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Here is our list of the Top 7 Questions every client should ask their commercial, industrial, and institutional roofing contractor:

1. Which roofing system is best for our climate and building needs?

It is estimated that defective design & engineering is responsible for nearly 50% of all roofing failures. Critical consideration must be given to drainage, windage, insulation, fire resistance, thermal expansion, tensile strength, puncture resistance, and watertight performance. Certain roofing systems might not work for your building type or location.

2. Is tearing off the entire roof necessary?

One of the top considerations in re-roofing projects is minimizing the environmental impact by reducing or eliminating waste. Ask about roofing systems that can be installed over your current roof.

3. Does the roof system moderate temperatures in summer and winter?

Green and vegetative roofing systems as well as solar panels can help control inside temperatures and even make the roof last longer. The end result would be reduced energy costs and may even improve employee health, well-being, and morale.

4. How long is the warranty? Do you know how long your warranty is?

Ask! Find out if it covers the entire roof system, including installation defects. Be sure to ask if there are any exclusions and fees associated with the warranty for issues like incidental damages and ponding water.

5. Is the roofing system Energy Star Compliant?

At the government’s Energy Star Website, you will find details regarding the minimum standards for the minimum reflectance during specific periods in the roofing system’s life. 65% initial mimimum reflectance and 50% reflectance after 3-years of exposure to the elements are minimum requirements. Another resource for finding out ratings for solar reflectance is the website for the Cool Roof Rating Council. Do you research and you’ll know if your selected roofing system is an energy-efficient one.

6. Is my roofing system eligible for Federal tax deductions?

It may if it meets the standard ASHRAE 90.1. The standard 90.1 was established by the American Society of Heating, Refrigeration, and Air Conditioning Engineers – the minimum requirements for energy efficient buildings. In 1994, the federal government adopted this standard. Government facilities require a minimum solar reflectance and 75% solar emittance respectively.

7. What kind of recycling program does the manufacturer of the roofing materials offer?

Many manufacturers have recycling programs in place which gather the roofing materials and recycle them once their useful life has ended. The number of different types of products that much of this waste can be turned into continues to amaze us each day. Some examples include, but are not limited to: flooring, roadways, park benches, and yes – turned back into new roofing materials.