Commercial Spray Foam Roofing Adds Insulation To Your Roof And Seamless Protection Against Rain
Commercial spray foam roofing is a good option for a flat roof. It's an alternative to membrane and built-up roofing materials. The foam hardens when it cures, and it doubles as roof insulation. These are points to know about getting a spray foam roof and taking care of it.
The Installation Process Involves A Few Steps
Commercial spray foam roofing can often be installed over other types of roofing, including membrane roofing and metal. Sometimes, the roofer can apply the foam directly on the old roof after the old roof has been cleaned. Other times, the roofer needs to cover the old roof with cover boards first so the foam adheres well.
Once the old roof is ready, the foam insulation is sprayed on the roof to the desired thickness. The roofer sprays the foam around vent pipes to create flashing, and they can also apply the foam in different thicknesses to create drainage slopes on the roof. Since it sprays on, there are no seams in a foam roof.
The final step is to apply a coating to protect the foam. The coating prevents sun damage to spray foam roofing, and you'll need to have the coating applied as often as necessary during the life of your roof.
Ongoing Maintenance Requires Applying Coatings
The protective coating on your foam roof doesn't last the life of the roof. It gradually wears away, so you'll need to replace it regularly. The frequency depends on your local environment, but the coating should last for several years. Applying the coating is similar to painting the roof, so it's a fairly quick and easy process.
Regular Roof Checks And Repairs Are Needed
Commercial roofs need regular inspections so you protect your investment. Spray foam is a durable material, but it can be damaged by hail, birds, or impacts. If the foam gets a hole, the hole can be cut out to shape it, and then filled in and smoothed over.
When your roof is checked, the roofer looks for holes and signs the coating is wearing off. They'll also look for signs of poor drainage since it's important that rain rolls toward a drain rather than sit on the roof.
If the roof sustained damage and water leaked down to the cover boards below, the roofer may need to remove part of the foam roof to get to the base so the wet boards can be replaced. Since this can be a lot of work, it's best to maintain your roof properly so the base under the foam stays dry. This also protects the inside of your building from water damage due to a leaky roof.
Contact a local commercial spray foam roofing service to learn more.