roof deck is inspected for damage and repaired as needed. This step is crucial for ensuring a solid foundation for the new roof.

7. Installing New Underlayment

A new underlayment is installed for protection against moisture. This helps in extending the life of the new shingles.

8. Installing New Shingles

Installation commercial apartment building asphalt shingle roofing

The new asphalt shingles are installed according to manufacturer specifications. This ensures proper alignment, nailing, and sealing for maximum durability and performance.

9. Final Inspection and Clean-Up

After installation, a final inspection ensures the roof meets quality standards. The site is cleaned up, and any debris is removed. A professional roofer will check for any issues and make necessary adjustments.

10. Warranties

After a final inspection and the final payment, labor and material warranties are issued to the property manager or owner.

Watch this video to see a recent apartment complex’s roof replacement by New Image Roofing Atlanta.

Asphalt Shingle Types

Asphalt shingle roofing systems for apartment or condo buildings offer numerous benefits, including durability, cost-effectiveness, and visual appeal. Knowing the different shingle types available in the market and their advantages and disadvantages can help make informed decisions for the building’s roofing needs. Consider the following shingle types:

1. Three-Tab Shingles

Commercial apartment building asphalt three tab shingle roofing

Description: The most basic and economical option, featuring a flat appearance with a uniform shape.

Advantages – Cost-effective, easy to install, and suitable for various architectural styles.
Disadvantages – Shorter lifespan and less durability compared to other types.

2. Architectural Shingles

Commercial apartment building architectural asphalt shingle roofing

Description: Also known as dimensional or laminate shingles, these offer a layered, three-dimensional look.

Advantages – More durable, longer lifespan, and aesthetically pleasing with various styles and colors.
Disadvantages – Higher cost compared to three-tab shingles.

3. Luxury Shingles

Commercial apartment building asphalt luxury shingle roofing

Description: High-end shingles that mimic natural materials like slate or wood shake.

Advantages – Superior durability, enhanced aesthetic appeal, and extended warranties.
Disadvantages – The most expensive option, requiring a higher initial investment.

Note: Steel and metal roofing systems have an increased potential for rust formation. This is due to their iron content that mixes with environmental oxygen and water. However, this is never the case with asphalt shingles.

Read more about asphalt shingle production and types at newimageroofingatlanta.com/residential-roofing-what-you-need-to-know

Asphalt Shingle Roofs for Apartment Buildings

In this article, you discovered crucial information about when an apartment building’s roof should be replaced, how maintenance programs help save money, the asphalt shingle roof installation process, and shingle types best suited for apartment or condo buildings.

Knowing the signs indicating a roof needs replacement, a roof maintenance program’s value, and the roof replacement process are crucial for property managers and owners.

Ignoring your apartment or condo building’s roofing needs will leave you with leaking roofing systems, severe structural damage, and angry tenants.

Sources:
basc.pnnl.gov/resource-guides/asphalt-shingle-roofs
portfolio.newschool.edu/ruthd/2023/10/28/3-good-reasons-to-install-asphalt-shingle-roofing
asphaltroofing.org/a-simple-guide-to-understanding-your-asphalt-shingle-roofing-system
owenscorning.com/en-us/roofing/shingles

  New Image Roofing Atlanta
 

    2020 Howell Mill Rd NW Suite 232
    Atlanta, GA 30318
    (404) 680-0041
 

Avoid installing an inefficient, high-maintenance residential roofing system. Knowing the extreme benefits and durability of low-slope roofing systems will help you determine which roofing system to install on your Atlanta, Georgia, home.

Atlanta Georgia residential low slope roofing

New Image Roofing Atlanta gathered information detailing low-slope roofing system advantages and environmental benefits.

Residential Low-Slope Roof Energy Savings

Considering a residential low-slope roof can provide numerous benefits. From energy savings to maintenance advantages, a low-slope roof can be a wise investment for Atlanta homeowners looking to enhance the functionality and efficiency of their homes. Consider the following low-slope roofing advantages:

Enhanced Reflectivity and Cool Roofing Options

Atlanta Georgia residential low slope roof installation

A significant low-slope roof advantage is its potential for energy savings through enhanced reflectivity. Low-slope roofs can be equipped with “cool” roofing materials that reflect more sunlight and absorb less heat than traditional asphalt roofing. In a city like Atlanta, where summer temperatures can soar, having a reflective roof can significantly reduce the heat entering your home.

“Cool” roofing materials like TPO (Thermoplastic Olefin) membranes or specially coated reflective shingles can keep your home cooler. This means your air conditioning system doesn’t have to work as hard, leading to lower energy bills. According to the U.S. Department of Energy, cool roofs can reduce energy costs by up to 50% in the summer.

Read more suggestions about home design efficiency at energy.gov/energysaver/efficient-home-design

Improved Insulation

Atlanta Georgia residential low slope roofing insulation

Low-slope roofs also permit better insulation options. Because the roof space is more accessible and typically has less pitch, making high-quality insulation installation and maintenance easy. Insulation helps maintain a consistent indoor temperature, reducing the need for heating and cooling throughout the year.

Low-Slope Roofing Maintenance Benefits

Atlanta Georgia residential low slope roof maintenance

Low-slope roofing systems are significantly safer to inspect and repair than sloped roofs. Technicians can normally walk and work on low-slope roofs without using cumbersome ropes and bulky harnesses (simple tie-offs help prevent falls). Consider the following maintenance benefits:

Easier Access for Repairs and Inspections

Another low-slope roof advantage is easy maintenance access. Flat or nearly flat roofs are safer for professionals to walk on, making regular inspections and repairs less cumbersome. This accessibility ensures that issues can be detected and addressed promptly before they escalate into significant problems, extending the roof’s lifespan.

A minor leak in a low-slope roof can be easily detected and repaired, preventing water damage and mold growth, which are common concerns in the humid Atlanta climate.

Read more about fall protection systems and guidelines at osha.gov/sites/default/files/2018-11/fy14_sh-26317-sh4_FallProtectionChecklist–English.pdf

Durable Roofing Materials

Low-slope roofs can be constructed with durable materials to withstand extreme weather conditions. Materials like Modified Bitumen, EPDM (Ethylene Propylene Diene Monomer), and TPO are extreme temperature, UV radiation, and chemical exposure resistant. These materials have a long lifespan and require less frequent maintenance than traditional roofing materials.

In Atlanta, where weather can range from scorching heat to heavy rain, having a roof made from such robust materials means less worry about weather-related damage and fewer maintenance costs over time.

Effective Water Drainage Systems

Atlanta Georgia residential low slope roofing drain

Despite common misconceptions, low-slope roofs are designed with efficient drainage systems that prevent water pooling and leaks. Modern low-slope roofing systems incorporate slight pitches and advanced drainage solutions, like internal drains, scuppers, and gutters, to ensure water is effectively channeled off the roof.

This drainage is crucial in Atlanta, where sudden thunderstorms bring heavy rainfall. Properly designed low-slope roofs handle such weather efficiently, reducing water damage risks and resulting repairs.

Low-Slope Roof Cost-Effectiveness

Low-slope roof construction/installation (TPO, EPDM, PVC, etc.) typically involves fewer materials and less labor than steep-slope roofs, leading to lower installation costs. Consider the following:

Lower Initial Installation Costs

Low-slope roofing’s simple design means less structural support is needed, which can further reduce costs. Atlanta homeowners looking to balance budget and quality will find low-slope roofing an economically viable option.

Long-Term Savings

The energy efficiency and reduced maintenance needs combination translates to significant long-term savings. Lower energy bills, fewer repairs, and the extended lifespan of durable roofing materials contribute to the cost-effectiveness of a low-slope roof.

Investing in a cool roof with high reflectivity might have a slightly higher upfront cost. However, the energy savings during Atlanta’s hot summers can quickly offset this elevated expense. Over time, reduced energy consumption and maintenance expenses make a low-slope roof an intelligent financial decision.

Low-Slope Roofing System Environmental Benefits

The roof you install on your home will influence temperatures in your home, as well as the surrounding area. However slight, it does make a difference. Consider the following ways your roof influences the environment:

Reduced Urban Heat Island Effect

In urban areas like Atlanta, building concentration and paved surfaces can create a heat island effect, where temperatures are significantly higher than in surrounding rural areas. Low-slope roofs with “cool” roofing materials can help mitigate this effect by reflecting more sunlight and reducing heat absorption.

By choosing a low-slope roof, homeowners contribute to lowering the overall temperature in their neighborhood, improving comfort for everyone, and potentially reducing the demand for air conditioning, which benefits the environment.

Potential for Green Roof Installations

Atlanta Georgia residential green low slope roofing

Low-slope roofs are also ideal for green roof installations, where vegetation is planted on the rooftop. Green roofs provide natural insulation, reduce stormwater runoff, and improve air quality. In Atlanta, incorporating a green roof can enhance your home’s energy efficiency while providing a space for urban gardening or leisure.

Watch this video to see how green roof installations benefit the environment, people, and wildlife.

Residential Low-Slope Roofing

In this article, you discovered how residential low-slope roofing systems can be significantly more beneficial than traditional sloped shingle roofs in Atlanta, Georgia.

Installing a low-slope roofing system on your home can reduce heating and cooling costs, benefit the environment, and help reduce temperatures in your neighborhood.

Ignoring the opportunity to install a low-slope roofing system can result in higher installation and long-term air conditioning expenses while negatively influencing your local environment.

Sources:
energy.gov/energysaver/cool-roofs
epa.gov/heatislands/using-green-roofs-reduce-heat-islands
psci.princeton.edu/tips/2021/3/7/cool-roofs-reversing-the-urban-heat-island-effect-without-turning-on-the-ac
sites.evergreen.edu/urbanecologyw18/green-roofs-for-sustainable-urban-development-2/

  New Image Roofing Atlanta
 

    2020 Howell Mill Rd NW Suite 232
    Atlanta, GA 30318
    (404) 680-0041
 

Looking for a durable and high-quality roofing system? Knowing about a modified bitumen roof structure and long-term reliability for residential, commercial, and industrial buildings gives you insight into the value, strength, and longevity these roofing systems offer.

Modified bitumen roofing system professional installation

New Image Roofing Atlanta gathered information defining modified bitumen roofing anatomy, its benefits, and installation details.

Modified Bitumen Roofing System Anatomy

Modified bitumen roofing systems membrane torch down

A modified bitumen roofing system includes several fundamental components that work together to provide superior waterproofing and weather resistance:

Base Sheet – The base sheet is the roofing system’s foundation, providing a stable substrate for the modified bitumen membrane. It is typically fiberglass or polyester reinforcement coated with asphalt or polymer-modified asphalt.

Modified Bitumen Membrane – The modified bitumen membrane is the roofing system’s heart, offering exceptional waterproofing and flexibility. It is an asphalt and rubber or plastic modifier blend, which enhances its elasticity, durability, and resistance to temperature fluctuations.

Surfacing – Modified bitumen membranes may be surfaced with granules, reflective coatings, or a smooth finish to enhance durability, UV resistance, and energy efficiency. Surfacing options vary depending on the roofing project’s requirements and environmental conditions.

Adhesive or Heat Welding – Modified bitumen membranes are typically installed using hot asphalt (hot tar), cold adhesive, or heat welding techniques. Heated asphalt is applied to the substrate and the membrane is rolled out and pressed into place (while heat welding involves using a torch to melt the membrane seams together for a watertight seal).

Flashing and Sealants – Flashing materials like metal, plastic, or modified bitumen strips are used to waterproof roof penetrations, edges, and transitions. Sealants are applied to seams, joints, and penetrations to enhance waterproofing and prevent water intrusion.

Modified Bitumen Roofing System Benefits

Modified bitumen roofing systems waterproofing

Modified bitumen roofing systems offer numerous advantages that make them an attractive choice for various roofing applications:

Durability – Modified bitumen membranes are highly resistant to punctures, tears, and impact damage, making them ideal for high-traffic areas and regions prone to severe weather conditions.

Flexibility – The rubber or plastic modifiers in modified bitumen membranes provide enhanced flexibility and elongation properties, allowing the roofing system to accommodate building movement and temperature fluctuations without cracking or splitting.

Waterproofing – Modified bitumen membranes offer superior waterproofing capabilities, effectively sealing out moisture and preventing water intrusion into the building envelope. This helps protect the roof’s structural integrity and interior spaces from water damage and mold growth.

Energy Efficiency – Reflective coatings and surfacing options can help reduce solar heat absorption and lower cooling costs by maintaining lower roof temperatures. This can result in increased energy efficiency and reduced environmental impact.

Easy Maintenance – Modified bitumen roofing systems are relatively low-maintenance and require minimal upkeep to maintain their performance and appearance. Regular inspections and minor repairs can help prolong the roof’s lifespan and prevent costly damage or deterioration.

Read more about roof upkeep and maintenance plans at newimageroofingatlanta.com/roofing-services/roof-maintenance

Modified Bitumen Roofing System Installation

Modified bitumen roofing systems material installation

A modified bitumen roofing system installation typically follows these general steps:

Surface/Substrate Preparation – The roof substrate is inspected for damage, cleaned of debris, and repaired as necessary to ensure a smooth and even surface for membrane installation.

Base Sheet Installation – The base sheet is mechanically fastened or adhered to the roof substrate using asphalt or cold adhesive, providing a secure foundation for the modified bitumen membrane.

Membrane Application – The modified bitumen membrane is rolled onto the roof surface and positioned carefully to ensure proper alignment and coverage. The membrane is then adhered to the base sheet using hot asphalt, cold adhesive, or heat welding techniques.

Seam Sealing/Welding – Seams and overlaps in the modified bitumen membrane are sealed using heat welding, adhesive, or liquid sealants to create a watertight barrier against moisture intrusion.

Flashing Installation – Flashing materials are installed around roof penetrations, edges, and transitions to waterproof vulnerable areas and prevent leaks. Flashing components are secured with fasteners or adhesive and sealed with compatible sealants.

Surfacing Application – Depending on the desired finish and performance requirements, the modified bitumen membrane may be surfaced with granules, reflective coatings, or a smooth finish to enhance durability, UV resistance, and energy efficiency.

Final Inspection – Once the roofing system is installed, a final inspection is conducted to ensure all components are correctly installed, seams are sealed, and flashings are secure. Any necessary touch-ups or adjustments are made to ensure the quality and integrity of the roof.

Modified bitumen roofing system post installation inspection

ModBit Roofing Systems

In this article, you discovered how a modified bitumen roofing system is built, its benefits, and how they are installed.

Understanding how a Modbit roof is layered and installed and how it benefits your building helps you make well-informed decisions when seeking a roof-over or replacement.

Unfamiliarity with a roofing system’s assembly and benefits may lead you to install an improper roof on your residential, industrial, or commercial structure.

Sources:
fema.gov/sites/default/files/documents/fema_p-2181-fact-sheet-3-3-2-roof-systems-low-slope-roofs.pdf
energy.gov/energysaver/cool-roofs

  New Image Roofing Atlanta
 

    2020 Howell Mill Rd NW Suite 232
    Atlanta, GA 30318
    (404) 680-0041