Knowing what to expect during a roofing project minimizes glitches and creates a constructive working atmosphere. At North American Roofing, where our clients are always our top priority, we avoid project pitfalls through preplanning, professionalism and communication. Common roof project pitfalls can be avoided by selecting a roofing company that respects your business, your staff and your customers.
Project Schedule
A qualified roofing company can give you a pretty good idea of how long the project will last. Some delays, usually due to weather, are impossible to control. Postponements related to scheduling and running into unforeseen structural problems, however, can be minimized by having a roofing specialist carefully assess the roof condition before starting the project. Choosing a professional company with a good reputation goes a long way toward keeping a roofing project on schedule.
Noise
The installation of some types of roofing, such as a mechanically fastened system, is noisier than others. Removing old roofing is also generally noisy. If the roof condition allows, installing a roof coating might be an option in cases where noise is highly undesirable, but only a qualified roofing professional can make that determination. Scheduling tear-off to coincide with times when noise will be less bothersome can eliminate some of the problem.
Smell
Installing some types of roofing systems produces objectionable odors than can be minimized by temporarily sealing rooftop air-intake systems. Sometimes, just being aware of the wind direction and positioning an asphalt kettle downwind can alleviate disagreeable odors.
Debris
As with any construction project, a measure of debris during the project is to be expected but the roofing company should leave the premises in the same condition they found them. To minimize mess, the roofing company should remain out of the facility as much as possible and use portable sanitary facilities. When foot traffic inside is unavoidable, ask that paths be covered with protective materials to avoid flooring damage.
After-Project Problems
The best way to protect against after-project leaks, blistering, cracking or splitting is to choose a professional roofing company with a spotless reputation to begin with. On rare occasion, the roofing materials might be faulty, but usually, the problem lies in improper installation, poor planning and inadequate roof preparation. Not all leaks, in fact not even most leaks, are due to faulty installation, but rather are likely to be from water entering the building somewhere else, such as through cracks in masonry or around improperly flashed upper windows. If you think the problem is with the roof, schedule an inspection with an independent third-party roofing specialist.
Inexperienced Roofers versus Professional Roofers
The vast majority of roofing project pitfalls can be minimized or avoided completely just by choosing a professional roofing company. A facility roof is a major investment, both financially, and in the protection and integrity of the building. With so much riding on the decision, it behooves facility owners and managers to carefully analyze competitive bids and check references. The lowest bid isn’t always the best deal.
At North American Roofing, we understand your apprehensions and we take the time to explain every detail of the roofing process. We follow a minimally invasive approach so usually you can continue your business operations while we work on the roof. We didn’t earn the reputation as the most trusted roofing company in the nation by ignoring our customer’s concerns.