Commercial Roofing Services | Premiere Roofing & Gutters

commercial roof maintenance service north carolina

When Should A Commercial Roof Be Replaced?

May 11, 2022/in Commercial Roofing Services/by Garron Lytton

The roof of your commercial building probably needs to be replaced if you notice any of the following problems:

Water damage to the interior ceiling or attic
Bumps or blisters on the rooftop
Gaps between overlapping seams
Cracked, curling, or missing shingles (in the case of a shingle roof)
Evidence of weather-related damage

At Premiere Roofing & Gutters, we specialize in providing commercial roof inspection, replacement, and repair to the people of Charlotte, Hickory, and the surrounding areas. Get in touch with our office today if you need our help.

A closer look at those five warning signs

You should suspect trouble with your roof if you notice any of these issues:

Water damage to the attic or ceiling – which can take the form of stains, puddles, mold growth, or a strong mildew odor. You may also see sunlight coming through the roof itself.
Blisters or bumps in the roofing membrane – this problem is usually caused by gases that have built up between the roof’s exterior layer and the sub-roofing.
Loose seams – commercial roofing membranes like TPO or EPDM are laid out in sections, with overlapping seams along the edges. If those seams are coming apart, then your roof has probably suffered serious damage already.
Shingle problems – commercial shingles are just as vulnerable to damage as their residential counterparts. You’ll know you have a problem if the shingling is cracked, curled, or has lost its grain.
Evidence of storm or wind damage – like corroded fasteners, dented panels, or exposed sub-roofing.

Why ignoring these warning signs is not an option

The consequences of ignoring commercial roof damage are too great to risk. Here are just some of the problems you may face unless you take immediate action:

Electrical fires: due to rain or melted snow coming in contact with the building’s wiring.
Illnesses or allergy symptoms: caused by germs or allergens spread by contaminated rainwater.
Partial or total roof collapse: not only can this destroy your building, it can also pose a serious hazard to occupants of the building.

How Premiere Roofing & Gutters can help

The best way to deal with these issues is to contact us today for a complete commercial roof inspection. Here’s how we can help:

By diagnosing the cause of the problem: we’ll tell you exactly what’s going on with your building. We’ll also prepare a commercial roof estimate for your review.
By protecting your roof from further damage: we’ll install a commercial-grade membrane over the damaged sections. This will provide temporary relief while we carry out more extensive measures.
By completing the necessary work: this can range from minor repairs to complete commercial roof installation, depending on the extent of the damage.

Our technicians are experts when it comes to all types of roofing materials, including TPO, EPDM, metal panels, synthetic roofing shakes, and tar-based built-up roofs (BURs). You can trust us to do the job right.

Commercial roofing replacement you can trust

For commercial roof replacement in North Carolina that you can depend on to be done right and done right the first time, choose Premier Roofing & Gutters. We have been in continuous operation for more than 20 years. Our rates are fair and our work is guaranteed. Get in touch with us today if you need help with your commercial roof.

How Often Do Flat Commercial Roofs Need to Be Replaced?

May 9, 2022/in Commercial Roofing Services/by Garron Lytton

On average, a flat commercial roof won’t last quite as long as a sloped roof because it is more susceptible to the elements. Flat roofs do not readily slough off water, ice, and snow. However, they are still an excellent choice for commercial buildings for several reasons. For instance, a flat roof is the only practical choice for large commercial buildings. That said, these property owners will need to plan on scheduling an inspection for a flat roof replacement more frequently than other types of roofs.

The average lifespan of a flat commercial roof

Different types of flat roofs have varying expected lifespans, depending on several factors. These might include whether it’s been treated with a roof coating (which makes it last longer) and whether small areas of damage have been promptly repaired. On average, flat roofs have the following expected lifespans.

Flat EPDM Roof – 20 to 30 years
Flat TPO Roof – 15 to 20 years
Flat Metal Roof – About 50 years
Built-Up Roof (BUR) – 20 to 30 years

Extensive rips and tears along the seams

Often, the damage due to wear and tear shows up first along the seams of the roofing material. It is the point at which two pieces of material are joined together. In this case, it’s possible to repair minor damage to a flat roof seam. However, if the damage isn’t detected and repaired promptly, a flat roof replacement will likely be necessary.

Persistent and substantial water accumulation

A flat roof appears flat to the untrained eye. However, even a flat roof will have a very slight slope to help prevent standing water from accumulating. Over time, however, the roof deck can become warped. As a result, some areas may sink in slightly, allowing pools of water to accumulate. When water is allowed to accumulate on a flat roof, more damage will quickly follow. At that point, it’s time to schedule an inspection and an estimate for a commercial flat roof replacement.

Blistering and cracking

Blistering and cracking are unique to flat roofs from years of exposure to sunlight and high temperatures. If the roof membrane appears to be cracking or developing blisters or bubbles, it’s time to call the experts.

Schedule an inspection and flat roof replacement in NC today

When commercial building owners notice the warning signs of roof failure, they turn to the local leaders in commercial flat roof replacement: Premiere Roofing & Gutters.

Our experienced crew provides commercial roof replacement in North Carolina, including both flat and sloped roofs. We specialize in EPDM, TPO, BUR, and metal roofs. We also offer flat roof coatings to increase the longevity. Based in Hickory, we proudly serve commercial building owners from Blowing Rock to Wilmington to Boone and beyond. Call today or fill out our form below to schedule your complimentary commercial roof inspection and commercial roof estimate.

7 Best Roofing Materials for a Flat Roof

February 21, 2022/in Commercial Roofing Services/by Garron Lytton

The best flat roof systems may include built-up roofs, coatings, EPDM, metal, PVC, roll roofing, or TPO. However, there is no single right answer to– which flat roof materials work best for a commercial structure. Instead, it depends on a variety of individual factors, such as: what type of look you want, what the rooms below are used for, how long you need the roof to last, and how much you’re willing to invest in your commercial property.

What is the Best Flat Roof Material?

Common commercial flat roof types include the following:

Built-up

Built-up roofs (BURs) layer up asphalt or hot tar topped with rocks or gravel. A strong shield with tight seals– a built-up five-layer roof can last 25 years and is less prone to damage from water, hail storms, or fire.

Pros: Built-up roofs are made to withstand the elements and protect your structure for years to come.

Cons: It is quite heavy, so you’ll need an underlying structure that can handle the pressure. BURs are also more labor-intensive to install and costlier to repair than other types of flat roofs.

Coatings

Several coatings may be applied to commercial flat roofs, including acrylic, asphalt emulsions, chemical solvents, polyurethane, or silicone—but generally speaking, these coatings are quick to install and affordable. Yet, they must also be replaced more often.

Pros: Coatings can be highly reflective, UV resistant, clean, and easy to apply.

Cons: Many coatings do not fare well with pooling water. Some carry a strong odor when first applied and begin losing their protective nature after two to four years.

EPDM

EPDM (ethylene propylene diene terpolymer) is a common commercial application made from black synthetic rubber. Used in other applications as a bulletproof material, its extreme strength lasts 30 to 50 years.

Pros: Unlike white membranes, black EPDM rooftops won’t show dirt and can withstand temperature extremes. This type of installation is easy to repair and more affordable than many types of flat roofing systems.

Cons: EPDM can absorb heat, so it’s most suitable for smaller storage buildings than working spaces. Risks of seam breakage and roll shrinkage increase with larger industrial EPDM installs, so TPO roofing may be preferred in these cases. It also looks akin to weather stripping on a car door, so not the most beautiful roof on the market.

TPO

TPO—short for thermoplastic polyolefin—is a single-ply white membrane. While it’s not as durable as EPDM, you can get 25 years from a TPO roof as long as it’s installed properly.

Pros: Reflective in nature, TPO is a new and popular option for flat roofs, as it keeps the rooms below cooler. The laminated surface prevents algae or fungal buildup, so you won’t have to power-wash, making it relatively low maintenance. The material is also lightweight and well-suited to older structures.

Cons: If you can see the roof from another window, you may notice white gets dirtier quicker. Slightly more expensive than tar and gravel roofing, it also is not as durable in extreme weather conditions. TPO repairs require a heat welder and professional expertise. As it’s a relatively new material, the performance can vary from manufacturer to manufacturer.

Metal

Standing seam metal flat roof systems mechanically lock sheets of metal together, allowing for expansion and contraction– while providing an extremely durable protective layer to your commercial property. With proper insulation, a metal roof system can last 30-50 years.

Pros: Metal roofs are among the most aesthetically pleasing, offering a number of color options.

Cons: Metal is also one of the most expensive materials, though the longevity could make it a worthwhile investment if you plan to hang onto your commercial real estate long-term.

PVC

Polyvinyl chloride (PVC) roofing is a single-ply white material often used over offices, as its reflective color keeps the room below cool. Like TPO, a properly installed PVC roof should last 20-30 years.

Pros: A PVC flat roof installation is very similar to a TPO install, except that PVC is a more flexible material that has been around longer. It is similarly reflective to reduce cooling costs and is resistant to algae or bacterial growth from temporary ponding. White is most common, but darker shades exist.

Cons: PVC is slightly more expensive per square foot than TPO, though labor costs are the same. Removing the old roofing requires more labor and care to prevent puncture-related leaks. In addition, the manufacture of this roofing type releases toxic dioxin into the air, so it’s not the most eco-friendly option if your business engages in values-based investments.

Roll Roofing

Developed in the 1960s, roll roofing—otherwise known as modified bitumen or “mod bit”—involves an asphalt-based flat roof material with special polymers added for performance and pliability. The smooth or granular rolls can be hot or cold-applied or self-adhered. An expert-installed roll can last up to 20 years.

Pros: Commercial roll roofing is budget-friendly, energy-efficient, and durable for its lifespan. Most commercial businesses choose mod bit for the price point alone, but the color variations are as varied as composite shingle roofs.

Cons: The relatively short lifespan is the main drawback, with cracking and blistering possible after the first 10-15 years. Walking on the roof or a fallen branch can be enough to crack modified bitumen roofs. Leaks in the substrate can also be difficult to detect.

Looking for the Best Flat Roof Material for Your Business? Ask a Pro!

Contact Premiere Roofing to learn more about commercial flat roof installation in Hickory, Blowing Rock, or Charlotte, North Carolina. No matter which type of commercial flat roofing you prefer, you can count on the experienced professionals at Premiere Roofing to get it done and make it last.

Do Roof Coatings Reduce Heat?

February 14, 2022/in Commercial Roofing Services/by Garron Lytton

Yes, cool roof coatings can reduce heat dramatically, resulting in energy efficiency and significant cost savings. Given the intense heat of Catawba County summers, business owners would do well to invest in commercial roof coatings to reduce monthly cooling costs.

At Premiere Roofing & Gutters, we install Silicone Roof Coatings that reflect damaging UV rays. These cool roof coatings reduce radiant heat that increases the temperature and accelerates the aging process of your roof.

What are cool roof coatings?

Silicone roof coatings are brushed onto roof surfaces to protect against solar radiation and increase UV reflectivity. A cool roof coating is typically elastomeric. This means it is formulated to be highly elastic, so the coating can stretch and flex during temperature fluctuations.

In addition to protecting your roof from the elements and the damaging effects of UV rays, roof coatings:

Insulate the roof structure
Dispel solar energy
Decrease heat transfer to the building interior
Lower indoor temperatures up to 35%
Extend the lifespan of your roof structure
Are energy-efficient – save on cooling and heating costs
Are environmentally sound since they reduce fossil fuel reliance and greenhouse gas emissions

Cost-effective commercial flat roof coatings

According to the US Department of Energy, property owners can reduce cooling costs by up to 70 percent when a reflective elastomeric roof coating is installed. One of the biggest advantages of our commercial flat roof coatings— all manufactured by Conklin– is their long-lasting protection and ease of application.

Most cool roof coatings dry to a bright white finish and are suitable for commercial roofs made of FRS, metal, and polyurethane. The installation process is quick, and commercial property owners will reap the cooling benefits during North Carolina’s scorching summers.

Conventional, dark roof structures allow radiant heat from the rooftop to permeate your insulation. As the weather heats up, your HVAC works harder to maintain a comfortable temperature.
Our cool roof coatings feature the latest roofing technology and are low in volatile organic compounds. Run your air conditioning less and save hundreds if not thousands of dollars every year! Our coating products maintain UV reflective properties for years and provide peace of mind that your roof is protected against early degradation.

Easy installation

Your roof is cleaned of grease, dirt, mildew, and other debris before the coating is applied. In most cases, a single or double coating is all that’s necessary to provide lasting protection from the sun’s hot rays and inclement weather. The entire process is completed in one working day and promises to increase solar reflectivity and the lifespan of your roof.

Commercial roof coatings in North Carolina

When it comes to commercial roofing in North Carolina, put your trust in a company that stands behind its products. The cool roof coatings offered by Premiere Roofing & Gutters reduce heat accumulation, enhance building comfort, and lower cooling costs.

Get in touch with us today to learn more about our products and services. Our team proudly serves commercial clients in Hickory, Blowing Rock, Boone, Wilkesboro, Charlotte, and Wilmington, NC.

Seven Things You May Not Know About Today’s Metal Roofs

January 13, 2021/in Commercial Roofing Services, Metal Roofing Services/by Garron Lytton

They say that those who forget the past are doomed to repeat it, and that’s certainly true. All of us should avoid the mistakes of yesteryear.

At the same time, however, we should never let the limitations of the past keep us from enjoying the benefits of the present. Here’s how this applies to contemporary metal roofing:

Modern metallic roofs are remarkably rust-resistant: Forget about the dingy metal roofing you may have seen on antique barns or older houses. Today’s versions are crafted from a high-tech mix of steel, aluminum, and zinc, then protected with a baked-on top coat for the ultimate in beauty and durability.
Modern metallic roofs can stand up to Mother Nature’s worst: Unlike fragile asphalt shingles, our metal roofing materials shrug off the effects of wind, rain, and frozen precipitation. They look as good in the cold of winter as they do in the heat of summer.
Modern metallic roofs don’t have to look like metal: To the contrary, many of them are virtually indistinguishable from natural products like clay, wood, or stone. While you will know that you have a metal roof, your neighbors might not even know – unless you tell them, of course. And why not?
Modern metallic roofs are quiet and well-insulated: You’ll never have to worry about your metal roof disturbing your sleep during an overnight rainstorm. You can rest easy, knowing that the space over your head will never raise a ruckus.
Modern metallic roofs can save you serious money on your utility bills: Just think of how much you spend on air-conditioning during our sultry summer season. Why settle for dark, heat-absorbing asphalt shingles when attractive, light-colored metal roofing can send much of that stifling warmth back where it came from?
Modern metallic roofs are economical: This is especially true when you consider that metal roofing can outlast traditional options by a factor of 3 to 1, according to the experts at State Farm Insurance. Why replace your roof every 15-20 years when today’s metal roofing can last for half a century or longer?
Modern metallic roofs will give you greater peace of mind: It’s reassuring to know that metal roofing will never go up in flames. That’s the kind of reassurance that old-fashioned shingles can never provide.

Eye-catching good looks that can boost your home’s resale value

Some people think of a new roof as an expense. But it’s more accurate to think of metallic roofing as an investment. This is especially true here in the Eastern United States, where homeowners typically recoup more than 95% of the costs of installation. This can make a world of difference to your bank account when the time comes to sell your home.

Backing our North Carolina metal roof installations with an unbeatable warranty

Our modern metallic roofs are backed by manufacturer-authorized warranties ranging from 50 years to the life of your home. Just ask our experts for the details. We offer both residential metal roofing service and commercial metal roofing service.

Give Premiere Roofing a call for all of your metal roofing service needs

A great product virtually sells itself. That’s why you’ll never have to worry about our metal roofing company trying to strong-arm you into buying something you don’t want or need. Instead, we’ll drop by at a time that’s convenient for you, inspect your current roof, listen to your needs, and work up a no-obligation quote for your review. What could be easier?

Contact Premiere Roofing today to learn more about our metal roofing services. Our customer service specialists are looking forward to your call. Remember, we want to be your local metal roofing company. We proudly serve North Carolina homes and businesses throughout Charlotte, Wilmington, and all of Catawba County.

Five Things You Should Know About Metal Roof Coatings

December 24, 2020/in Commercial Roofing Services, Metal Roofing Services/by Garron Lytton

Choosing a roof for a commercial structure is a big decision. The choice you make can substantially affect your building’s beauty and longevity for decades to come.

Many of our clients have found that a metal roof is the best choice for their needs. But did you know that the coating you choose for your roof is just as important as the type of material you select? That’s why we’d like to share the following five facts about metal roof coatings.

Fact number one: Coatings are essential for waterproofing a metal roof

A metal roof is laid out in panels and held together by bolts or other fasteners. Over time, rainwater can seep past these connection points and enter your building, causing mold, mildew, and rust.

One way to guard against this danger is by adding a waterproof coating to the roof’s exterior surface. Not only will this make your building more watertight, but it also helps to prevent costly structural damage as well.

Fact number two: A coated roof makes your building more comfortable

Uncoated metal roofing is like Swiss cheese. It’s littered with tiny holes that allow air to escape from the structure. Why spend money on climate control when much of that investment gets blown away by Mother Nature?

A good way to prevent this problem is by adding a protective coating to your metal roof. It seals air leaks and even helps to reflect the sun’s rays during the summer. You’ll save money, and your building will be more comfortable year-round.

Fact number three: You have options when it comes to metal roof coatings

Every building is unique. A roofing product that works great for one structure may be poorly suited to another. That’s why here at Premiere Roofing, we offer multiple options when it comes to metal roof coatings.

Many of our customers find that an elastomeric coating is the way to go. It remains pliable in all types of weather, adapting easily to the changing North Carolina seasons.

We also offer acrylic-based coatings that are highly affordable and provide excellent UV protection. Both options have their share of advantages and considerations. Our experts will work with you to choose the right product for your needs.

Fact number four: Coated metal roofs are environmentally friendly

All of our metallic roof coatings are made with eco-friendly materials following strict environmental standards. Not only are they good for your building, but they’re also a great way to help protect the Earth.

Fact number five: Our coatings can be applied to a metal roof at almost any point during its lifespan

Your roof doesn’t have to be new to benefit from our metal roofing coatings— as long as it’s structurally sound and in good overall shape, it’s probably the right candidate.

There’s a lot more we could tell you about coated metal roofs. But the best way to find out about them is by getting in touch with us today. We’ll answer your questions and schedule an appointment with a member of our customer service team. There’s no cost or obligation to get a customized quote.

Reach out to us today

Now is the time to find out if a coated metal roof is the right choice for your commercial building. Reach out to us today. We look forward to your call.

Six Smart Advantages of a TPO Flat Roof

December 4, 2020/in Commercial Roofing Services/by Garron Lytton

Choosing a roofing material for your building is a big decision. All of the major products (EPDM, BUR, etc.) have their share of advantages. But for now, let’s concentrate on what makes TPO (thermoplastic polyolefin) a particularly good option for commercial roof installations.

Here are six benefits of TPO flat roof system

Advantage #1: Affordability

The costs of installing a TPO roof compare favorably to other options. TPO is typically installed in wide sheets that allow for efficient placement and economies of scale.

Advantage #2: Superior puncture resistance

TPO has undergone extensive durability tests over the years. The results show that it’s 2-3 times more puncture-resistant than other leading materials, making it a great choice for roofs that see a lot of foot traffic and human activity.

Advantage #3: Energy savings

TPO is available in a variety of colors, including lighter shades that reflect rather than absorb the sun’s rays. This translates into significant energy savings, especially in warm weather.

Advantage #4: Environmental friendliness

A TPO roof is recyclable when it reaches the end of its lengthy lifespan (typically 20 years or more). This fact, along with the energy-saving methods used in its manufacture, makes TPO an environmentally friendly roofing solution.

Advantage #5: Ability to withstand the elements

TPO stands up well to rapidly changing weather conditions, from blazing summer heat to rain-soaked winter months. It’s resistant to UV rays and it’s designed to inhibit mold growth, making it a true year-round performer.

Advantage #6: Flexibility

TPO is a highly pliable material that’s ideal for not only flat roofs but peaked and contoured ones as well. This is important to remember, especially if your roof has intake fans, flues, vents, or HVAC units. TPO will not only adhere to these structures, it will expand and contract as needed during the ongoing annual seasons.

Not all TPO is created equal

You may have heard that a TPO flat roof system is less resilient than other roofing materials. But those who make this claim are basing their arguments on tests made of thinner, less durable versions of TPO used by cut-rate installers.

This brings up a crucial point: your choice of roofing contractor is just as important as selecting the right roofing product. Otherwise you may find yourself facing problems such as leaks, mold and mildew, or even costly repair bills.

Why choose Premiere Roofing?

Here at Premiere Roofing, we use commercial-grade tools and materials for every project we perform. We match our approach to the client’s exact needs and specifications. That’s why we’re known as one of our region’s leading commercial roofing contractors.

Want to know more about us? We’ll happily provide references from past clients and give you a free, no-obligation quote. Find out what Premiere Roofing can do for you and contact us today. We look forward to your call.

Top 3 Benefits of Flat Roof Coatings for Commercial Buildings

November 24, 2020/in Commercial Roofing Services/by Garron Lytton

As a business owner, you rely on the structural integrity of your commercial building. A flat roof coating can help in more ways than one. Applying a protective roof coating will help your roof last longer, reduce the need for repairs, and improve the entire building’s energy efficiency.

A commercial flat roof coating extends the lifespan of your roof

Commercial buildings may be built with flat roofs made of tar and gravel (also known as a “built-up roof”); asphalt and rubber modifiers (or “modified bitumen roof”); or with a rubber membrane (“EPDM roofs”). When properly installed, these flat roofs have a life expectancy of 20-40 years. However, many factors can work against that life expectancy, from maintenance practices to acts of nature.

You can preserve the longevity of your roof—and even make it last longer than expected—by having a flat roof coating applied. On average, a commercial roof coating can increase the life expectancy of a flat roof by 10 to 15 years after its application. As a result, commercial building owners can save money by delaying roof replacement.

Flat roof coatings improve the energy efficiency of commercial buildings

Most common roofing materials are darkly colored. Though more traditional and aesthetically pleasing to some, dark roofing materials are less energy efficient. The color of the material is significant because it determines the degree to which the sun’s rays are reflected off the surface. A lightly colored flat roof coating will reflect more light. As a result, savvy business owners in North Carolina might opt for a white roof coating as a way to keep the entire building cooler. White coating is also the economically-preferable and environmentally-conscious choice as it will reduce the demand and cost of air conditioning.

Protective coatings on flat roofs guard against damage from the elements

Weather events are the most unpredictable source of commercial roof damage. Hailstorms, hurricanes, even thunderstorms can inflict damage with felled trees, high winds, and excessive water collection. Commercial building owners can proactively protect against the elements and reduce the need for future repairs with a professionally applied elastomeric flat roof coatings.

Request an estimate for a flat roof coating

Premiere Roofing & Gutters is a leading provider of commercial roofing services for North Carolina business owners. We provide flat roof coating service across North Carolina. Our roofing experts can help you find the best flat roof coating for your building. Based in Hickory, we’re pleased to travel throughout Wilmington, Boone, Wilkesboro, and beyond to help preserve and extend the life of your commercial roof. Call us today to request a free flat roof coating estimate for your commercial building.