Blistering and alligatoring are two of the most common problems that plague Vancouver roofs (of any kind), but most people aren’t sure what they look like – or what the difference is.
How to Safely Inspect A Flat Roof: 6 Steps for Commercial Property Managers
If you’re a commercial property manager, you likely are already aware of the importance of regular roof inspections and maintenance. Though many people tend not to think about their roofs at all after installation, no roof is guaranteed for life.
That being said, if you want to inspect your roof yourself, you may not be totally sure what to look for – or how to inspect your roof safely.
How (and Why) to Remove Moss from Your Roof Shingles
“Why should I remove the moss from my shingles? It looks nice, and it suits the Pacific Northwest so well!”
While moss on your roof can add a quaint, cottage-esque sort of charm to your Vancouver home, it can actually be detrimental to the overall health of your roof.
Can A New Roof Increase Resale Value in Apartment Buildings?
It’s a tricker question than you might expect. It seems obvious that any significant improvements or renovations made to your home would improve the value, but what if you live in an apartment building or townhome?
4 Things for Property Managers to Consider When Choosing a Roofing Company
Are you a property or building manager in need of roofing services, but you’re daunted the thought of choosing a company? Before you go choosing blindly, let’s gather some insight on what you should be seeking by examining some things about the roofing industry in Vancouver.
Commercial Roof Maintenance: Knowing when to Repair your Roof – and when to Replace It
If you’re a property owner or business owner – or even a car owner – you’ve probably agonized over whether or not you should invest the time and energy into repairing something, or take the easier (but costlier) route of replacing the entire thing.
When it comes to commercial roofs, the issue gets a little complicated.
Knowing Your Roof System
Knowing when to repair or replace your roof is a skill that few have. The reason? You really have to know how your roof works. In a residential setting that might seem easy enough – damage to shingles or clogged gutters is generally quite obvious – but there are often smaller and less obvious signs that could indicate that something is very wrong.
A commercial building often presents further challenges. Commercial buildings usually use flat roofing, which is unlikely to use shingles in favour of built-up roofing or modified bitumen roofing, which are generally covered in a layer of asphalt.. Some commercial or industrial buildings may even have a combination of flat roofing, metal, sloped metal, and/or shingled roofing, in which case you’ll have a lot of different things to watch out for.
Safely Inspecting Your Roof
This may go without saying, but please remember to be cautious when inspecting your roof! Even walking across a simple flat roof can be extremely hazardous. Visually inspect as much as you can from the ground before you climb onto the roof. If your roof is too dangerous, consider hiring a professional for an inspection.
Repairing vs Replacing your Roof:
Here are a few common roofing problems you may encounter during an inspection of a damaged roof. Use the guide below to determine whether the best course of action is to replace or repair.
Minor Damage (Repair It) | Major Damage (Replace It) |
Minor Leaks: If you notice small water stains on your ceiling or in your attic after rain or snow, it’s a sign of a leak. Small leaks can often be repaired without the need for a full roof replacement
| Large, Persistent, and/or Widespread Leaks: Multiple leaks or a history of recurring leaks in different areas of the roof suggest systemic failure. Ongoing water intrusion can cause structural damage, rot, or mold.
|
Missing or Damaged Shingles: High winds, heavy rain, and other weather conditions can cause shingles to crack, curl, or go missing. Replacing these shingles can often remedy the issue if the damage is not widespread. It’s also a good idea to keep an eye out for loose asphalt granules, which can indicate wear and tear.
| Widespread Shingle Damage: While individual shingles can be replaced, extensive damage such as large areas of missing shingles, curling, cracking, or shingles that have lost their granules indicates that the roof is failing. Check for large quantities or loose asphalt granules, which can indicate significant wear and tear.
|
Minor Flashing Damage: Metal flashing around vents, chimneys, and roof intersections is crucial for preventing water from entering through cracks.. If the flashing is cracked, bent, or loose, it can often be repaired or replaced to restore the roof’s integrity.
| Significant Storm Damage: After a severe storm, roofs can suffer extensive damage that is beyond repair, including holes, split seams, irreversibly damaged flashing, or missing sections, necessitating a full replacement.
|
Clogged or damaged gutters, downspouts, or drains: Gutters and drains direct water off your roof and away from your property. If they’re clogged, leaking, or detached, repairing them promptly can prevent further damage.
| Puddles on a flat roof If you have a flat roof, puddles are always a bad sign. Water on a roof should always be directed toward a gutter or drain; if water is sitting, it could be a sign of structural damage.
|
Sagging Gutters or Downspouts: Sagging or damaged gutters can lead to water damage on your roof and siding. Repairs or replacements are relatively easy, and can prevent potential roofing problems.
| Sagging Roof: A sagging roof is a sign of structural issues, such as weakened support, rot, or even foundational issues. This can be a serious safety hazard and often necessitates a complete roof replacement.
|
Small Moss and Algae Growths on the Roof: When checking the surface of your roof – or the attic below – look for clusters of moss or algae. Their presence indicates moisture retention, which should be addressed to prevent damage.
| Mold or Rot Beneath the Roof Mold is a big problem that not only affects the overall health of a building – it can affect its inhabitants, too. If you see rot due to water ingress, your roof likely needs to be replaced – and further work needs to be done to reverse the damage inside.
|
Bonus note for commercial property owners: depending on the wording of your lease, repairs and maintenance may be the tenant responsibility. By conducting a series of repairs over years, instead of a complete roof replacement, much of the cost would be passed to your commercial tenant.
How Can We Help?
If you still aren’t sure what course of action is best, feel free to give us a call! Whether your roof is metal, shingled, flat, or otherwise, we’re very capable of guiding your decision making regarding what will be best for your property – and your wallet.
Get in touch today – we’d love to hear from you!
BONUS POINT FOR BUILDING OWNERS: Depending on the wording of your lease, repairs and maintenance may be the tenant responsibility. By conducting a series of repairs over years, instead of a complete roof replacement, much of the cost would be passed to your commercial tenant.
The Importance of Roof Maintenance
Here’s How Doing Regular Roof Maintenance Can Help You Save Money
Most people don’t think about roof maintenance. Whether in a residential or commercial setting, a roof is just another part of the building that simply exists without them even needing to think about it. It’s above them, silently doing its job; out of sight, out of mind.
What they don’t realize is that even the most perfectly installed roof isn’t guaranteed for life – especially in rainy cities like Vancouver.
Maintaining the World Around Us
There’s almost nothing in the world that doesn’t require some degree of maintenance. Cars need oil changes and tune-ups. Bikes need chain oil and brake checks. Plants, gardens, and lawns need water, pruning, and weeding. If you think about it, even people need maintenance; doctor’s visits, optometry, and dental cleanings are all crucial elements of personal upkeep.
Roads need maintenance. Buildings need maintenance. Plumbing, sewer systems, computers, windows, trees, electronics, furniture – the list is neverending.
In other words: we’re surrounded by objects, possessions, and infrastructure – things that support our everyday lifestyle – that need a little upkeep. If it exists in a physical form, it likely requires some kind of periodic maintenance.
Your roof is no different.
Roof Maintenance in Vancouver
As a general rule of thumb, anything exposed to bad weather is likely to wear out pretty quickly. Here in Vancouver, we’re blessed with a relatively mild climate; however, the rain, wind, and snow that we face throughout the year make roofs very susceptible to wear and tear.
Moreover, Vancouver is a very green city; most of our streets are lined with tall, healthy deciduous trees that, while lovely to look at, drop thousands of leaves during the fall – many of which end up on our roofs, clogging gutters and drains and decaying into murky sludge – especially on flat roofs.
Consequently, roofs around here – on any type of building – often require a little more maintenance and cleanup than you might expect.
Why Roof Maintenance is Important
There are many, many reasons why roof maintenance is important, but the most compelling, convincing reason is very simple:
Roof maintenance saves you money in the long run.
To explain it simply: in terms of both time and money, the cost of fixing your home after your roof fails is astronomical compared to the cost of hiring someone to perform preventative maintenance.
Think of your roof like a suit of armour: even the most miniscule fault leaves you mortally vulnerable. If even a small amount of water gets into your home, it can ruin walls, floors, electronics, furniture, and more – and saddle you with massive repair bills. If you’re in a commercial setting and your roof fails, your entire business could potentially be ruined by the ensuing damage.
Here are a few other ways that roof maintenance can save you money:
Roof maintenance extends the life of your roof, meaning you’re less likely to need to replace the entire thing down the road, which is extremely costly.
A well-kept, insulated roof improves energy efficiency, keeping your heating bills lower.
A well-maintained roof helps maintain property value. It immediately suggests to potential buyers and realtors that the entire home has likely been well-cared for.
A well-maintained roof prevents pest infestations by sealing off entry points for birds, rodents, and insects.
What Can You Do?
Remember, your roof is an asset; maintenance keeps it from becoming a liability. The best thing you can do as a commercial business owner or property owner is to perform regular roof inspections and cleanups, which should entail:
cleaning your gutters and downspouts
clearing debris and leaves
checking your attic for moisture, rot, or mold
If you own a commercial property, check out our post about protecting your commercial roof.
Inspecting your Roof: How to Spot Signs of Wear or Damage
You should inspect your roof every six months (minimum). Here are a few things to look out for:
Missing, cracked, curled, or damaged shingles
Shingles protect the wooden components of your roof from water damage. If the shingles are breaking, then it’s extremely likely that water is getting through.
Moss, algae, or fungus growth
Moss, algae, and fungus only propagate in damp/moist environments. If you’re seeing signs of any of them, it’s likely that your roof is holding on to more moisture than it should be.
Sagging or puddles in flat roofs
Whether your roof is flat or sloped, any sagging is very likely a sign that water is getting through – and has already done some damage. A well-installed roof should never have any sagging or puddles.
Leaking or water stains
Leaks are an obvious sign that something is very wrong. Get any leaks fixed ASAP.
Slow-draining drains
Are you in a commercial building or strata with a flat roof? It likely has built-in drains, and if those drains are clogged – by leaves, dirt, or debris – then the water on your roof will have nowhere to go. A big puddle of water on your roof isn’t only a leaking hazard – it’s a structural hazard.
Clogged gutters and damaged downspouts
A clogged gutter can cause water to back up and sit where it shouldn’t.
A sudden increase in heating and energy bills
An unexpected increase in heating or cooling bills could be due to air escaping through your roof. Adequate insulation and a properly sealed roof help maintain your home’s energy efficiency.
It’s also extremely important to be aware of the age of your roof. If your roof is more than 5 years old and hasn’t been inspected or repaired recently, consider getting an inspection asap.
How Can We Help?
Your roof is the barrier between you and nature’s harshest elements.
If you’re a homeowner, property owner, property manager, or business owner, you likely already know how much work it is to keep everything pristine, so something like your roof – which may look fine, at a glance – might end up on the back burner.
But even if it seems like your roof is probably in good shape, it’s important to remember that the smallest damage to your roof – whether your roof is flat, sloped, shingled, torch-on, or otherwise – can cause massive, expensive problems down below. The cost of maintenance simply doesn’t compare.
If you’re interested in getting repairs done – or if you’d like an inspection for peace of mind – consider getting in touch. With over 75 years in business, we’d like to think we know a thing or two about protecting, repairing, and maintaining roofs. We’d love to hear from you!
The Pros and Cons of Metal Roofs
When most people think about metal roofs, they think only of places that get lots of snow. Sloped metal roofs, especially, are best known as workhorses against nature’s harshest (and heaviest) elements, and are common in northern or central Canadian towns and cities that receive heavy annual snowfall.
That said, there’s a pretty compelling case to be made for metal roofs – even in mild Vancouver.
The Case for Metal
If you’re walking or driving around the Lower Mainland, it’s unlikely you’ll spot many metal roofs. They’re very uncommon on residential homes, especially around here; you’re much more likely to find them on commercial buildings (or ski lodges), but even so, other types of roofing are a lot more common.
Why? There’s probably lots of reasons – shingled or asphalt roofs are cheaper up front, for example, and metal roofs might seem unnecessary due to our snowfall levels in Vancouver being significantly lower than the national average – but the main reason is likely much simpler: metal roofs just aren’t that trendy around here.
So, if everyone around you probably has some variation of a shingled and/or asphalt roof, why might you want to consider a metal roof instead?
Types of Metal Roofing
First, let’s look at types of metal used in roofing. Metal roofs are most commonly aluminum, steel, copper, or zinc alloy. Aluminum and steel are by far the most common, and both have their advantages and disadvantages: steel is costly and heavy, but durable, whereas aluminum is lightweight and rustproof, but more prone to denting.
There are many different ways for metal roofs to be installed, each of which also offer distinct advantages as far as cost-effectiveness and overall aesthetic; for now, however, let’s just look at the overall pros and cons of metal roofing.
The Pros and Cons of Metal Roofing
Pro: Durable and Long-Lasting
Metal roofs have a long lifespan and are more resistant to the elements than asphalt shingles. Depending on the type of metal you use, they’re virtually impervious to weather damage, wind damage, damage from animals, and leaks. Moreover, most metal roofs are likely to last 50+ years; shingled roofs generally only last for ~20.
Con: Can Be Noisy
In times of heavy rainfall, many people might find the sound of precipitation gently (but persistently) tapping on your rooftop a little irritating after a while. Depends on your preferences.
Pro: Low Maintenance
Because metal roofs are so durable and so resistant to water ingress, they require very little regular maintenance. While a typical shingled roof might need costly repairs due to weather damage, a steel or aluminum roof will generally take care of itself – but remember to clear your gutters and downspouts either way!
Con: Difficult to Install
Many roofing companies – especially companies that operate in a city where shingled roofs are most common – don’t have the knowledge, skill, licensing, or accreditation to install a metal roof.
Pro: Weather-Resistant
Metal roofs are so popular in snowy areas not only because they can handle the extreme weight load of snow, but also because snow tends to slide right off.
Con: Slippery
If you need to get on your sloped metal roof to clean the gutters or take down your Christmas lights, be warned that the smooth surface can make things extremely slippery – and extremely dangerous.
Pros: Energy-Efficient and Sustainable
Because metal roofs reflect sunlight away from your home or business – instead of absorbing it – it can help keep your home cooler in the summer, thereby lowering your heating bills. Moreover, if you need to replace a metal roof, it’s 100% recyclable, whereas shingle roofs – which need to be fixed and replaced more often – just end up in a landfill.
Con: Potential for denting
Some metal materials – especially aluminum and copper – can be prone to denting if hit by fallen tree branches or large hailstones.
Pro: Fire-resistant
Because metal isn’t flammable like wood or asphalt, it’s much less likely to catch or spread fire.
Con: More expensive up front
Depending on your house size and type of metal, a metal roof is likely to cost quite a bit more per square foot to install than a shingled roof, meaning your overall up-front cost might be quite inflated.
Pro: More cost-effective in the long run
However, despite being more pricey up front, metal roofs can save you money in the long run. Due to their decreased maintenance costs, increased durability and lifespan, and improved energy efficiency, they’re more likely overall to put cash back in your pocket.
How Can We Help?
Thinking of putting a metal roof on your home or business? We’d love to hear from you. We have an in-house metal shop that allows us to fabricate the parts we need, and we’re fully accredited and licensed installers.
For all your metal roofing needs in the Lower Mainland, get in touch with Cambie Contracting for a quote.
Types of Commerical and Industrial Flat Roofs
When you think about a roof, two words probably pop immediately to mind: slopes and shingles.
Indeed, the majority of residential homes probably have what you might call a “classic” roof system – typical asphalt shingles sat atop a network of sloping triangles, with gutters, downspouts, and eaves taking rainwater elsewhere.
Now, picture in your mind a typical commercial or industrial building or establishment. Does it have a flat roof or a sloped roof? Probably flat, right?
Let’s take a look at why.
Commercial Roofs Vs. Residential Roofs
Around 75% of all homes in North America have shingled roofs. They’re relatively cost-effective to install, they’re functional, and the general consensus is that they look really good.
That being said, the majority of commercial and industrial buildings have flat roofs. The roofs of larger buildings and complexes face different challenges than small residential roofs, and often need to be built differently.
For example: with little to no slope, water and drainage present a big issue. Any water, debris, or material left on a flat roof can lead to severe damage due to sinking or plugged drains, which is a key reason why regular maintenance is so important. It’s even more important, though, that a commercial roof is built and installed properly by knowledgeable, licensed professionals.
With that in mind, let’s take a look at different types of commercial and industrial flat roofing.
Different Types of Commercial and Industrial Flat Roofing
Built-Up Roofing
Built-up roofing (BUR) is a type of roofing system commonly used on low-slope or flat roofs. It’s been in use for over a century, which should tell you all you need to know about its reliability and longevity. It consists of multiple layers of materials that create a durable and waterproof barrier:
- Base sheets, which are fastened directly to the roof deck and offer a foundation for the subsequent layers
- Felts/fabrics – usually made of fiberglass – which are laid atop the base sheet
- Bitumen (asphalt or coal tar), which is applied between the layers of felt and acts as as an adhesive and waterproofing agent
- Surfacing, which varies depending on the project, can be gravel, mineral granules, or a smooth coating
Modified Bitumen Roofing
Modified bitumen roofing is a type of roofing material that is well-suited for flat or low-slope roofs. It’s an evolution of the traditional built-up roofing system, but with improved flexibility and resistance to environmental factors like temperature changes and sunlight
Modified bitumen roofing sheets are composed of asphalt that has been modified with polymers or rubber to improve its elasticity and durability. The sheets are versatile, and can be installed via torch application, self-adhering, or cold-applied, and often have a plasticky or rubbery quality
Valued for its reliability, durability, and ease of maintenance, modified bitumen roofing, when properly installed, is resistant to tears, punctures, and weathering, making it a suitable choice for harsher climates. It also provides better insulation than most traditional BUR systems.
Ethylene Propylene Diene Monomer (EPDM) Roofing
EPDM is a type of lightweight synthetic rubber roofing membrane widely used on low-slope buildings. EPDM is popular due to its durability, versatility, and ease of installation. It’s resistant to heat and weathering and is available in white or black, depending on sunlight and insulation needs.
There are several more benefits to EPDM roofing, especially in commercial or industrial flat roofing systems, including its cost-effectiveness, ease of installation, relatively low maintenance, and waterproofing qualities
Thermoplastic Polyolefin (TPO) Roofing
TPO is a type of single-ply roofing membrane that is one of the fastest-growing choices for commercial and industrial flat roofs. It’s known for its heat-reflective properties and energy efficiency. Consisting of rubber and polypropylene that are polymerized together, it can be fastened to your roof deck mechanically, adhered, or heat-welded into place.
TPO is designed to be flexible, which helps it accommodate the building’s movement and settling. Resistant to mold growth, dirt accumulation, and punctures, TPO roofs are noted for their ability to withstand chemical exposure, ultraviolet light, and ozone. They’re also energy efficient, modern, and cost-effective.
Polyvinyl Chloride (PVC) Roofing
PVC is a type of single-ply thermoplastic membrane widely used on commercial and industrial flat or low-slope roofs. PVC has been a popular choice in the roofing industry due to its durability, chemical resistance, and fire resistance properties.
A PVC roofing membrane typically consists of two layers of PVC with a polyester reinforcement scrim sandwiched between them. This construction enhances the membrane’s strength and durability. Like TPO, PVC roofing is highly reflective and energy efficient, particularly when finished in light colours. This reflectivity helps in reducing the building’s cooling demands, thereby lowering energy costs.
Overall, PVC roofing provides a robust, long-lasting solution for protecting a variety of buildings with low-slope or flat roofs, combining high performance with low maintenance needs.
See Related: Commercial Roof Maintenance: Knowing when to Repair your Roof – and when to Replace It
Spray Polyurethane Foam (SPF) Roofing
SPF is a type of roofing system that is applied as a liquid spray which expands into a foam, creating a solid layer across an existing roof. Since the foam is sprayed on as a liquid, it’s well-suited for unusually-shaped roofs because it forms a single, continuous membrane that covers the entire roof, without seams or joints. This virtually eliminates any waterproofing problems associated with seam failures in other roofing systems.
On top of that, SPF is an excellent insulator, a durable, damage-resistant surface, and is considered relatively eco-friendly; however, it requires maintenance and inspections, and it takes specific weather conditions (and a lot of skill) to install.
How Can We Help?
It’s a lot of info to unpack. If you’re not sure what type of roof you might need – or what type of flat roof you already have – please feel free to get in touch! Our expert roofers would be happy to take a look and give you the advice you need to get started. We’d love to hear from you.
Winter Challenges and Roof Maintenance
Winter Challenges and Roof Maintenance
Introduction:
As winter’s icy grip takes hold, your roof becomes the frontline defender against a barrage of challenges. From heavy snow loads to ice dams and freezing temperatures, the winter season poses unique threats to the integrity of your roof. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll explore the specific challenges winter brings and outline proactive roof maintenance solutions to ensure your home or business remains protected during the colder months.
Understanding Winter Challenges:
Winter brings a host of challenges that can compromise the health of your roof. Being aware of these issues is the first step in implementing effective preventative measures. Let’s delve into the most common winter challenges:
Heavy Snow Loads:
Accumulating snow can exert tremendous weight on your roof, leading to structural strain and potential damage. In regions with heavy snowfall, this becomes a significant concern, particularly for older or compromised structures.
Proactive Solution: Regularly monitor snow accumulation and consider snow removal services to alleviate excess weight, preventing structural damage and ensuring the continued integrity of your roof.
Ice Dams:
Ice dams form when melting snow refreezes at the roof’s edge, creating a barrier that prevents proper drainage. This can lead to water backing up under the roof covering, causing leaks and potential water damage.
Proactive Solution: Install heat cables along the roof’s edge to facilitate melting and discourage ice dam formation. Additionally, ensure proper attic insulation and ventilation to minimize temperature variations that contribute to ice damming.
Freezing and Thawing Cycles:
Fluctuating temperatures create a cycle of freezing and thawing, which can contribute to the deterioration of roofing materials. This continuous expansion and contraction can weaken the roof’s structure over time.
Proactive Solution: Conduct a pre-winter roof inspection to identify and address any existing damage. Ensure that your roofing materials are in good condition to withstand the rigors of freezing and thawing cycles throughout the winter.
Condensation:
Cold temperatures outside and warm air inside can lead to condensation within the attic space. Excessive condensation can result in mold growth, wood rot, and insulation damage.
Proactive Solution: Improve attic ventilation to maintain consistent temperatures and reduce the potential for condensation. Adequate ventilation helps regulate humidity levels within the attic, preventing moisture-related issues.
Proactive Roof Maintenance Solutions for Winter:
Snow Removal:
Regularly removing accumulated snow from your roof is crucial, especially after heavy snowfall. Use a snow rake or hire professionals to safely clear excess snow, preventing the risk of structural strain.
Ice Dam Prevention:
Install ice and water shield membranes along the roof’s edge to prevent water infiltration. Adequate attic insulation and ventilation are also key in maintaining uniform temperatures to discourage ice dam formation.
Roof Inspections:
Schedule a professional roof inspection before winter sets in. Experts can identify weak points, potential leaks, and areas susceptible to ice dams, allowing for timely repairs and reinforcement.
Gutter Maintenance:
Ensure gutters and downspouts are clear of debris to facilitate proper water drainage. Clogged gutters can contribute to ice dam formation and compromise the effectiveness of the entire drainage system.
Attic Ventilation:
Proper attic ventilation is crucial in minimizing condensation. Ensure that vents are unobstructed, allowing for the free flow of air to regulate temperatures and prevent moisture buildup.
Roof Material Inspection:
Examine your roofing materials for signs of wear, damage, or missing components. Replace any damaged shingles, flashing, or seals to maintain the roof’s integrity and prevent leaks.
Sealant Application:
Apply roof sealants around penetrations, such as vents and chimneys, to prevent water infiltration. Check existing seals for signs of wear and reapply as needed.
Insulation Upgrades:
Enhance attic insulation to maintain consistent temperatures and reduce the risk of ice dam formation. Proper insulation not only conserves energy but also protects the structural components of your roof.
Conclusion:
As winter descends, proactive roof maintenance becomes a shield against the seasonal challenges that can compromise your home or business. By understanding the specific threats posed by heavy snow loads, ice dams, freezing and thawing cycles, and condensation, you can implement targeted solutions to fortify your roof.
From regular snow removal and gutter maintenance to professional inspections and attic ventilation improvements, a comprehensive approach to winter roof care ensures your structure remains resilient in the face of winter’s harsh conditions. Embrace these proactive measures, and let your roof stand strong, weathering the chill with confidence and durability. Questions? Call the experts at Cambie Roofing today.