Here’s what you need to know before replacing a flat roof!
Replacing a flat roof isn’t something you have to think about too often. However, eventually the time will come where replacement is essential to maintain the structural integrity of your building.
There are important considerations you have to think about before diving right into a flat roof replacement. As a property owner, you want to make sure that every aspect of the process is well thought out and done correctly to avoid tearing off the roofing and starting over. To ensure that your new roofing system will meet all the needs and requirements of your property, you should consider these key things when replacing a flat roof!
Repair vs. replacement
The first thing you want to ask yourself when considering a flat roof replacement is whether you should even replace it at all. Ask yourself questions like: How old is my current roof? What is its projected lifespan? How severe are the damages?
Considering these things can help you determine if the cost of a brand new roof will exceed the annual expenses of repairs or if it’s worth it to wait out the replacement until your roof has reached the end of its lifespan. If you’re not confident in your answer, the expert roofers here at JW Roofing will be happy to help you make the right decision!
What to consider before replacement
Your drainage system
Before diving right into your roof replacement, you need first to consider the type of drainage system you’ll need in place. Drainage systems are critical in making sure that water doesn’t build up and cause leakage. Consider things like if your current system will hold up during the replacement process, if you’ll need to make repairs or if you need to install an entirely new system.
Your roof slope
Another essential aspect of proper drainage is your roof’s slope. We recommend that a roof slope be a minimum of ¼” per foot. If you find that your slope is less than ¼”, you have the option to increase your preferred slope height with tapered insulation.
In addition, this could also be an opportunity for you to correct your slope direction. For example, if your roof is draining on the side of the front entrance onto guests or patrons, you can shift the slope, so it falls on the back of the building to lessen the chance of individuals getting wet.
The PSF support
Finally, always consider the structural load of a new flat roof. That is, any additional weight from things like foot traffic, equipment, materials and natural elements such as rain or snow.
Professionals measure the structural load of a new roofing system in pounds per square foot (PSF), which lets contractors know how many additional pounds a square foot area of a roof can safely support. Speak with a professional to ensure that the load of a replacement will not exceed what your current structure can support.
Schedule an inspection today!
Replacing a flat roof may seem like a simple process at first, but the reality is it’s a process that involves several considerations and expert opinions. If handled incorrectly, your flat roof replacement could end up being both dangerous and costly. That is why it’s essential to always consult with experts, whether that be engineers or your roofing contractor, every step of the way.
Here at JW Roofing, we like to make the roof repair and replacement process as stress-free as possible. As a family-owned company, our team understands how stressful the roof replacement process can be. Our team of highly experienced, customer-oriented roofing specialists is here to walk you through each step in order to relieve that stress. Contact us today to talk about your flat roof replacement needs!
