Category: Roofing

Commercial Roofing Services – Installation | Maintenance | Repairs

The MaintenX Roofing Division is ready to handle all your commercial roofing needs from inspections, regular maintenance/cleaning, repairs, or an entirely new roofing system.

With over 40 years of commercial roofing experience, MaintenX is a certified installer for the following roofing systems.

TPO Roofing (Thermoplastic Polyolefin) is one of the fastest-growing roofing options on the market today. Easier to maintain/repair compared to other systems, and the 80 Mil option comes with a 25-year lifecycle.

EPDM Roofing (Ethylene Propylene Diene Monomer) also known as the “rubber roof” feature a lifespan of 12-15 years with 45 Mil material. The 90-mil option can easily last 25 years or longer.

Cold & Torch Applied Bitumen Roofing is one of the most popular systems for low-slope or “flat” roofs. Bitumen is a rolled waterproof membrane embedded with a layer of asphalt. Bitumen can be attached to the substrate using adhesives (cold) or heating with a torch (hot).

PVC Roofing uses a single-ply system featuring a white membrane made from polyvinyl chloride and features improved chemical and fire resistance compared to other systems, making it ideal for restaurants, healthcare, and industrial locations.

Metal Roofing Systems are available in a variety of thicknesses, textures, and colors to add contrast and color to virtually any type of building. In addition, metal roofs require almost no maintenance and can easily last up to 50 years.

MaintenX team members preparing for another commercial roof installation or repair project.
Winter, Spring, Summer, or Fall – The MaintenX Team is just a phone call away.

MaintenX Commercial Roofing Services 

In addition to our extensive roofing system certifications, MaintenX can also handle the installation, maintenance, cleaning, and repairs needed to keep the rain and weather out of your building or office. 

 New Commercial Roof Construction 

The MaintenX team can handle your new roof construction from the sheathing to the finish roofing system quickly and efficiently.  

Commercial Roof Replacement 

Includes stripping off the original roofing system, followed by an underlayment inspection and repairs before installing the new membrane and roofing system.

Roof Overlay 

Depending on local code requirements, the existing roof system is overlaid with the new roofing system, without needing to strip the existing system down to the original substrate. 

Roof Leaks 

The water stain that appears on your ceiling can be caused by a roof leak several feet away, since water will travel along any pipes or structural elements hidden above the ceiling. Our leak specialists will find and properly repair any leaks per the manufacturer’s guidelines. 

Vertical Waterproofing 

To minimize pooling and condensation, or to wick moisture away from walls, columns, or other structural elements, MaintenX recommends and installs vertical waterproofing solutions to keep your office dry.  

Commercial Roof Restoration 

This process involves cleaning the existing roof to remove dirt, debris, mold, and lichen growth before applying a primer and sealer. Once dry, up to two coats of liquid roofing membrane is applied which extends your commercial roof lifespan by 10-15 years. 

Preventative Maintenance for Roofing Systems 

As the name implies, these are the steps taken to keep your roofing system working properly during inclement weather. Most roofing systems require regular inspection of the flashing and caulking, as well as regular cleaning of the gutters, scuppers, and drainpipes to remove obstructions and debris. 

Hurricane/Storm Preparedness 

A pre-roof inspection checks all drains, gutters, and downspouts to be sure they are free and clear of debris. Check all rooftop equipment to sure all doors are secure. Clean up the roof of any flying debris. 

Disaster/Emergency Response 

Have a post-storm inspection set up before the storm arrives. The team will check for any storm-related damage and storm clean-up.

Custom Metal Roof Fabrication 

With its superior longevity and low maintenance needs, it’s hard to beat a metal roof system. But choosing the right one can seem daunting, with all the different styles, materials, and coatings available. Our metal roof experts can help you find the best metal roof option for your commercial project and budget. 

Aerial/Drone Photography and Inspections 

A picture is worth a thousand words, and drones make it easy to inspect large areas quickly while keeping our employees safe. We also use drones to compile before and after photos which can be helpful when dealing with a lender or insurance company.    

Energy Efficiency Analysis/Audit 

Our commercial roofing experts can check the performance of your existing roofing system. The audit report includes a list of items requiring attention such as caulking and flashing maintenance at roof penetrations, all seals and gaskets, as well as recommendations to reduce future energy usage. 

Commercial Roofing System Certifications 

Include manufacturers. 

GAF, Elevate ( Former Firestone ), Carlisle, Versico, Polyglass, Derbigum, PM, Sentinel, Duralast, Sarnafil, Uniflex. 

Commercial Roofing Associations 

MaintenX is a proud member of the National Roofing Contractors Association and the Florida Roofing and Sheet Metal Contractors Association. 

Using Drone Photography for Your Business

At MaintenX, we specialize in all things roofing. In recent years, this has expanded to aerial photography and drone photography for our commercial clients. We began using this as a means for inspecting roofing and providing in-depth technical diagnoses for large-scale buildings. However, our services have expanded to include drone and aerial photography for all kinds of commercial purposes.

Drone photography may seem like a luxury to most small businesses, but there are many applications in which it can be useful to your business or commercial real estate investment. Below are just a few of the ways our clients utilize drone photography to help their businesses prosper:

Real Estate Listings

If you’re preparing to sell a commercial property, aerial photography is a must. While a traditional photographer can help you capture interior details, an aerial photography service allows you to provide a complete picture of the property. Showcase the breathtaking views of your property or the expansiveness of the lot for sale by capturing more than what a camera on the ground can capture.

Inspections

Inspections were among the first services we provided for clients to help them catch roofing and other maintenance issues that they don’t typically inspect. Drone footage makes the facility inspection process much faster and keeps maintenance techs safely on the ground until an issue is detected.

Data Collection and Orthomosaics

Drone footage can be used for collecting data or surveying land for development, industrial, or tech applications. We use drone footage for orthomosaics (similar to Google Earth imaging) as well as land surveying or data collection from industrial sites. This can help you improve efficiency and more accurately plan for new construction on undeveloped land.

Construction Site Monitoring

Managing a large construction site can be incredibly difficult, especially if multiple buildings are in the plans. Aerial photography allows you to monitor progress and provide visual representations of progress to investors and stakeholders.

If you are interested in what MaintenX has to offer, contact your local team to learn about drone photography services in your area!

How We Waterproof Flat Roofing

Flat roofing is very common for commercial applications. It is aesthetically pleasing, versatile, and allows for rooftop installations such as HVAC units and solar paneling. While flat roofing is popular for its design benefits, it can also be problematic. Flat roofing has a very slight slope which makes it easy for rainwater and debris to collect. If the roofing begins to sag, pools of water can collect and cause mold, mildew, and other water damage to your building. It can even seep into the interior of the building if left unattended.

Waterproofing is therefore essential for commercial flat roofing to prevent expensive repairs and potential health hazards within your building. At MaintenX, we use a variety of techniques to waterproof flat roofing and prevent sagging and other issues associated with flat roofs.

Single-ply waterproof membrane

Single-ply membranes are most common for commercial applications, as they are more affordable for large buildings which require a lot of coverage. Plastic fasteners or polyurethane adhesive is used to attach the membrane to the roof. This ensures that the membrane can withstand intense outdoor exposure without coming off. While this method is most common, it can come off more easily than membranes that are installed under the roofing or applied using a liquid method.

Reinforced Bitumen Membrane Waterproofing (RBM)

Bitumen membranes are more common for smaller commercial buildings and those converted from residential buildings, as it is a more lengthy installation process. This type of waterproofing involves layering bitumen across the roof and then installing a polyester coating to ensure water cannot penetrate beneath the roof.

Liquid Waterproofing

Liquid waterproofing is a less common but highly effective form of waterproofing used for flat roofing. Unlike membrane waterproofing, a liquid coating is applied like paint to the roof to completely seal it. While not as common, this type of waterproofing can last for 30 to 40 years with proper maintenance.

If you are looking to waterproof new construction or an existing commercial building, talk to your local MaintenX team today for more information!

Is Your Roof Energy-Efficient?

When business owners talk about improving energy efficiency, roofing is rarely one of the topics that come up. Your roof doesn’t use any energy to function, and unless you install solar panels, it plays no part in creating energy for your building. However, your roof plays a critical role in how energy-efficient your building is as a whole.

Your roof insulates the interior of the building and (hopefully) prevents heat absorption from outside. An energy-efficient roof helps keep climate-controlled air consistent, which helps your HVAC system run more efficiently. Roofing also plays a part in your building’s ventilation system which also consumes a great amount of energy for your building.

Hallmarks of an Energy-Efficient Roof

An energy-efficient roof will do several things to benefit your building. It will reduce heat absorption from outside, prevent water damage due to rain, and maintain proper ventilation for your facility. If your roof has these features, it is likely energy-efficient for your building:

  • The roof is properly insulated – Roofing insulation, including the flashing and interior insulation, helps to prevent heat absorption or loss during the summer and winter months. This helps your HVAC units run more efficiently and reduce the energy needed for climate control.
  • It has a light-colored and heat-resistant exterior – The material used for your roof plays a big part in whether or not it is energy-efficient. A roof that is dark in color or made with a heat-absorbing material will heat your building much more quickly in the summertime. Choose light-colored roofing that is insulated and sturdy enough to block heat absorption in the interior of your building.
  • It is waterproof – A waterproof roof is not only important to prevent water damage, but can also insulate your roof for improved energy efficiency. Waterproof membranes are relatively easy to install and are considered especially important for commercial roofing applications.

If your roof does not have these features, you may be spending more on energy for your building than you should be. Energy efficiency is not only important as a green initiative – it can cost you thousands of dollars a year to not make your building as energy-efficient as possible.

MaintenX provides energy-efficiency audits for roofing, as well as preventative care and installation services to help you design a more efficient building. To learn more about our roofing audits and preventative maintenance services, contact your local MaintenX team today!

Hiring a Handyman vs. a Contractor For Minor Repairs

Small businesses are always looking for ways to cut costs on operations. A more efficient piece of equipment, a simpler closing process, or a cheaper repair can all help toward keeping a burgeoning business afloat. However, there are some places where cost-cutting simply isn’t the best solution.

Hiring a handyman may be tempting if your facility needs a minor repair and they’re cheaper than calling in a specialist. A friend or your home handyman may be able to cut you a deal, but will that deal cost you in the long run when the repair doesn’t last?

There are some times when cheap maintenance service is the right decision and other times when it can lead to ongoing problems at your facility. Here’s how to tell which situation you’re in:

Does the service technically require licensing?

Some services – such as roofing repair, electrical maintenance, and plumbing renovation – require licensing to be legally provided by a company. If your service typically requires some sort of license to perform, you need to hire a contractor. This is especially important for commercial facilities as not hiring the right person may lead to troubles with your own permits and licensing.

Does it require special equipment?

Contractors invest in high-quality equipment to provide service that a handyman may not have on their truck. Even if the handyman is able to complete the repair, they may put themselves at risk or not be able to complete the service properly without this needed equipment.

Does the handyman list this service on their website or brochure?

Typically, a handyman will have a list of provided services that you can select from. If the service you’re looking for is not explicitly listed, you should look for a contractor to make sure the job is done right.

Was previous work done by a licensed contractor?

If you’re having trouble with your HVAC system and a previous contractor has already done work on the unit before, you should call a licensed contractor to finish the work, especially if you think something was done wrong. A handyman may not be able to accurately diagnose problems or work on a piece of equipment that has had previous faulty service. Prevent the problem from getting worse by hiring the right help.

MaintenX helps small businesses find affordable and quality work for HVAC, plumbing, electrical, and roofing repair across the U.S. If you need work done by a specialist, contact us to connect with the best subcontractor network in the U.S.

Why Choose Polymer Roofing for Historic Buildings?

Historic buildings are some of the trickiest sites for us to work on as commercial contractors. While we want to preserve the historic integrity of these buildings and keep them as true to their original form as possible, we also want the best in technology for our customers. Finding the right balance of modern technology with historic preservation efforts can be tricky, but is well worth the effort. 

Historic roofing is one sector in commercial construction that has made great strides in this area. Historical preservationists often want to keep the natural slate or wood shake roofing on historic buildings for as long as they can, but this can pose safety hazards for the building and leave it less energy-efficient for modern appliances. The lack of proper insulation can make these roof types struggle to cope with modern heating and cooling needs, and can even become a greater fire risk. But, there is an alternative on the rise that is becoming more and more popular with historical preservationists. 

Polymer roofing is a new option for historic buildings that preserves the structural integrity of the building itself while maintaining the same look of different periods throughout American architecture. Polymer roofing can be designed to look like natural slate or wood shakes, but provides a much more durable installation with modern flashing that will ensure the roof is well-insulated, safe, and built to last as long as other modern roofing options. Other benefits of polymer roofing include: 

  • Decreased fire and natural disaster hazards as compared to original historic roofing
  • Increased roofing lifespan
  • Comparable aesthetic appeal to wood shake or slate roofing
  • Reduced risk of water damage due to improper insulation
  • Increased energy-efficiency
  • Value-add option for commercial property

Historical sites across the country are using polymer roofing to create the look and feel that old stone and wood shake roofing had, but with every bit of durability, that modern roofing provides. If you’re interested in restoring a historic commercial building with this modern roofing tech, contact MaintenX today! We offer expert roofing repair and restoration services from coast to coast. 

 

What is a Cool Roof System?

As businesses become more and more environmentally conscious, energy efficiency has become one of the biggest selling points in commercial real estate. Sustainability tech is the hottest trend for property owners and managers and can make a bigger difference to your clients than aesthetic choices or rent prices. If you’re interested in creating a more eco-friendly commercial building, a cool roofing system can help your facility stand apart from the rest. 

Most property owners don’t think about their roof as an opportunity to reduce energy costs, other than solar paneling. However, solar panels are still out of the price range for many and have a slow payback as opposed to other energy-efficient upgrades. A cool roofing system, however, can reduce your interior energy costs which makes a bigger impact on your tenants.

What is a Cool Roofing System?

Cool roofing systems are coated with a light-colored acrylic coating that helps reflect light away from the building. Like wearing a white shirt on a hot day, this helps your building to stay cool on hot days as opposed to black or dark-colored shingles which absorb the heat. Cool roofing systems are typically applied with a spray-on coating and can be easily added to your existing roof. 

Cool roofing systems offer a variety of benefits other than energy efficiency for your building, including: 

  • Cost-effective coating: A cool roof coating can lower energy costs, extend the service life of your roof, and is highly cost-effective to install. 
  • Durability: Cool roof coatings will often last several years or even decades if properly cared for and retouched. 
  • Compatibility: Most roofing systems can be renovated with an acrylic coating to become cool roofing systems, making them one of the easiest energy-efficient upgrades you can make to your facility. 

If you want your building to stand out as an energy-efficient and sustainable facility, ask your MaintenX team about cool roofing system upgrades. We can help you make your building a forward-thinking facility that is lower cost and easier to maintain than other buildings in your area. 

To learn more, contact your local MaintenX contractor today!

 

Tips for Better Roof Maintenance Management

Roofing is one of your building’s biggest assets and one that is under the most duress from the outside elements. In Tampa, where MaintenX is headquartered, we understand the importance of quality roofing due to our turbulent hurricane season. Clients who take care of their roofing systems don’t have to worry about water damage and structural issues during the summer months, because their roofing is prepared for the worst. 

Regular maintenance can save you thousands of dollars by preventing damage and emergency repairs. By making a few simple changes to your roofing maintenance plan, you can become a more proactive facility manager and help your maintenance team improve the quality of service along the way. 

Proactive vs. Reactive Roofing Maintenance

Proactive roofing maintenance is the less popular approach because it seems more expensive. Regular roof inspections and cleanings will increase your annual spending slightly, but it will save you from shelling out for major roofing repairs and renovations. Preventative maintenance can also add 10 to 15 years of service life for your roof, making the yearly inspection and cleaning well worth the effort. 

Do you know what your roof needs?

Do you know what service your particular type of roofing needs, or how to identify early signs of problems? If not, you should have a talk with your maintenance team to better understand your roofing system’s needs and maintenance schedule that will best suit the material type. Some roofing materials like concrete need less maintenance, while stylish roofing options like wood shakes will need a strict maintenance routine to preserve their look and utility. 

What about maintenance goals? Do you know how to tell when your roof maintenance plan is working? If your roof is well cared for, you can expect lower energy costs because the interior will be better insulated. You’ll also have no visible signs of damage, mildew, or algae growth if your roofing is regularly inspected and cleaned. 

Roofing maintenance is easy with the MaintenX team by your side. We can help you curate a preventative maintenance plan that will ensure your roof reaches its maximum service life and can withstand the elements no matter where you’re located. To learn more about roofing repair, maintenance, and installations, contact your local MaintenX team today. 

Ask A Roofer: Five Most Frequently Asked Questions

MaintenX specializes in roofing repairs, installations, and preventative service throughout Florida and the U.S. We believe this is one of our most important services, as often commercial roofing maintenance is neglected in favor of other maintenance services. Roofing maintenance, however, protects your entire building from water damage, structural problems, and other maintenance disasters you’d much rather avoid. 

Below are our most received roofing questions from clients, and how you can better service your facility with roofing maintenance: 

Are solar panels worth the expense?

More and more businesses in Florida are utilizing solar panels on their roofing to cover part of their energy cost. Commercial roofing is often made flat, which is ideal for solar panels, but the initial cost of investment can drive some property owners away from the installation. However, over time the solar panels can reduce your energy bill by more than half, paying for themselves over several years. They are also a great value-add to the property itself when it comes time to sell, as new buyers are more concerned with their real estate’s environmental impact than ever before. 

How often should I schedule roof inspections?

Commercial roofing is typically built to withstand harsher conditions than residential roofing, so it only needs to be inspected every two to five years to prevent damage. Commercial concrete roofing may need fewer inspections as it will need very little repair throughout the years. 

What’s the best way to replace my roofing?

When replacing a commercial roof, you have two options. You can tear off the existing roof, or you can build on top of it (assuming the old roof is in good condition). The ideal option of the two depends on the condition of your existing roof, its texture, and what you want to put down to replace it. 

How long does commercial roofing last?

Most commercial roofing will last a minimum of 20 years, with more durable materials like metal and concrete lasting 40-50 or more with good care. More aesthetically pleasing options like TPO and shingles do not have as long of a lifespan but are ideal for smaller businesses with low roofing. 

What is the biggest concern for roofing maintenance? 

Most people assume that weather is the biggest threat to roofing. While this is true for Florida businesses during a hurricane, the most consistent predictor of roofing failure and leaks is a lack of maintenance. A storm may be able to damage your roof, but neglect will ensure your roof has a much lower service life. Be sure to care for your roofing system so it can withstand years of wear and tear. 

For more information about roofing maintenance and installations, visit our Resource Center or contact your local MaintenX team today!

Three Things Your Roofer Wants You To Stop Doing at Your Business

Roofing repair is one of the most important services we offer at MaintenX. Oftentimes, roofing problems are what get businesses in trouble when left untreated, as they can lead to major water damage, pest infestations, and worse. Our best tool is education when it comes to roofing service, as an informed customer can make a better decision on when and what they need for their roofing system. 

 

While we do our best to arm our clients with knowledge on their roofing system, we often see them make these same mistakes over and over. If you want to avoid costly roofing repairs and maintenance later down the line, avoid making these common roofing errors: 

 

Getting on the roof without safety equipment. 

Unless your commercial building is made for foot traffic on the roof, never climb up there without safety equipment. This puts you at severe risk, and should never be necessary without a licensed roofer present. Even if it is for something as simple as hanging company Christmas lights, you should always use safety equipment when getting on your building’s roof. 

 

Ignoring minor roof leaks. 

Modern roofing is made to withstand leaks. It is built in layers including waterproof membranes, flashing, and durable exterior roof material, all of which are designed to minimize water damage. If you notice a leak coming from your roof, that means something has gone seriously wrong. Contact your MaintenX team immediately to address the issue and avoid further roof damage. 

 

Neglecting to clean your roof and gutters. 

One of the worst parts of a roofer’s job is having to clean severely neglected roofing and gutter systems on a commercial building. It may be a pain to schedule cleanings every six months to a year, but it is much better for your roofing and will help you avoid costly repairs later on. Talk to your MaintenX roofer about a cleaning schedule to ensure your roof looks great and stays strong for years to come. 

 

MaintenX offers professional roofing repair, preventative care, and installations for commercial facilities. If you are looking to clean or repair your roofing, give us a call today to learn what MaintenX can do for you!