Colonial Baptist Church Roof Renovation

Posted by Doug Groves on

Recently Cole Roofing constructed a roof replacement at the Colonial Baptist Church in Randallstown, Maryland.  The Cole Production team was tasked with correcting roof issues that had caused significant interior damage to the Church.

The overall project included 8,300 sq. ft. of roof membrane material and metal custom shop-formed copings and trim.  Just the kind of nuanced and challenging jobs we like to do. Cole Roofing’s best value is in solving challenges that jobs with existing or older buildings present us.  Some other complications at the Church included:

  • The roof had a round skylight that would have caused interior damage if removed. Cole built a pressure treated wood cover and fully covered it with the 20yr Roof Membrane.
  • The solution to a brick chimney with missing/cracked mortar joints and a cracked mortar cap was to add pressure treated plywood to the chimney, fully wrapped it in the 20yr roof membrane and added a shop formed stainless steel cap with soldered joints.
  • A very unusual accommodation was keeping the project presentable for several funeral services that came up during the roof replacement. We would dismantle our staging area and move the items around the back so the funerals could take place with no knowledge of the construction of the roof replacement project. Cole worked closely with church leaders to consider their unique needs.
  • The end result and job success?  The church and its parishioners were able to fix the interior damage caused by the old roof leaks and can now enjoy their place of worship.

Cole Roofing really thrives when we work with customers who have challenging construction and usage problems. We’re delighted to have been part of the solution, completing the project on time and on budget and with an emphasis on the safety of members, employees and workers.

At Cole Roofing, we make challenging roof projects successful.  For over a century, Cole Roofing has built a reputation for quality workmanship with the delivery of client focused projects on time, safely constructed and on budget. Offering traditional roofing technologies, Cole offers options that include solar PV, metal panels, vegetated roof systems, roof-decks, water management systems, solar thermal and daylighting.

Main Causes Of Roofing Problems

Posted by Doug Groves on

Commercial Roofs can develop cracks over time due to various factors. Cracks in a roof can lead to water leaks, structural issues, and other problems if not addressed promptly. Here are some common causes of roof cracking:

  1. Aging:
    • Over time, roofing materials can deteriorate due to exposure to the elements. This aging process can lead to the development of cracks, especially in asphalt shingles, tile roofs, and other types of roofing materials.
  2. Weathering:
    • Exposure to harsh weather conditions, including sunlight, rain, snow, and temperature fluctuations, can cause roofing materials to expand and contract. This continuous cycle of weathering can contribute to the development of cracks.
  3. Poor Installation:
    • If a roof is not installed correctly, it may be more prone to developing issues such as cracks. Poor workmanship, inadequate sealing, or improper material installation can all contribute to structural problems.
  4. Movement of the Building:
    • Buildings naturally experience some degree of movement due to factors like settling, shifting, or vibrations. This movement can stress roofing materials and contribute to the development of cracks.
  5. Lack of Maintenance:
    • Neglecting regular roof maintenance, such as cleaning gutters, removing debris, and inspecting for signs of damage, can allow small issues to escalate into more significant problems, including cracking.
  6. Extreme Temperatures:
    • Fluctuations between extreme temperatures, such as freezing and thawing cycles, can put stress on roofing materials. This stress can lead to the development of cracks over time.
  7. Impact Damage:
    • Severe weather events, falling branches, or other impacts can damage roofing materials and create cracks. Hailstorms, in particular, can cause significant damage to roofs.
  8. Inadequate Ventilation:
    • Poor attic ventilation can contribute to temperature extremes in the roof structure. This can lead to the deterioration of roofing materials and the formation of cracks.

Addressing Roof Cracks:

  1. Regular Inspections:
    • Conduct regular inspections of your roof to identify and address cracks early on. Inspections can be done by a professional roofer or through a careful visual examination.
  2. Prompt Repairs:
    • Address any cracks or damage promptly to prevent further deterioration. Small cracks can often be repaired before they escalate into larger issues.
  3. Proper Installation:
    • Ensure that qualified professionals install your roof using proper techniques and high-quality materials. Proper installation can contribute to the longevity of the roofing system.
  4. Maintain Adequate Ventilation:
    • Ensure proper attic ventilation to regulate temperature extremes and reduce stress on roofing materials.
  5. Weather-Resistant Roofing Materials:
    • Consider using weather-resistant and durable roofing materials that can withstand the climate conditions in your area.

If you notice any signs of roof cracking or damage, it’s advisable to consult with a roofing professional to assess the extent of the issue and recommend appropriate repairs or replacement. Regular maintenance and timely repairs are key to ensuring the longevity and performance of a roofing system.

Harmony between nature and your commercial roof

Posted by Doug Groves on

Maintaining a harmonious relationship between trees and roof structures requires proactive efforts to
prevent potential issues. Here are some tips for maintaining trees in a way that supports roof health:

Pruning and Trimming:

Regularly prune trees to remove dead, diseased, or weak branches. This not only enhances the tree's
health but also reduces the risk of branches falling onto the roof during storms. Be sure to trim branches
away from the roof to prevent direct contact, minimizing the risk of damage and reducing the
accumulation of leaves and debris on the roof. And when you’re ready to add to your green exterior,
plant trees at a safe distance from the building, considering the mature size of the tree. This helps
prevent branches from overhanging the roof and reduces the risk of root damage.

Leaf and Debris Management:

Be sure to clean gutters regularly to remove leaves and debris that can accumulate and cause water
backup, leading to potential roof damage. And consider gutter guards that can help prevent leaves and
debris from entering the gutters, reducing the need for frequent cleaning. Our favorite tip!….Roof
Inspection — Conduct regular roof inspections, especially after storms, to identify and promptly address
any damage or issues. Remove any debris that may have accumulated.

Storm Preparedness:

Before storm seasons, consider preventive pruning to remove weak or overhanging branches that may
pose a risk to the roof during high winds and after severe weather events, inspect trees for damage, and
promptly address any issues. Fallen branches or damaged limbs should be removed carefully to prevent
further damage.

By combining regular maintenance practices, preventive measures, and professional assistance, you can
promote a healthy coexistence between trees and roofs. This approach helps minimize the risk of
damage to roofs while allowing you to enjoy the benefits of having trees on your property.