The commercial low slope roofing market is flooded with options. Built Up Roofs,
Modified Bitumen, EPDM, TPO, PVC and PVC + KEE products are the most common
options. Choosing the right product is an important decision. It’s also an expensive one.
By doing your homework, you can distinguish which choice will best protect your assets.
The following are the most important questions to ask before buying a roof.
- What is the product’s performance record?
Look for proof that the product already stands up to the tests you plan to give it. If
you want your roof to last 20 years, withstanding exposure to harsh chemicals and
intense sunshine, ask the manufacturer for examples of similar success stories in your
environment. Be aware: Many products that start out performing like champions lose
their original physical properties with age. Request aged physical property tests.
- What is the real cost of this roof?
Figuring the cost of your roof requires looking far beyond the sticker price. Additional
information about the system must be considered to determine the real value of the
roof. The product’s proven life in a given environment has the most impact
on the roof’s overall life cycle cost. Additional factors include: the energy savings
it can bring if it is a reflective roof system, typical maintenance and repair costs, and
also, if necessary, the cost of disposing of the roof when it’s old.
According to the United States Department of Energy, in most northern regions of
the country, reflective roof systems can save between $0.05 and $0.10 per square foot
per year. In some southern states, savings can be more than $0.20 per square foot per
year. Be sure to ask the manufacturer for life-cycle cost data.
- Who stands behind the system and what kind of service
and warranty do they offer?
Don’t overestimate the value of a warranty. In many cases, it’s just a piece of paper
used as a marketing tool. A warranty for 15 or 20 years makes you feel safe the day you
buy it, but first get proof that the roof system will last that long. Will the manufacturer
last that long?
Take time to understand the warranty, especially its exclusions. Many warranties
are pro-rated and exclude common conditions like ponding water, hail, oil or grease.
Definitions for wind speed can be vague. Request references to measure customer
satisfaction with warranty claims.
Big or small manufacturer, nothing is more important than their integrity and proven
commitment to service and product performance.
- Who will install my roof and what is their experience with
this system?
The best roof system in the world put in the wrong hands can fail. The quality of the
finished product depends on the experience of the installer. Check to see if the product
manufacturer provides installation training and ask for a complete project list to verify
customer satisfaction.
- Will this system remain viable over time, allowing me to make
alterations or repairs?
Because some systems’ original physical properties change with age, they can
become next to impossible to modify or repair. It’s common to make alterations after
installation, such as changing the HVAC system, or adding rooftop equipment, exhaust
fans or skylights. Make sure repairs meet manufacturer’s specifications to lessen
possible frustrations.
- Does this system meet the performance standards required by
my insurance company?
Make sure you understand the local fire codes and your insurance underwriter’s
requirements regarding the fire and wind performance characteristics of your roof.
Communicate them to the supplier. Remember: Many systems lose the integrity of their
performance ratings with time.
In the end, your choice will only be as good as your information. Taking time to
understand your requirements and the capabilities of the roofing system will make a big
difference in your satisfaction.
Click here and we’ll send you a life cycle cost calculator so you can determine a rough
estimate of the life cycle cost of your present roof, or compare it to an alternative roofing
system.
For more information about FiberTite Roof Systems please call Seaman Corporation at
(800) 927-8578, ext. 5953. Ask for Art Marangi.
Terry Anderson
FiberTite Roofing Systems
Southeast Regional Manager