Picking the most appropriate roofers in Chattanooga TN to replace a aged roof

Picking the correct roofing contractors Chattanooga to replace a old roof – or identifying the best choice for a new building – is no easy task. The perfect roofing solution for one building may be the worst option for another just down the street. That’s because no two buildings are precisely alike, even if they closely resemble each other. So how do you choose a new roof, given all the choices in the marketplace? You can start by asking a series of questions, before you choose the roof, the roofers in Chattanooga TN or the manufacturer.

1. What is this building’s mission statement?
Before calls are made to roofers in Chattanooga TN, the first item to address is the company’s mission statement as it relates to the building.

More often than not, the building itself dictates the appropriate roofing system specification.
Does the roofing contractors Chattanoogaplan to keep this building as part of its real estate assets for the next 10 to 20 years? Are there any plans to expand it in the near future, or to change its use? What are its current and future occupancy, insulation requirements, aesthetic priorities and even the maintenance schedules for rooftop equipment?

But, if the facility has a special use, such as an airline reservation center with computers in it, then your considerations for roofing options are quite different.

For example, as more roofing companies Chattanoogamove toward operating 24 hours daily, seven days a week to satisfy global customers, the data center must never spring a rooftop leak. Water on computer systems generally spells disaster.

A special set of concerns arise for cooling-dominated climates. Does the @list:keyword contribute to air conditioning savings and address other key issues? Is it part of a total energy program? There is a growing concern about urban heat islands. Reflective, white roofs have become of interest in those areas for a few reasons. They keep the building cooler, reduce air conditioning costs and also minimize the heat-loading of the surrounding environment.

2. What physical and other elements influence the roofers in Chattanooga TNsystem selection?

You need to begin by looking at the building’s location and the attributes of its surrounding area.

When it comes to @list:keyword, you need to list the attributes of the roof area itself. A good @list:keyword would detail the roof’s size, shape, slope, deck construction, edge detailing, protrusions, rooftop access and existing roofing system. Along with this basic information, you need to find out why the original roof is no longer adequate.

3. What flexible-membrane @list:keyword options are available?

Thermoplastic membranes are based on plastic polymers.

Hypalon thermoplastic begins as a thermoplastic, but cures over time to become a thermoset.

Modified bitumen membranes incorporate the formulation and prefabrication advantages of flexible-membrane @list:keyword with some of the traditional installation techniques used in built-up @list:keyword. Modified bitumen sheets are factory-fabricated, composed of asphalt which is modified with a rubber or plastic polymer for increased flexibility, and combined with a reinforcement for added strength and stability.

4. Which type of membrane and attachment system are best for the building?

Many factors determine the best system for a particular building. For most buildings, there are a number of options and advantages that need to be weighed against the facility’s mission statement. The decision should not be made only on the basis of cost. Other important considerations for membranes are building height, wind exposure, anticipated roof traffic and aesthetics.

There are other limitations to ballasted systems, such as roof height, proximity to shorelines and other high wind zones, and the availability of ballast.

For those concerned with building aesthetics, colored membranes can make an attractive contribution to the building’s appearance.

5. Does all roofing material delivered to the job site bear the UL label?

Using an insulation other than what was tested with the roofing membrane may void the UL classification.

Make sure that the product you are getting is the actual product that was tested. You don’t want something that is similar but not equal. Look for the label at the job site and make sure all components of the system were tested together. You want the membrane tested with the insulation that you are using on your building.

6. Does the system require a wind uplift rating?
Wind uplift damage can be extensive and expensive. Accepted as an industry standard, American Society of Civil Engineers Standard 7-95, “Minimum Design Loads for Buildings and Other Structures,” can be used to determine the wind zone of the building. Wind uplift testing, such as that performed at Factory Mutual or Underwriters Laboratories, can be used to determine that the selected roof system meets or exceeds the local wind uplift requirements.

7. How much does the completed system add to the dead load weight of the @list:keyword structure?

In choosing any @list:keyword option, the facility executive should be aware of the load-bearing capacity of the roof deck to make sure the right flexible-membrane option is chosen. In new @list:keyword construction, savings in structural steel can often be achieved by installing one of the lighter flexible-membrane systems.

A ballasted thermoplastic or EPDM roof may require in excess of 1,000 pounds per 100 square feet, while a mechanically attached or fully adhered thermoset or thermoplastic membrane weighs 33 pounds per 100 square feet.

8. What are the expertise and financial strengths of the @list:keyword you are considering?

@list:keyword need to be chosen with great care. The introduction of new roofing materials and application techniques within the past 10 years has led to many changes. A professional @list:keyword should be familiar with different types of roofing systems, to help you make the best decision for your facility, based on your budget.

Insist the contractor supply you with copies of insurance certificates that verify workers’ compensation and general liability coverages.

The installation of different @list:keyword systems varies considerably. @list:keyword Education and training are the most important elements in the installation of roofing systems. Make sure the professional @list:keyword you choose has had detailed and ongoing training on the system being installed.

One rule of thumb is to find out if the contractor has installed at least 100,000 square feet of the system you want in the past 18 months.

9. What is warranted and by whom?

There are two basic categories of roofing warranties. The @list:keyword contractor’s warranty typically covers workmanship. The manufacturer’s warranty covers at least the materials, though many cover additional items. Even if the manufacturer’s warranty is broad, it will not completely protect you if the roof is improperly installed.

Carefully read and understand any roofing warranty offered and watch for provisions that would void it. For example, it’s nearly impossible to avoid all ponded water. Ponded water can be caused by a clogged roof drain or deflection of the roof deck in between the support columns. Proper roof maintenance can help assure that the warranty remains valid. Be aware of warranty language that voids the guarantee.

Most professional roofing contractors will offer periodic maintenance inspections throughout the year. These inspections help ensure your project complies with the standards specified in the warranty.

10. After the roof is installed, what after good service and educational programs are available for the facilities management team?

Specific courses are available to help building owners and facilities managers learn more about various roofing systems, materials and components; insulation and accessory products; elements of roof design; contractor selection; warranties and maintenance considerations.

 

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