Scott Patnode

Ways That You Can Extend The Life Of Your Commercial Roof

August 13, 2019 Scott Patnode

While roofing work should always be left to professionals, you, as a property owner or manager, can help extend the service life of your commercial roofing system. In this post, roofing company Fields Roof Service, Inc. shares the things that you can do that can benefit your roof’s life span.

LEARN HOW TO RECOGNIZE ROOFING PROBLEMS

You’re expected to perform roof inspections and inform your roofing contractor in case you find problems. Therefore, you should learn to recognize problems commonly found on the type of roofing your property has. For example, if you have a single-ply roofing system installed on your property, then you should be able to recognize blisters and punctures by sight. You should likewise know that calling your roofing contractor for repairs as soon as possible can help prevent further damage.

CONDUCT REGULAR INSPECTIONS

Depending on your commercial roofing type, you may need to conduct roofing inspections as often as every six months, or as infrequently as every three years. In either case, you should not neglect inspection schedules. As we mentioned above, the sooner your roofing contractor addresses a roofing problem, the less chances of further damage there will be. Also, such small problems typically cost less to fix.

KNOW THE ROOFING STRUCTURE INSIDE OUT

There are different commercial roofing systems, each with their own unique set of features, advantages and disadvantages. Roofing contractors will be glad to explain how the roofing structure is or will be built, if you ask. A detailed knowledge of the work structure can help you decide on factors such as whether or not repairs will disrupt the occupants’ operations. Knowing the roof structure can also help you isolate problems. It can also help you with the decision-making process, such as whether or not you should call for repairs, which can help save on time and resources, in the event of a false alarm.
Fields Roof Service, Inc. is your leading provider of commercial and residential roofing services. Give us a call at (253) 200-5981 or fill out our contact form to schedule an appointment.

4 Most Common Single-Ply Commercial Roofing Problems

August 12, 2019 Scott Patnode

Single-ply roofs feature a single layer of roofing material installed on a substrate. Depending on the installation method, this roofing material can be installed using a combination of adhesive, fasteners, and heat welding. In this post, commercial roof contractor Fields Roof Service, Inc. shares the most common roofing problems unique to single-ply roofs.

Seam Failure — As with most roofing materials, single-ply roofing expands and contracts with temperature changes. A typical single-ply roof is installed as a monolithic layer, which means it covers the entire roof as a single piece made of sheets welded together, much like a quilt covering a bed. Roof shrinkage can cause stress on the seams, which may pull apart over time and allow moisture to penetrate this layer. Proper installation techniques, which allow enough slack for shrinkage, can help minimize seam failure.
Blisters — Single-ply roofing that’s adhered to the substrate may develop blisters from moisture trapped under the outer layer. The moisture could come from using wet substrate, or if moisture has somehow found its way from the indoor space. In either case, blisters may noticeably form on the roofing surface. Make a note of how big the blisters are and check back every week. If the blisters are increasing in size, contact your commercial roofer for repairs.
Punctures — Single-ply roofing isn’t designed to handle foot traffic and impact from hard objects, both of which can puncture the roofing surface. Fortunately, punctures or single-ply roofing can be repaired using patches. Proper roof planning is important if your roof is up for replacement: if you’re expecting moderate to high foot traffic on your roof, consider built-up roofing (BUR) or other types of multi-ply roofing systems.
Ponding Water — Inch-deep ponding water can exert up to 5.2 pounds per square foot of pressure. This is why you should never skimp on proper roof design; “flat” roofs are not really flat, but are rather slightly sloped to allow proper drainage. If rainwater on your roof does not dry up after 48 hours, call a roofing professional, as the stagnant water could allow algae growth.

Fields Roof Service, Inc. is the roofing contractor to call when you find a roof leak in your commercial roofing. Give us a call at (253) 200-5981 or fill out our contact form to schedule an appointment.

Questions You Should Ask During a Roof Inspection

August 8, 2019 Scott Patnode

If this is the first time you’re having your roof inspected, there are certain things you should know for later on in case you need to have it repaired or replaced. In this blog roof service company Fields Roof Service, Inc. shares the questions you should ask during a roof inspection.

HOW OLD IS THE ROOF?

Knowing the age of your roof is important, especially if you’re not your home’s first owner. It gives you a better understanding of your roof’s age, which can help you decide whether your roof is due for replacement, or if it’s prematurely failing. A capable roofing contractor can give an estimate of the roof’s age based on normal wear and tear. This means, there is a chance the roofing contractor may recommend a roof inspection if it’s too old.

WHAT ARE THE ROOFING MATERIALS?

There are many varieties of the same roofing type, each with its own set of roof repair and maintenance requirements. For example, fiberglass asphalt shingles can better withstand moisture than “organic” cellulose ones. Knowing the difference can help with decisions such as estimating repair and replacement costs.

IS MY ROOF DAMAGED?

A thorough roof inspection should reveal any part that may require repair. Part of a roofer’s training is knowing how to recognize signs of damage. Water stains are but one of many signs of a damaged roof. Other signs include warped structural components, clumping insulation and the presence of mold and mildew. A hot and humid attic space is an indicator and afterr inspection, you will receive recommendations on what kind of repairs are needed to restore your roof.

HOW SOON BEFORE I NEED A NEW ROOF?

Whether or not you need a new roof depends on many factors. This includes the roof’s age, the amount of wear and tear it has endured, and if it has been receiving regular maintenance and timely repairs. Knowing how much time your roof has will help you plan for its inevitable replacement and perhaps give you time to explore various roofing designs and options.
Fields Roof Service, Inc. is your leading provider of every roof service you’ll ever need, including maintenance inspections, repair and replacement. Give us a call at (253) 200-5981 or fill out our contact form to schedule an appointment.

The Three R’s of Commercial Roofing

July 26, 2019 Scott Patnode

Commercial property owners often make the mistake of resorting to roof replacement when there are, in fact, other options that can help save money without compromising performance. In this blog, Fields Roof Service, Inc. discusses the three R’s of commercial roofing—Repair, Restore and Replace—and why following this order matters.

REPAIR, RESTORE, REPLACE

According to the International Facility Management Association (IFMA), as much as 85% of roof replacements conducted on commercial properties were unnecessary. In most cases, poorly-informed and/or inexperienced contractors resorted to a roof replacement when other, more cost-effective options would have sufficed.
One common assumption about commercial roofing is that it has to be replaced if it has undergone several repairs in the past few years. However, failing multiple repairs, a knowledgeable commercial roofing company will first consider roof restoration. Only when the roof isn’t suitable for restoration should the roofer proceed to the last “R,” replacement.

DIFFERENCES BETWEEN REPAIRS AND RESTORATION

Repairs and restoration are similar, but with one fundamental difference. Whereas roof repairs are conducted as-needed, restoration is done holistically. For example, a commercial roofing contractor may be called on to fix a torn seam, patch a puncture, or replace missing flashing. These are localized fixes completed within an hour or two.

Roof restoration, on the other hand, doesn’t address just one instance. A roofing contractor would first conduct a thorough inspection of the roof and address all repairs in one appointment. This means all hidden and apparent roofing problems will be fixed, restoring the roof as close to new as possible. Roof restoration is typically done on storm or hail-damaged roofs.

WHY FOLLOW THE THREE R’S?

Following the three R’s can help prevent unnecessary roofing expenses. It wouldn’t make sense to have your roof replaced when repairs would have sufficed. Commercial roofs are, after all, more repairable than sloped residential roofs. It also helps minimize disruptions that may be caused by roof installation, which benefits your building’s occupants and helps keep daily operations—and therefore revenues—going.
Fields Roof Service, Inc. is your leading provider of commercial and residential roofing services. Give us a call at (253) 200-5981 or fill out our contact form to schedule an appointment.

How Roof Coatings Reduce a Building’s Environmental Impact

July 18, 2019 Scott Patnode

Roof coatings provide a layer of protection to existing commercial roofs. In this post, roof contractor Fields Roof Service, Inc. takes a closer look at one of the benefits offered by roof coatings: reducing a building’s environmental impact.

HOW ROOF COATINGS WORK

Roof coatings are a liquid with a consistency that’s thicker than paint. After installation, it may take time to cure before it’s ready for use. Roof coatings create a protective layer that helps extend the roofing up to 60 years. Adhered single-ply roofing systems benefit from roof coatings by adding a layer of protection against impact and foot traffic.
There are various types of roof coatings designed for different types of roofing systems. Acrylic, polyurethane and elastomeric roof coatings are some of the most popular types. When applied these coatings create a monolithic layer that prevents instances of a roof leak. Features can also be added, such as different colorways or reflective properties.

ROOF COATINGS AND ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACT

Depending on the type of roof coating, it may help reduce the building’s environmental impact in one or more of the following ways:

Longer Life Span — Commercial roof replacement generates a lot of waste material and contributes to how fast landfills get filled up. A long-lasting roof helps slow down the rate landfills fill up, giving it more time for waste management facilities to clear more space.
Reduction of Urban Heat Island Effect — Urban areas are prone to forming heat islands, or areas that absorb heat from the sun. Concrete and asphalt surfaces tend to radiate absorbed heat slowly, resulting in hot sidewalks and building surfaces with higher indoor cooling requirements. This in turn, results in higher energy consumption; energy that’s based on crude oil. Reflective roof coatings help reduce the urban heat island effect by minimizing the heat absorbed through the roof.
Low Maintenance Requirements — Low maintenance roofing doesn’t just save you money, it also minimizes the need to use chemicals that may harm the immediate environment.

Fields Roof Service, Inc. is the roofer to turn to for all your residential and commercial roofing needs, including roof coatings. Give us a call at (253) 200-5981 or fill out our contact form to schedule an appointment.

Testimonials

Fields Roof Service is the BEST - from the first phone call to the last shingle! I got 3 bids. One was far below Fields, but I didn't feel confident that they would do the job correctly, and the other one was about the same as Fields. But I chose Fields because Jason was so knowledgeable. I felt that the job would be done right. He was organized and took care of every little detail. And the crew who worked on my roof were great, too. The roof looks great, and I love my 2 new skylights in my living room. I highly recommend Fields Roof Service!!!

Valerie T. | Auburn, WA

Steve came out to help us investigate a potential leak. He was not only thorough in checking for the leak (which he verified was not coming from the roof) but was also extremely friendly and gave us suggestions on where the leak could be coming from as well as general roofing tips. This was my first time working with them, and will be highly recommending them to my friends and coworkers. Thanks Steve!"

Solomon C. | Seattle, WA

Estimates provided upfront. Great work and new Sky Light installed as expected. They also offer if leaking again, call them any time.

Tu N. | Tacoma, WA

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