We know you need to be confident in the roof over your head and Storm Damage Specialists is here to help. When you become our client, our top-quality products and conscientious installation mean you can have that confidence. However, the roofing process can seem daunting, so let’s address some common questions and concerns many clients have about commercial roofing.
How do I know if my roof can be repaired or if I will need a new roof?
Every roof is different, so before we make a recommendation, we will conduct a thorough inspection and inform you of your options. Since repair is usually the least intrusive and most economical option, we do everything we can to opt for repair before a total replacement. Almost everything we see is repairable, though a repair may only buy you 2 to 5 years before a replacement is needed. This is especially true if your roof has been repaired multiple times in the past. If the inspection results show that replacement is the best or the most economical option long-term, that will be our recommendation. We will ensure you come away with all the information you need to make an informed decision.
What is the inspection process like?
When you contact us, our team will conduct a complete thorough inspection of your roof within 48 hours. We will look at siding, roofing, flashings, and any potential spots where water could get into your building. In the case of interior finished spaces we will look inside to see if the drywall or insulation has water damage. If needed, we will do a temporary drywall repair to ensure bugs and other critters are not getting in and cold air is not getting out. In cases where tree branches could potentially be problematic during the repair or cause damage in the future, we will suggest that a tree service be called to address the problem. In all cases, we will note any issues found during our initial inspection so there are no surprises when we conduct the repair. Then, we will develop a complete workup and estimate and walk you through it line-by-line. In the end, we will be sure to answer your questions, show you all your options, and give you the recommendation we would choose if it were our building.
What types of roofing are available?
There are three main types of roofing systems commonly used in our area and climate: single-ply, built-up, and foam. Single-ply roofs are composed of a PVC, TPO, or EPDM membrane. TPO roofing membranes are the best of the three materials and provide exceptional resistance to UV light, chemicals, and ozone and provide the best barrier for impacts, punctures, and tears. Built-up roofs are similar to single-ply roofs but are composed of multiple layers with tar in between. While foam roofs are common, they are usually not the best option for quality and longevity. If you have a foam roof, depending on how well it was installed and maintained, we may opt to tear it off and replace it with a built-up roof. We will generally recommend a built-up roof because of its reliability and longevity.
How long will my new roof last? Is there a warranty?
We know that you care about overall value, and we do too. However, going with the cheapest option will not always give you the best value in the long term. The longevity of your roof will depend on many factors, including the type of roof, slope, ventilation, weather events and other variables. However, our maintenance programs will extend the life of your roof. If you conduct preventative maintenance, such as recoating every 2-5 years, most roofs can last you 50 years. We choose to work with only the highest quality materials and are meticulous with our installation so you are set up for success from the beginning. Because we are certified installers for our products, your warranty is based on the manufacturer’s terms.
What goes into maintaining a new roof?
With our Arizona climate, roof maintenance usually means regularly applying an acrylic or silicone coating, as it naturally wears over time. We apply layers that are thick enough to resist damage from the sun, wind, rain, and other elements. On flat roofs, we typically recoat every two to five years, extending the life of your roof to 50-70 years if continuously maintained.
What happens if my roof has storm damage?
Severe weather can affect your roof in a number of ways. Strong wind can tear the roofing membrane from the deck. Winds can topple roof structures and strain connections. Hail can damage your roofing system, and winds can drop debris causing damage. Wind-driven debris is the biggest cause of storm damage. Any of these events can lead to leaks and other interior damage. Some damage is immediately apparent, like the impact from a fallen tree branch while others may not. Since there are many types of potential storm damage, and some may not be obvious but cause problems down the road we suggest that an inspection be performed if you are concerned that your roof may have received damage. Wind can cause harm to the adhesive seal and break the water-shedding surface, and hail can cause bruising to the shingles while removing the protective granules, allowing water to infiltrate over time and the untrained eye may not detect these problems. There is never a cost for an inspection. After our inspection, we will inform you if we believe an insurance claim may be your best option. If you decide to file a claim, we will guide you through the process so everything is done correctly and you get paid properly.
What if my roof repair is an emergency?
Damage to your roof does not happen based on what is most convenient to your schedule. Our call center is available 24/7 to deal with any emergencies that may arise. We have employees stationed throughout southern Arizona, from Phoenix to Casa Grande and Tuscon. Most of the time we can be at your location within an hour, even in the middle of the night. We will come out, take care of the emergency, and schedule an inspection. The follow-up inspection usually occurs as soon as the sun comes up the next day.
How will roof repair affect my business operations?
We understand commercial roofing and know it’s important to stay open, even when your roof needs attention. We know how important it is for you to continue your business operations uninterrupted while we repair your roof. We go into every project aiming to minimize disruption for the client. This means we can work outside your operating hours, including nights if necessary. In addition, we offer general contracting services like drywall and painting to make for a smooth and efficient process. Our team’s goal is to leave every site better than when we arrived. We clean up all big and small debris using rakes and magnets to ensure nothing is left behind. Ideally, you won’t even know we are there until you are left with your finished roof. If damage creates a business disruption, we will work with your insurance company to make sure your company doesn’t have any lost revenue.
How do you work with solar panels?
Solar panels are widespread in Arizona, so we have plenty of experience working with different solar companies and installations. If you have a leak in your roof with existing panels, we will work directly with the solar company that installed them, or another qualified solar energy company. We will often need to pull the panel off and check the mounts since that is usually where the leak comes from. We aim to work with solar companies to ensure that solar panels are installed correctly from the beginning to avoid future problems. We currently build roofs for multiple solar companies in southern Arizona, so we don’t see the delays other companies see when attempting to bring in solar contractors.
What types of commercial buildings do you work with?
We have experience working with buildings roofs ranging from 200 to 250,000 square feet. Our clients range from small shops to large industrial facilities and warehouses, and large multi-family apartments and condos. We have served big box stores, strip malls, and everything in between. Regardless of the size of the roof, most of the process is the same from inspection to installation. No matter the scope of your repair, we have you covered.
Since every client is different, you may have questions that are unique to your situation. Contact us to schedule a free inspection and get informed about your options.
