The average roof lasts for about 30 years before it is due for replacement. Other reasons you might need to replace your roof include water leaks, inadequate ventilation, and extensive roof damage. It is crucial to choose a reputable roofing contractor when installing a new roof. Here are some common commercial roof replacement mistakes.
Old Flashings
Flashings are metal strips that prevent water from penetrating your roof. They are usually fixed at the roof's most vulnerable parts. Since flashing protects your roof from water damage, it wears out quickly and needs to be replaced.
Sometimes old flashing looks salvageable. Repurposing it and using it on your new roof is a big mistake. Old flashing is already worn out and will not protect your roof from water damage. It will end up costing you more than installing new flashing if it fails unexpectedly.
Ignoring Starter Strips
Installing shingles directly to the roof frame leaves your roof vulnerable to wind and other elements. It also reduces the lifespan of your new roof.
Starter shingles are the first products installed on the roof before the first course of shingles. Commercial roofing services use them to waterproof the rake and eave edges of your commercial premises. They also prevent the shingles from blowing off due to harsh winds.
Mixed Ventilation
Another commercial roof replacement mistake is mixing ventilation types. Each type of vent works and handles airflow in a specific manner. Mixing vent types lowers the efficiency of your ventilation and increases your energy bills.
Some of the standard vents include whirlybirds and static vents. For example, the whirlybirds rely on wind to draw air from your attic. On the other hand, the static vents rely on cool air to force air out of the exhaust vent. When you combine the two ventilation types, you may end up with unwanted moisture or even snow in your attic.
Failing To Install Ice and Water Shields
The ice and water shield is a rubberized asphalt membrane that defends your roof against cold and extreme weather conditions. Exposure to harsh elements like strong winds, storms, and heavy rains usually results in roofing leaks. This shield provides an extra barrier to your roof that prevents water from penetrating your commercial premises.
The ice and water shield should be installed at the vulnerable areas of your roof. These include the roofing vents, eaves and valleys around the chimney, and skylights. Damage in these areas arises because of backed-up gutters, wind-driven rains, and ice damming.
