Guide to Commercial Roofing in Cherry Hill, New Jersey
Introduction
As a business owner in Cherry Hill New Jersey, (or anywhere in the North East), you understand the importance of maintaining your commercial property. One of the crucial aspects of property maintenance is your roof. Over time, commercial roofs can deteriorate due to wear and tear, weather conditions, and other factors. When this happens, it becomes necessary to consider roof replacement. In this comprehensive guide, we will provide you with valuable insights and expert advice on commercial roof replacement as well as a few other important tidbits of information pertaining to commercial roofing. Whether you have a small business or a large enterprise, this guide will help you make informed decisions regarding your commercial roofing needs.
If you are a business owner and need a commercial roof replacement in Cherry Hill, New Jersey, (or surrounding areas), take some time to give this a read.
Commercial Roof Replacement
When it comes to commercial roof replacement, it’s essential to choose a reliable and experienced roofing company. A commercial roofing company specializes in installing, repairing, and replacing roofs for commercial properties. These professionals have the expertise, equipment, and knowledge to handle projects of varying sizes and complexities.
Hiring a commercial roofing company offers several advantages. Firstly, they have access to high-quality roofing materials that are specifically designed for commercial applications. Secondly, they employ skilled and trained professionals who can efficiently complete the roof replacement process. Additionally, commercial roofing companies are well-versed in local building codes and regulations, ensuring that your new roof meets all the necessary standards.
Factors to Consider for Commercial Roof Replacement
1. Roof Inspection
Before proceeding with roof replacement, it’s crucial to conduct a thorough inspection of your existing roof. A professional commercial roofing contractor can assess the condition of your roof, identify any underlying issues, and provide you with an accurate evaluation. This inspection helps determine whether a roof replacement is necessary or if repairs can suffice. Additionally, most commercial roofing contractors will come out to your property, inspect it, and give you a replacement estimate free of charge. Utilize this free service with a few different roofing companies in order to gauge professionalism and likeability.
After you’ve had a few contractors come out to provide a free estimate, do not forget to check their Google Business Profile. They should have an assortment of reviews from previous customers that you can read through to verify their professionalism and commitment to quality service. They should also (generally speaking) have at least a cumulative rating of 4 stars. Anything below that should most likely be avoided
2. Roofing Materials
Choosing the right roofing materials is vital for the success and longevity of your commercial roof replacement. There are various options available, including:
TPO (Thermoplastic Olefin): TPO roofs are energy-efficient and resistant to UV radiation, chemicals, and punctures. They are a popular choice for commercial properties.
- PVC(Polyvinyl Chloride) Basically a plastic, single-ply roofing material. PVC is known for lending itself to cooling and being energy efficient
EPDM (Ethylene Propylene Diene Monomer): EPDM roofs are durable and cost-effective. They are known for their excellent resistance to extreme weather conditions.
Metal Roofing: Metal roofs are known for their longevity and durability. They are highly resistant to fire, impact, and harsh weather elements.
Modified Bitumen: Modified bitumen roofs are known for their flexibility and strength. They are particularly suitable for flat or low-slope roofs. Modified Bitumen is not as popular as it once was.
A professional commercial roofing contractor can guide you in selecting the most appropriate roofing material based on your specific needs, budget, and building requirements. But generally, for most flat-sloped roofs, we (and most other commercial roofing contractors) recommend PVC is the current best roofing material on the market. It has the best warranty, it’s very energy efficient, and the material lends itself well to the area in the northeast part of the US, with its seasonal fluctuations in weather.
For more information on choosing the best roofing materials and why we recommend PVC for most commercial flat roofs, read our previous article entitled “what is the best commercial roofing material?”
frequent inspections are necessary to catch small issues that can potentially turn into much larger ones
3. Budget
Replacing a commercial roof is a significant investment. It’s crucial to set a realistic budget for the project. Factors that can influence the cost include the size of the roof, the complexity of the installation, the chosen roofing materials, and any additional features or accessories.
That being said, when it comes to commercial roofing, the cheapest option is usually not the best, and considering your commercial roof is arguably the most important element of your building, your roof is probably not an area where you want to go dirt cheap on! Usually, the option somewhere in the middle will provide great quality for a long amount of time. You don’t need the Cadillac option, but the Jalopy usually won’t cut the mustard!
To ensure you stay within your budget, obtain quotes from multiple reputable commercial roofing companies. Compare their prices, but also consider the company’s reputation, experience, and customer reviews.
As stated earlier, to ensure you stay within your budget, obtain quotes from multiple reputable commercial roofing companies. Compare the prices, but also consider the company’s reputation, experience, and customer reviews. Remember that the cheapest option may not always provide the best quality.
4. Timeline and Disruption
Commercial roof replacement can cause some disruption to your business operations. It’s important to discuss the timeline with your roofing contractor to minimize any potential inconvenience. A professional and experienced contractor should be more than happy work with you and your schedule to complete the project efficiently while causing minimal disruption to your daily activities.
In terms of the expected timeline to replace your commercial roof, try to expect around a month, give or take, for the job to be fully completed. That includes the initial tear-off of the old roof and the full replacement of the new one.
Speak with a professional roofing contractor to figure out what type of roofing system is best for your upcoming roof replacement
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: How often should a commercial roof be replaced?
A: The lifespan of a commercial roof can vary depending on various factors such as the type of roofing material used, maintenance practices, and weather conditions. Generally, commercial roofs should be replaced every 20-30 years. Make sure you inspect the warranty of your new commercial roof to understand the number of years you’ll be protected. For a great, in-depth guide to understanding commercial roof warranties, read our article entitled “A Guide to Commercial Roofing Warranties”
Q: Can I install a new roof over an existing one?
A: In some cases, for example in metal roofs, it may be possible to install a new roof over an existing one. However, this approach is generally not suitable for most situations. In fact, many townships have regulations that prohibit installing new roofing membrane systems overtop of old ones. It’s always best to consult with a professional commercial roofing contractor to assess the feasibility and determine the best course of action for your specific roof. But generally, the answer is no.
Q: What is the average duration for a commercial roof replacement?
A: The duration of a commercial roof replacement project depends on various factors, including the size and complexity of the roof, weather conditions, and the chosen roofing materials. On average, it can take anywhere from a week to over a month to complete a commercial roof replacement.
Q: Is it necessary to replace the entire roof or can repairs be done?
A: Not all roofing issues require a complete roof replacement. It’s very common to only focus on repairs. We have an entire page on our site outlining how we perform commercial roof repairs in Cherry Hill, NJ. In some cases, repairs can be done to address specific problems such as leaks or damaged areas. A professional roof inspection will help determine whether repairs are sufficient or if a full roof replacement is necessary. Remember, an entire roof replacement is usually the final end-step of a roof that’s outlived it’s lifetime use. Repairs are what can take place before that final end-step.
Q: How can I extend the lifespan of my commercial roof?
A: Regular roof maintenance is key to extending the lifespan of your commercial roof. This includes routine inspections, cleaning gutters and drains, addressing minor repairs promptly, and ensuring proper ventilation. It’s also essential to hire a professional commercial roofing company for regular inspections and maintenance. At J Smucker Contracting, we provide regular commercial roof service plans that allow your roof to last for years beyond what it may traditionally last.
Q: Can I claim insurance for commercial roof replacement?
A: Whether or not your insurance covers commercial roof replacement depends on your policy and the specific circumstances. It’s best to review your insurance policy and consult with your insurance provider to understand the coverage and any applicable deductibles. And of course, it’s absolutely crucial to understand your insurance policy and roof warranty before you embark on any major roofing project!
Conclusion
Maintaining a well-functioning roof is vital for the success and safety of your commercial property. When it’s time for a roof replacement, choosing a reliable commercial roofing company and considering factors such as roof inspection, roofing materials, budget, and timeline will ensure a smooth and successful project. Remember to prioritize regular roof maintenance to extend the lifespan of your new roof and protect your investment. If you’re looking for commercial roofing services in the Cherry Hill, NJ area, be sure to give J Smucker Contracting a call and we’d be happy to answer any further questions you may have.