March 2024 eNewsletter
In this eNewsletter, we will discuss some specific roofing details that you should pay attention to while preparing your facility for spring storms. We will take a deeper look at the specific challenges that affect roofs in various regions of North America and suggest ways to tackle them. Furthermore, we will debunk some common TPO myths in our new "Separating Facts from Fiction" series. Lastly, we will look into an all-in-one building envelope solution that is specially designed for new construction. Please continue to the articles below!Roofing Details Make a Difference: An Up Close Look at Your Roof's Components
Roofing season is upon us. With the turbulent weather we all experienced this winter, it's essential to truly understand how the past storms may have affected every component of your roof system. Paying close attention to roof components like drains, scuppers, flashings, pipes, pitch pans and more is vital for proper maintenance and ensuring that your roof will withstand the elements. Let's look closer at those items to understand their function and how to address their condition during your seasonal maintenance.
Commercial roof drainage systems, what to look for:
The drainage system of your roof is crucial in preventing ponding water, which can eventually cause leaks and damage. Ponding water may stress your entire roof system by adding unnecessary weight, deteriorating your roof’s surface, encouraging plant, algae or fungi growth, becoming breeding grounds for mosquitoes and attracting birds to nest on rooftops by providing a water source. Unlike steep-sloped roofs, where water can flow down the slope, flat and low-sloped roofs rely on drainage systems and scuppers to channel rainwater. It is essential to conduct regular inspections and cleaning of these to ensure proper water runoff.
✓ Drains: A roof drain is a feature that channels water runoff from the roof through the interior of the building, using piping that discharges the water onto the ground or into a storm sewer. These projections are essential for flat roofs and are placed strategically around your roof to collect any ponding water in specific sections. Strainer baskets around those drains catch debris to prevent clogging of the system. To ensure optimal performance, it is important to regularly clean and inspect the drains and baskets, especially during the fall season when there is foliage, after storms and snowmelt. Clogged strainer baskets will result in ponding water, while damaged strainer baskets may also allow debris to travel down the pipe and clog the drain. In both cases, ponding water may result in water damage and additional stress on your roof.
✓ Scuppers: A roof scupper is an architectural feature facilitating roof drainage by allowing water runoff at the edge of your roof. Like a roof drain, a scupper may get clogged by debris and cause ponding water. In cold climates, water may freeze at the scruppers as they are part of a wall and cannot take advantage of the building's interior temperature like a water drain would. It is imperative to ensure your scuppers are clean and unobstructed to prevent water from ponding or freezing around the roof's edges.
✓ Gutters: Some commercial roofs may also have gutters, particularly steep-slope roofs. These channels are designed to collect water around the edges of your roof and are also prone to debris collection or freezing. If your commercial property has gutters, add gutter cleaning to your maintenance checklist to avoid drain system backup.
✓ Downspout: This feature receives rainwater from drains and scuppers allowing it to flow to the ground or sewage. Clogged or frozen downspouts will prevent proper drainage and result in ponding water on top of your roof.
To ensure all your drain system elements are adequately cleaned and maintained, it is recommended to have a preventative maintenance plan. Explore various options here: Preventative Maintenance Page.
Keep it sealed, check the condition of all flashings and pitch-pans:
✓ Flashing: When the roof membrane meets a vertical surface like a wall, vent or HVAC, there's an opportunity for water intrusion. To prevent that, commercial roofers install flashing, a strip or panel of roof membrane to protect that seam. Over time, roof flashings are exposed to multiple factors like extreme temperature, freeze-and-thaw cycles, damage from an impact (for example, during a storm), wind uplift stressing the entire roof system and so on. When those factors finally cause separation, water can penetrate the roof assembly. Checking the integrity of your flashings with a commercial roofing professional from CentiMark is an essential part of your preparation for the upcoming storm and hurricane season. Request a comprehensive roof evaluation to ensure flashings around the roof's edge and rooftop projections are in good condition.
✓ Pitch-pans and pitch-pockets: These are metal containers with a sealant that wraps around various roof penetrations to ensure waterproofing. If your facility has roof penetrations, you are more likely to find those features on your roof. With age, temperature extremes, vibration or pressure from projections, pitch-pans and pockets may experience various issues, from a shrinking sealant to shifting. Once the seal is compromised, water can penetrate your building around the projection. A roof maintenance plan that includes regular roof evaluations and timely repairs is the best way to prevent this from happening.
Why paying attention matters:
Regular maintenance of drains, flashings and other roofing details is essential for preventing leaks and protecting the integrity of your building. Addressing wear and tear promptly can significantly extend the life of your roof, saving you costs in the long run. The health of your roof lies in the details. By understanding, inspecting and addressing these components, you prepare your building to face the elements and ensure a resilient structure for years. If you have any questions or want to schedule a detailed roof evaluation, contact us today! We're here to assist you in preparing your roof for the challenges ahead.
Weathering the Elements: Region-Specific Commercial Roofing Challenges in North America
North America has a wide range of climates and weather patterns, including cold and stormy winters in the North and scorching heat in the South. It also has a wide variety of landscapes, from rainforests to deserts. This diversity poses unique challenges for commercial facilities when it comes to roofing. Let's explore the region-specific commercial roofing challenges in North America and discuss how you can address these issues to ensure the longevity and performance of your roof.
Winter weather in Northern regions:
In northern parts of the continent, particularly in Canada and the northern United States, cold temperatures, heavy snowfall and freeze-and-thaw cycles are common challenges for commercial roofs. These conditions can lead to ice dams, snow accumulation and thermal shock. To address these challenges, commercial buildings in these regions often require robust insulation, proper drainage systems and roofing materials that can handle the stress caused by temperature fluctuations. Preventative maintenance is a key aspect of keeping your roof in top condition. It allows you to identify and fix any minor problems caused by snow, ice and thermal shock before they become major issues, resulting in expensive repairs. Removing snow from your roof is essential in regions with heavy snowfall, since just one inch of wet, dense snow equals 1.66 lbs/sq.ft. Heavy snowfall can add a lot of extra weight to your roof, which may be unevenly distributed due to snowdrifts, rooftop projections or architectural features. At some point, the weight capacity of your roof may be exceeded, causing it to sag and even collapse. Snowmelt may also overwhelm your roof drainage system, particularly if it wasn’t adequately cleaned from leaves and debris in the fall and cause ponding water. Contact a CentiMark representative to discuss your specific situation and schedule a comprehensive roof inspection to determine the needs of your facility’s roof.
Hurricanes in the Southeast:
The southern United States is threatened by hurricanes and tropical storms. Extreme winds, heavy rain and flying debris during these storms can cause significant damage to commercial roofs. Facility managers in hurricane-prone regions rely on impact-resistant roofing materials, regular inspections and maintenance to ensure their roofs can withstand the forces of a hurricane. To address post-storm roof emergencies, check out our 24/7 emergency repair service. To learn more about the impact of high winds on your roof and what you can do about it, read this article. Also, check out this quick to-do list to prepare your facility for a hurricane.
UV, extreme heat and monsoons in the Southwest:
The southwestern United States and parts of Mexico experience intense heat and prolonged exposure to UV radiation. This may result in the gradual deterioration of roofing materials over time, including cracking, fading and loss of elasticity. Commercial buildings in these areas should opt for reflective roofing materials that can mitigate heat absorption and UV-resistant coatings to protect against the damaging effects of prolonged sun exposure. To help you with your facility’s cooling expenses this spring and summer, check out this article.
Monsoons are seasonal storms that occur during the summer months in the southwestern United States, particularly in Arizona and New Mexico. These storms are known for their intensity and can bring heavy rainfall, strong winds and flash floods. Commercial roofs in these regions are particularly vulnerable to damage during monsoons, making it important for businesses to prioritize effective drainage systems, waterproofing measures and materials that can withstand prolonged exposure to moisture. Regular inspections before the onset of monsoon season can help identify and address potential vulnerabilities, ensuring that commercial roofs are well-prepared to weather the challenges brought on by these intense and unpredictable storms. With over 600+ crews nationwide, we are here to assist you 24/7 in case of a roofing emergency.
Tornado Alley:
Stretching from the central United States to parts of Canada, this region is known for its frequent tornado activity. High winds and flying debris can cause severe damage to commercial roofs. Building owners in these regions should prioritize reinforced roofing systems, such as strong membranes, a layer of impact-resistant cover board and enhanced wind-resistant features, to minimize the risk of damage during tornadoes. Make sure to perform regular roof inspections and complete all needed repairs and maintenance to ensure your facility’s roof is as ready as it can be to weather an extreme wind event. Having a comprehensive condition report prepared before the storm hits may also help you streamline your post-tornado insurance claims. We offer 24/7 emergency services to quickly get your facility back to watertight in case of severe storm damage, including partial or complete blow-offs.
Rainfall events in the Pacific Northwest:
The Pacific Northwest frequently experiences heavy rainfall. Excessive moisture can lead to issues like roof leaks, mold or algae growth and structural damage. Commercial buildings in this region must have effective drainage systems, proper waterproofing and routine inspections to prevent water-related damage. Check out this article, to learn more about various strategies to extend the life of your roof.
Wildfires and flying embers:
Wildfires have been a growing concern across various regions of North America due to their increasing frequency and intensity in recent years. During these devastating events, flying embers can reach a building’s roof. If an ember lands on a flammable surface on your roof, it can start a new fire. To reduce this risk, it's important to ensure your roof is free from debris and vegetation that may serve as fuel. Businesses should also consider using roofing materials with high fire resistance in areas prone to wildfires. Additionally, maintaining a defensible space around the property by removing combustible debris and vegetation can help reduce the risk of ember ignition. Regular roof inspections are crucial in identifying and addressing any vulnerabilities, such as compromised membranes, to safeguard commercial structures from the potential hazards of wildfires, which have become a threat affecting different parts of North America.
Addressing region-specific commercial roofing challenges in North America requires a tailored approach that considers the unique weather conditions prevalent in each area. By partnering with your roofing team at CentiMark, investing in preventative maintenance and climate-specific solutions, you can ensure the longevity and durability of your commercial roof system, ultimately protecting your assets and providing a secure environment for employees and customers. Need help with your roof? Click/tap on the button below!
Separating Facts from Fiction Series: TPO Roofing Concerns Addressed
In recent times, Thermoplastic Olefin (TPO) roofing has gained immense popularity due to its energy efficiency, long-lasting performance and resistance to fungi and UV rays. However, like any widely used material, TPO roofing is not immune to misconceptions and myths, mainly because the technology is relatively new compared to some other roof systems. This article will address common TPO roofing myths and concerns and clarify misunderstandings.
Concern #1: I heard TPO roofing is expensive. Is that right?
Contrary to the notion that TPO roofing is pricey, it is quite economical. In fact, it is known for providing an excellent return on investment. The installation process is typically faster and requires less labor than other roof systems. Moreover, TPO roofing is energy-efficient, which can lead to long-term savings on energy bills. The durability and bioresistance of TPO roofs allow you to spend less on ongoing maintenance and repairs, resulting in significant cumulative savings over the life of your roof. Many companies consider TPO roofing to be a financially wise investment.
Concern #2: Some say TPO roofs don't last long. Is that true?
One common myth surrounding TPO roofing is its relatively shorter life and premature aging in certain climates. In reality, TPO roofing is known for its remarkable resilience and durability. High-quality TPO membranes are designed to withstand extreme weather conditions, UV radiation and temperature fluctuations. When installed properly and maintained regularly, TPO roofing can last 20 years or more, making it a reliable and long-lasting roofing option.
Concern #3: They say condensation will be a problem.
Due to potential condensation issues, white TPO roofs (along with other cool roofs) have been under scrutiny in recent years. Some have claimed that cool roofs are more susceptible to excessive condensation within the roof system, especially in colder climates. But what causes this phenomenon? During cold weather, warm and humid air from inside the building tends to move upwards. This air can infiltrate roofing assemblies through openings, unsealed joints or around penetrations. When the humid air comes in contact with surfaces that are below the dew point, the moisture in the air condenses. It's common for this to occur on the membrane's underside, which can sometimes create unexplainable water drips in the building. White TPO's high reflectivity helps it stay below the dew point for extended periods. This can cause condensation and moisture drips. To prevent the condensation issue, it is crucial to make sure that the roof system is installed and sealed correctly and to conduct regular maintenance and repairs. Noticed condensation? Contact your local CentiMark roofing professional and let's figure out the source together!
If you are considering installing a new TPO roof or want to prolong the life of your current roof system, it is important to choose a reliable contractor. The quality of installation, regular maintenance and prompt repairs are essential for maximizing the life of your roof. CentiMark has a team of skilled roofing professionals who can assist you in ensuring a seamless and stress-free TPO roofing experience. Please get in touch with us if you have any questions or require assistance. We are committed to providing you with expertise and support for all your roofing needs.
Opting for Partnership, Not Vendorship: Consolidate Your Roofing, Flooring and Painting Needs
If you're a general contractor looking for a reliable partner for your next large construction project, our team is here to help. You’ve probably already heard about DataCon, CentiMark’s new construction roofing division. Now, with our QuestMark Construction Services division, we can provide you with an all-in-one solution that includes flooring and painting.
QuestMark, a division of CentiMark Corporation, offers various services from interior flooring to exterior traffic solutions and painting, to help you simplify project management and consolidate vendors. Their portfolio includes large new construction and renovation projects across North America. They work with strategic partners like Sherwin Williams, SASE and Hi-Tech Systems to deliver premium quality results while centrally managing all your coating and resurfacing needs.
QuestMark’s services and capabilities include:
✓ Interior commercial floor solutions
✓ Exterior surface coatings
✓ Painting
✓ Pavement markings
What sets QuestMark's team apart:
✓ Warranties: They provide three levels of warranty coverage, including comprehensive coverage for all materials, labor and tooling used to maintain the floor's gloss. Visit their warranty page to learn more.
✓ Communication: With over 100 sales and administrative associates nationwide and a team of 15 contractor services professionals, they are always available to assist you.
✓ Extensive experience in large-scale projects: Their portfolio includes clients in various industries, such as technology and data centers, manufacturing, aviation, commercial real estate and retail.
✓ Bandwidth: As the most extensive nationwide commercial flooring company, QuestMark has the resources and capacity to handle more work than any other flooring contractor. This advantage translates into greater ease in meeting your project deadlines.
QuestMark contractor services include:
✓ Pre-construction: With over 55 years of experience and an excellent safety program, QuestMark's team can help identify potential strategies and risks that could affect your project's success. They deeply understand the detailed drawings and specifications necessary to develop a comprehensive and accurate bid.
✓ Construction management: They have extensive experience in delivering precise flooring and coating solutions for various industries. QuestMark Construction Services division also has a dedicated administrative team for large contracts to ensure timely and accurate submission of crucial documents.
✓ Post-construction: QuestMark offers comprehensive warranties to ensure that our clients receive the necessary assistance for any technical problems or repairs that may arise. They also provide on-site demonstrations, customized maintenance plans and training to help the customers maintain their facility's surfaces and appearance. QuestMark also offers an online shop for fast and convenient restocking of DIY flooring products like professional-grade cleaning solutions or patch repair kits.
We are excited to offer general contractors roofing, flooring and painting services all in one package. Take advantage of our extensive experience in large-scale projects, unmatched bandwidth and our range of services and capabilities. Our best-in-the-industry warranties, proactive communication and specialized teams are always ready to assist you. If you're interested in discussing your next construction or renovation project, please don't hesitate to contact us.