Signs that your Commercial Roof is in Need of Masonry Repairs

Your commercial roofing is the most important barrier that your building has against outdoor element. From rain, to wind, to snow, and everything in between, your commercial roofing is both your first and last line of defense. Unfortunately, cracks can form and begin to expose its vulnerability. When these defects happen, it may mean that your roof is in need of masonry repairs; and it can be a sign to get your commercial roof checked, fixed, or replaced.

Matrix Roofing has the expertise you need to understand your roof to identify certain concerns that need to be addressed before they become more serious and costly. Here are some signs to look out for: 

• Roof Sagging: A sagging roof indicates that there is structural damage to your building, and needs to be replaced as soon as possible in order to prevent injuries. Sagging affects the entire roof and it is possible that the roof could collapse! Please don’t hesitate to contact our team as your safety is very important us.
• Gaps in Flashing: Flashing is the strips of material (typically metal) around the perimeter of the roof’s edge where it meets the wall. Issues can occur when there are gaps present between the flashing and the roof’s edge, which can result in failure during high winds and rain.
• Prolonged Standing Water: If you start to see bubbles appearing on your commercial roof, this may indicate that there’s trapped moisture within the roof cover, which can lead to leaks, reduce the lifespan of the cover, and reduce the roof cover’s effectiveness against extreme weather conditions.

A properly maintained roof is necessary for the safety of everyone in your building. We encourage you to give us a call here at Matrix Roofing to schedule a roofing inspection in order to determine the best course of action for your roof. We are here to help, and happy to be at your service!

Identification of Commercial Roofing Stains

Commercial roofing stains can happen for a variety of reasons, and here we will explain those reasons with some detail that will help you to gain a better understanding. For instance, noticing the stain color, its location, and the stain in relation to your roof’s conditions (shading, nearby trees, debris, roofing materials) will usually lead to a quick diagnosis of the cause for the stain. 

Flat roofs have the tendency to collect water from rain, which can lead to potential issues, such as the buildup of unattractive algae and stains. To avoid these types of stains, it’s important to remove any standing water from the top of your building’s roof. Additionally, if you notice red or brown stains on your metal roof surfaces, it is most likely rust staining. Expect to see rust stains only around and below rusting metal components on a roof.

It’s important to ensure that the trees around your building are properly trimmed to safeguard your roof from fallen branches, leaves, and debris. Trust us when we say that you don’t want leaves and debris accumulating on your roof, because it can cause cosmetic staining, long term wear, and leaks below the debris. Having that said, it is important that you protect your gutters by trimming back branches that have pine needles or leaves.

A simple roof cleaning (once a year!) will help to keep the dirt and other visible elements from making your roof look dirty, moldy, or discolored to the naked eye. Contact Matrix Roofing today! From there, we can help to identify and resolve your commercial roofing stains. 

The Importance of Commercial Roofing Insulation

For improved energy efficiency and temperature control in your building, commercial roofing insulation is necessary. Roofing insulation is a critical piece of every roofing system and is installed between the structural roof deck and roof membrane. The bigger a building is, the more it is impacted by insulation, making proper insulation extremely important for commercial and industrial buildings. A poorly insulated roof causes higher energy bills because your HVAC system needs to be constantly running to maintain your indoor comfort.

Here are some reasons why roofing insulation is important:

• Energy & Cost Efficiency: A properly insulated roof can regulate heating and cooling costs, helping business owners save on energy costs. Like the insulation in your walls, your roof’s insulation works to keep the heating and cooling you pay for inside. The better your roof’s insulation, the more energy efficient your building will be.
• Extra Layer of Protection: If a roof is not insulated properly condensation can form under the roof membrane and can cause a whole slew of moisture problems, such as mold and a rotted out roof deck. Roofing insulation acts as an extra barrier to protect your roof from condensation by regulating the temperature internally.
• Reduce Carbon Footprint: Insulation is an essential factor in minimizing your property’s carbon footprint because it saves energy. By insulating your roof, your building is naturally regulating its temperature, rather than having to resort to unnecessary artificial heating and cooling.

Matrix Roofing, among the most trusted commercial roofing contractors in the Mid-Atlantic region, will work with you to determine the roofing needs that are right for your building and your budget. If you’re interested in learning more about commercial roofing insulation, please give us a call today!

What is the Typical Life Expectancy for Commercial Roofing?

The lifespan of a commercial roof can differ based on different styles and materials, so knowing the life expectancy of the different commercial roofing materials can help you make the right financial decision when replacing your roof.  As a business owner, you want to know what kind of roofing materials are going to be the most energy efficient, cost efficient and durable.

In today’s market, commercial roofs can last anywhere from 10 to 30 years – or even more! Below is a breakdown of the life expectancy for some of the most common types of commercial roofs:

• EPDM rubber roof life expectancy: EDPM rubber is one of the most common commercial roofing materials and is put together using rolls of a highly durable rubber. This type of rubber gives your roof a life expectancy of anywhere from 20 to 30 years. An EPDM roof is usually installed on a large building with a flat roof.
• TPO single ply roof life expectancy: These types of roofs tend to last at least 10 to 20 years, although they can sustain themselves anywhere between 20 and 30 years.  TPO is similar to EPDM in that it is usually installed on a building with a flat roof.
• Metal roof system life expectancy: Metal roofs are one of the most long lasting roofs you can install, and will last anywhere from 30 to 45 years. They are very adaptable to roofs with steep-slopes.
• Asphalt roof system life expectancy: These types of roofs can last up to 30 years depending on the slope of the roof and whether or not there is a consistent maintenance schedule. 

By scheduling regular maintenance, you can maximize the lifespan of your roofing system, as well as reduce overall costs! Give us a call today to schedule a maintenance check or click here to visit our Website.

Don't Forget about your Commercial Roof's Gutters!

Maintaining your commercial roof and gutter systems is important for guaranteeing their longevity and avoiding accidents. Areas of your building with immediate needs tend to break down or stop working, which will become noticeable very quickly. However, necessary roof repair often sneaks by unnoticed, because the roof of your building is difficult to spot—making it easy to overlook. Unfortunately, ignoring your roof can have a devastating effect on your building and your business. While proper maintenance can be easy, emergency roof repair can get expensive and time-consuming quite fast. With that being said, don’t forget about your roofs gutters!

Gutters clog when loose debris build up and get intertwined to the gutter’s interior. If the debris becomes compact enough, it can prevent water from flowing toward the downspout, and then even your downspout can clog. Gutter cleaning should be a very routine service and is an essential part of your buildings maintenance. Gutter cleaning can prevent multiple issues such as roof hazards, exterior home damage, as well as basement and foundation issues. Proper maintenance will also save you money in the long run!

Here are some tips to ensure that your gutter is properly maintained:

• Check to make sure that your gutter system is cleaned out, as clear gutters will tell you that they are draining correctly and aren’t holding debris. To ensure your gutters stay clean all year-round, you should clean them at least twice a year in the fall and spring, or more if needed.
• Check for pooling water or improper drainage.
• Check for gutters or downspouts that are sagging or pulling away from your building.
• Check for holes and cracks in your gutters or downspouts — this can lead to water damage on your commercial building and property.

Our roofing specialists at Matrix Roofing Systems proudly offer a hassle free maintenance service for all of your roofing inspection needs – contact us today!

How Do I Know if My Roof Needs to be Replaced?

It can be hard to determine exactly when you need a roof replacement because honestly, how often do you look at your roof? The answer is probably not often. However, inspecting your roof regularly and making little fixes when they’re needed can prevent some costly repairs down the road. Also, keeping your roof in good condition will be a huge plus if you decide to sell your building in the future. Here are some signs that your roof may need to be replaced:

•  If you notice loose panels. Loose roof panels can lead to leaking and expensive damage to your commercial building. Loose panels from storms, winds, and warping can also compromise the safety of your facility. While thieves generally try to force their way in through doors and windows, loose metal roof panels can also provide an easy way into your building. Small rodents and other animals can identify loose roof panels and make their way inside, as they love building nests in temperature controlled environments.
• The age of your roof is above 20 years. Most professionals say that a roof will generally last 20 to 25 years. This depends on various factors though. If the roof was installed over another layer or several layers and it is older than 20 years, chances are you need a new roof.
• If you see moisture or mold. Be sure to check for signs of moisture, rot, or mold. Mold and fungi can grow quickly, so make note of the wet spots on or underneath your roof. This is best done by a professional and can be addressed accordingly. If lots of problematic moldy areas are found, a roof replacement may be required.
• If you notice rising energy bills. A good roof should act as an insulating material to prevent your building from losing its heat during the winter season, and prevent an increasing amount of heat in during the summer season. If you notice that your energy bills continue to rise, don’t assume that it’s the other parts of your building that are causing the change. Be sure to have your roof assessed at least once a year to ensure it’s functioning the way it should.

Your roof is one of the most important parts of your building, so contact Matrix Roofing Systems, Inc. for all of your roofing needs!

The Importance of Roof Coatings

Adding a roof coating is an important aspect to consider when repairing and maintaining your roof. Over the years, your roof will develop some wear and tear, and a roof coating is an attractive and cost-effective option when this happens - instead of doing an entire roof replacement. They are a great way to keep your roof in shape and to prevent wear and tear from occurring in the first place.

A coating will protect the roof of your building from adverse weather and physical damage that can be caused by water, smoke, or dust. This will reduce maintenance costs and avoid completely re-roofing your building. Roof coatings also have benefits to energy use and the environment. Depending on the type, certain coatings are capable of reflecting light and UV radiation, which will lower interior temperatures. This can help reduce energy costs for your building!  However, different coating products can offer a combination of features to meet your roofing needs. 

Some of these features include:

• Elastomeric properties: This is the ability to expand and contract with temperature changes. For example, under extreme temperature changes an inflexible coating could crack leading to roofing issues.
• Chemical resistance: Choosing a coating material with chemical resistance can be beneficial because you’ll have peace of mind that your roof will be resistant to any chemicals. This type of coating is rust resistant and can be fire resistant.
• Waterproofing: The type of moisture in your climate and the slope of your roof come into consideration when choosing the right coating. Certain coatings can protect your building from moisture and can resist penetration from standing water if you live in a moister climate.

Various types of roof coatings are available to choose from, but there are multiple factors to consider before choosing one such as location, slope, heat, and UV rays. Many coatings are intended for use on specific roof types, and their application can depend on climate. Call Matrix Roofing to help you decide which roof coating would work best for your building!

 

Why Your Roof Could Use a Post Winter Check-Up

Now that winter is slowly coming to an end and the snow is melting, make it a priority of spring-cleaning business to check on how your roof fared through the colder months. Damages that might have been caused by snow, ice, wind, and cold temperatures can lead to major problems and costly repairs for you in the future! You want to inspect for obvious signs of damage like punctures in the roof membrane from falling tree limbs, and if you spot any major wear and tear, you might want to bring in a professional roofer. Here at Matrix Roofing Systems, Inc., we will make sure to maximize your roofs life expectancy and ensure the physical integrity of it.

There are a few important things to remember when it comes to post winter inspection of your commercial roof.

• During the winter season, the weight of snow and ice can damage your roof and even cause damage to the interior of your business.  Damage to your roof can include punctured or torn roof membrane. If you’ve noticed water spots on your ceiling, it could potentially be from a roof leak. These are issues that should be addressed immediately to determine if you need a roof repair or a complete replacement.
• Now is a perfect time to clear debris, leaves, and tree branches from your gutters and roof, so they can properly do their jobs during the rainy spring season. Loose objects, especially heavy ones, can tear through or seriously damage your roof’s membrane, so it’s important to get all debris removed Clogged gutters and scuppers can cause various problems like ice dams which cause damage to not only the gutters but also the life expectancy of your roof. Make sure to clean out your gutters and scuppers manually to avoid clogging the downspout, and then use your hose to flush out remaining residue.

Remember, safety is the number one priority, so call Matrix Roofing Systems, Inc. to set up an inspection of you roof. We’ll provide a thorough inspection and give you piece of mind that nothing was overlooked!

Importance of Roofing Insulation

Commercial roofing insulation acts as a protective blanket that’s wedged in between your roof’s surface and the roof deck. It’s used to reduce the transfer of heat.  Proper roofing insulation can protect your roof from mold, mildew, and high energy costs. A poorly insulated roof causes higher energy bills because your HVAC system needs to be constantly running to maintain your indoor comfort.

Air naturally travels from warm areas towards cooler areas, and insulation restricts this natural movement. Therefore, during the winter, insulation will prevent the cold air from coming into your facility through the ceilings. It works the same way during the summer – keeping the cool air inside and preventing it from moving towards warmer areas.

Here are some additional benefits of roof insulation:

• Reduce your carbon footprint: Insulation is an essential factor in minimizing your property’s carbon footprint because it saves energy. By insulating your roof, your building is naturally regulating its temperature, rather than having to resort to unnecessary artificial heating and cooling.
• Reduce Noise: Insulation can provide an extra physical barrier against irritating external sounds that may be bothering you. Roof insulation can significantly reduce the amount of noise pollution in your building, making everyone’s day more enjoyable.
• Avoid dampness and mold: Modern insulation can reduce the amount of condensation that forms in your roof by regulating the temperature internally. This reduces the opportunity for mold to form.

Insulating your roof can help create a comfortable environment for all people who spend their days inside your building.  If you need help deciding on the right insulation for your roof, consult with Matrix Roofing Systems, Inc. because expertise matters when it comes to insulating commercial roofing, as does experience.

How Often Should Commercial Roofing be Inspected?

Winter weather can wreak havoc on your commercial roof, and when it comes to your business and roofing you can’t take any changes as it pertains to your residents, employees or building equipment. This is why it’s so important to ensure that your commercial roof is in good working order and condition at all times.

We often receive questions about how often you should have your commercial roof inspected. The most important thing to consider if safety, and you can never truly be too safe. This blog will highlight when to have your commercial roof examined by a roofing professional and how often you should expect to have it inspected.

The rule of thumb in the roofing industry is to have your commercial grade roof inspected twice a year. We highly recommend an inspection during the spring and fall, before the extreme weather seasons. It’s generally easier to schedule roofing inspections during these times, and also in between seasons where your roof sees the most wear and tear. Of course, if it has been over six months since your last inspection, we highly recommend scheduling an inspection now rather than waiting for the end of the winter season.

If you have direct access to your roof, it might be tempting to complete a roofing inspection on your home. While it’s good to keep an eye out for obvious structural damage, nearby tree branches or pole wiring that could come in contact with your roof, a full roofing inspection is an in-depth and detailed process that requires a roofing professional. They can adequately and professional evaluate your roof, determine if any repairs or replacement need to be made, all while keeping you out of harms way.

If you have any questions or if it’s time for your biannual roofing inspection, click here to visit our website.