Roofing systems can be complicated. The single-ply roof itself isn’t a complicated concept since it’s one ply of roofing membrane typically over insulation and the roof deck. So, why can it be complicated? The attachment method for the membrane can get a bit confusing, especially when adding wind uplift pressures, but there are three popular attachment methods. Adhering the membrane with bonding adhesive, mechanically fastening the membrane with screws, and ballasting the membrane with stone are commonplace in the industry. But which method to use? All methods have pros and cons and are suitable with the appropriate design. This topic can be multiple pages long, but simply put, consider the following:

Adhered membranes are the easiest to maintain, allow for easy leak identification, and spread building pressures throughout the entire roof, but they are the most expensive of the three methods. Mechanically fastened membranes are easy to maintain, and more cost-efficient than adhered, but leak identification can be difficult, and building pressures are isolated to the mechanically fastened field seams. Ballasted membranes are typically the most cost-efficient and fastest to install since all insulations and membranes are loose-laid, but maintenance and leak identification are difficult since everything is covered in stone, there are building height limitations, and ballast weight may be a concern.

Call Cole Roofing today to discuss the appropriate method for your new single-ply roofing system!

Commercial metal roofs are becoming increasingly popular due to their energy efficiency and durability. Metal roofs are highly reflective, meaning they reflect sunlight and heat away from the building, reducing the energy needed to cool the interior. Additionally, metal roofs are made of recyclable materials and have a lifespan of up to 50 years, making them a sustainable and cost-effective option for commercial building owners.  Metal roofing is also ideal for matching with a solar array and ideal pairing!

Metal roofs come in various styles, colors, and finishes, allowing building owners to customize their roofs to fit their aesthetic preferences. Metal roofs can also be installed over existing roofs, reducing the need for costly and time-consuming tear-offs.

In addition to their energy efficiency and durability, commercial metal roofs are low-maintenance. They do not require frequent repairs or replacements like some traditional roofing materials.

Overall, commercial metal roofs are leading the way toward energy efficiency in the construction industry. They offer a sustainable, customizable, and low-maintenance option for building owners looking to reduce their energy costs and carbon footprint.

Within the past few weeks, we have seen temperatures dip to the 30s. On one of those cold mornings, I went through my usual routine of making coffee and letting the dog outside. Grabbed a cup of brewed bean water, went to check on the dog from the back patio, took a sip, and proceeded to spray coffee all over the patio door. Ever seen a St. Bernard willingly slide down a hill covered in frost? It’s hilarious, and unfortunately, I had a mouthful of coffee at the time. That situation reminded me that frost or recent rain could create a comical scenario at ground level but make a very hazardous environment when on a roof and gravity is against you.

Single-ply roofing membranes are slippery when wet and even worse when frost and ice are present. Textured walkways, consisting of walkway pads made from the membrane material, liquid membranes with embedded granules, or simple concrete pavers, can assist roof traffic with getting a grip. As an added bonus, the walkways offer an additional layer of protection to your roof! Cole Roofing can assist you with designing and installing a walkway layout to suit your needs!

It’s still winter, and some foul weather is surely ahead of u. Please be careful on those roofs, and if going on a roof is absolutely necessary, the best safety practices are limiting roof traffic, OSHA-compliant fall protection, being aware of perimeters and hazards, and walking slowly and diligently.

P.S. No St. Bernards were injured in the making of this post 🙂

Indoor waterfalls and water features in your building can be relaxing. Maybe those places are your go-to area to decompress after a stressful day. But one thing is for sure. If the waterfall is unintended and coming from the skylights, it’s probably time to replace them!

If your skylights and daylighting devices let in more than just light, it’s time to determine the cause. Many popular plastic and acrylic skylights have useful service lives of 20 years. That is due to plasticizers and polymers leaching out of the “dome” or, simply put, the part that lets the light in. The leaching makes the dome brittle which eventually causes cracking and crazing. Many times, that cracking and crazing is so fine that it is unnoticeable without a thorough inspection. A quick fix is a glob of caulk at a major crack and around the frame (which is rarely the cause), but that will only last so long. Unless the intention is to create a waterfall inside of the building, the better and longer-lasting alternative is the replacement of the dome itself!

Call Cole Roofing today to assist you with options for the inspection, repair, or replacement of those skylights!