When Is the Right Time to Re-roof Your Multi-family Complex?
The roof over your tenants’ heads is of utmost importance, as it protects them from the elements and impacts the quality of life within your multi-family complex. However, reroofing an entire building can be a major expense, so properly timing this project is key. As a property manager, it’s critical to keep a close eye on the state of the roof and watch for warning signs that indicate replacement may be needed sooner rather than later. In this post, we’ll explore the top 5 warning signs that it’s time for a reroofing project. Identifying these issues early allows you to prepare budgets, get competitive bids from contractors, and schedule work during optimal times to minimize disruption for residents. Let’s dive in and see which signs mean your roof has reached the end of its useful life.
1) The Roofing Systems on Your Property Are Showing Signs of Aging
One compelling reason to consider replacing your roofs is their age. All roofs have a limited lifespan. However, if you have diligently maintained your roofs and promptly addressed any issues, they might exceed their expected lifespan. Therefore, don’t automatically assume that roof replacement is necessary simply because the warranty period is ending.
However, if any or all of the roofs in your complex have not been properly maintained or are currently facing any of the issues mentioned below, their longevity may be compromised. Improper installation can also lead to premature failure of your roofs. Commercial roofing contractors, sometimes unknowingly, make mistakes and take shortcuts. If they fail to follow proper installation specifications, including using manufacturer-recommended materials, your roofs may have a shortened lifespan or even worse consequences. To obtain certainty, it is advisable to have a qualified contractor inspect them.
2) You Find Yourself Spending Thousands of Dollars Each Year on Repairs on Your Commercial Roof
If you find yourself consistently spending a significant amount of money on roof repairs each year, it may be a clear indication that they are in need of replacement. Take a moment to review your records from the past few years and calculate the total amount you have spent on these repairs. It is important to consider not only the cost of repairing the roofs themselves, but also any damages to the interior of the buildings such as ceilings, walls, cabinets, and household items. If you do not already have this information, be sure to reach out to your residents to gather it.
Consider comparing your annual expenditure on repairs to the potential cost of installing a reliable commercial roofing system. If you find yourself spending $15-25K per year on repairs, that same amount could be allocated towards a new roof that ensures no leaks. Over time, this investment can accumulate significantly. Additionally, by taking this proactive approach, you can steer clear of costly roof failures in the future.
If you find yourself in a situation where your roofs are relatively new, yet you’re still facing high costs for repairs and maintenance, it indicates an issue with the installation. In such cases, it is advisable to have them inspected by a third party to identify and rectify any underlying problems.
3) You Notice Indications of Deterioration on Your Commercial Roofing System
Occasionally, even roofs that are relatively new may begin to deteriorate unexpectedly. Indications of deterioration can manifest as bare patches on the shingles, shingles that are warped, concave, or curled, or shingles that have suffered damage from storms or powerful gusts of wind.
Bald spots on asphalt shingles typically occur with lower-quality materials, where the granules may not be embedded properly during the manufacturing process. Cupped or curling shingles are often a result of excessive moisture or inadequate attic ventilation. If shingle pieces have blown off, it indicates a failure in adhesive. In cases where an entire shingle has blown off and the wind speed is within the roof’s rating, it suggests improper installation of the material.
Shingles that exhibit these issues fail to provide adequate roof protection, leading to potential leaks. Additionally, the sun’s UV rays can accelerate the degradation of unprotected areas, further increasing the risk of leaks. It is important to note that asphalt shingles, despite their prevalence, are not inherently waterproof. Their purpose is to safeguard the roof structure by facilitating the efficient runoff of water, particularly on steep-sloped buildings with a slope greater than 3:12 or a 25% slope angle.
If some of your roofs are showing signs of deterioration while others are still in good condition, it may be beneficial to consider a phased approach to re-roofing. Start by replacing the problematic roofs and then proceed to address the remaining roofs in the following year. Although it may seem more cost-effective to re-roof all buildings simultaneously, dividing the project into phases could provide better alignment with your overall budget.
4) You Are Interested in Enhancing the Visual Appeal of Your Community
The impact that new roofs can have on the appearance of a complex is truly remarkable. This is particularly true if your current roofs are of lower quality, fading, or in a color that doesn’t complement the rest of the property. Installing a new roof can quickly transform the look of your community.
To enhance the curb appeal and market value of your condo or townhome, as well as compete with neighboring properties that exude a refreshed and upscale aesthetic, consider upgrading your commercial roofs. With the vast array of options available for asphalt shingles, you have the opportunity to visually transform your buildings while ensuring commercial roofing solutions that will last for many years to come.
5)Â You Want to Make Additions or Enhance Other Parts of the Property
When considering property improvements like painting buildings, repaving parking lots and driveways, adding canopies, or upgrading landscaping, lighting, or signage, it’s important to also think about the roofs. Replacing the roofs alongside these other enhancements can have a synergistic impact, amplifying the overall effect.
When planning to make additions or construct new buildings in a community, it is important to select commercial roofing products that coordinate well with the existing structures. This ensures a cohesive and visually appealing property. While you can occasionally match the existing roofs perfectly, there may be instances where choosing the same type of shingle in a different color is more suitable. This approach helps avoid drawing attention to any fading roof color.
In some cases, it may be more practical to re-roof all existing buildings to ensure uniformity among the roofs. While each situation is unique, consolidating the roof replacement process can yield economies of scale. By addressing all roofing needs simultaneously, you maximize efficiency for your commercial roofing contractor. Remember, coordinating the re-roofing efforts will ultimately prove more efficient and cost-effective.
Commercial Roofing Services by Camel City Roofing
When it comes to commercial roofing, Camel City Roofing has established itself as a leader in the industry. With over 30 years of experience, our team of experts is dedicated to providing top-quality commercial roofing systems for businesses and communities alike. Our expertise extends beyond just installing new roofs; we also specialize in repairs and inspections to ensure your roof remains in top condition.
At Camel City Roofing, we understand the importance of a well-maintained and visually appealing roof for businesses and communities. That’s why we offer a wide range of roofing options, including asphalt shingles, metal roofing, flat roofs, and more. Our team is committed to providing reliable and efficient services that meet your specific needs and budget.
Contact us today for all your commercial roofing services and let us help you enhance the visual appeal, protect your property, and increase its market value. Trust in our expertise and experience to provide you with exceptional results that will exceed your expectations. Choose Camel City Roofing for all of your roofing needs and see the difference we can make!