Commercial roofs need regular inspections, roofing repairs, and even replacements. A professional commercial roofer will be able to provide you with a clear plan for addressing these issues and will offer robust warranty and service guarantee policies.
Commercial roofers work on much larger scales, have more responsibilities and risks than residential roofers, and require specialized materials. Choosing the right commercial roofers can help you avoid costly mistakes and recurring problems.
Working on a commercial roof is dangerous, and commercial roofers have to keep both their own workers and hundreds of others on the site safe. The best way to do this is through clear communication and proactive problem-solving.
Before beginning work, a reputable commercial roofing contractor should provide all crew members with a safety plan and a thorough explanation of any hazards they might encounter. This can include anything from working at heights to blocking access to common danger areas such as hatches or vents. It is also important to provide crews with the right equipment for their specific job and to ensure that any tools or materials are secured as needed.
Training is essential in the roofing industry. It equips workers with the skills and knowledge to work safely, and fosters a culture of safety in the workplace. It’s also a good idea for contractors to offer first aid and emergency response training so that workers are prepared for any accidents or injuries that could occur.
While experienced roofers should have basic safety checklists for all jobs, they should also be aware that national or local governments or other organizations may have more specific requirements for certain types of buildings. For example, school board policies might require a background check for all workers who will be at a school, while the owner of a mall might want to be sure that the roofing work won’t block pedestrian traffic or damage retail stores or data centres.
When working at heights, any surface with an unprotected edge must be fenced in with a guardrail or other fall protection systems. This could be a freestanding safety rail, perimeter flag lines with high visibility material, or a personal fall arrest system (PFAS) like harnesses and lanyards that are securely attached to an anchor point and prevent workers from falling to the ground.
When working at night, it’s important for commercial roofers to stay alert and aware of any potential hazards. They should also pay attention to the weather and work around adverse conditions as much as possible. For example, intense heat can lead to sunburns and dehydration, which can make people more prone to accidents, while windy weather can cause falls and other problems.
Experience
Roofers who specialize in commercial roofing have the skills and experience needed to understand and work with different materials, systems, and roof shapes. Additionally, they know how to handle unique challenges that may arise during the course of a project, such as accommodating heavy equipment or ensuring proper drainage on flat surfaces. They also have a greater understanding of the needs of businesses, which may necessitate incorporating additional insulation or venting on certain roof types.
Commercial roofers have extensive knowledge of various flat roofing systems, including TPO, EPDM, and PVC. As a result, they can provide their clients with a range of options that are tailored to the specific needs and budget of each business. Choosing the right roofing system is essential to ensure the longevity of the structure and protect valuable equipment, inventory, and employees.
In addition to having the necessary knowledge and experience, a skilled commercial roofer will be able to install a high-quality roof that is designed to last. They will also inspect the roof periodically to identify potential problems and recommend preventative maintenance. This will help to minimize the risk of disruptions to your business, as well as avoid costly repairs and replacements in the future.
Many residential roofers use large crews to re-roof houses, which allows them to complete a project quickly and efficiently. However, a commercial roofer will typically have to work with larger buildings that require more time and effort to complete.
A career in commercial roofing requires a strong work ethic, attention to detail, and a willingness to learn new skills and methods. It can also be dangerous, and experienced roofers are trained in safety protocols to minimize accidents and injuries. Those who are interested in physical labor and are passionate about building will find a job in commercial roofing an ideal fit.
Another advantage of working with a skilled commercial roofer is that they can save you money in the long run by performing regular inspections and identifying issues before they become serious. They can also suggest ways to optimize your roof’s performance and minimize energy costs. Additionally, they can recommend other services that are beneficial to your business, such as roof cleaning or painting.
Licenses & Insurance
If you’re looking for a commercial roofer to handle your business’s roofing needs, you should look for one who has a license. This shows that they have passed a state exam and are approved to work on specific types of roofing projects. In addition, a licensed roofer is likely to be covered by a wide range of insurance policies that will protect you in the event of an accident or other unforeseen circumstances.
When choosing a commercial roofer, you should also ask for past client references and check online reviews to ensure that other people had positive experiences working with the company. This will help you narrow down your options and find a roofer who is best suited for your business’s roofing needs.
Additionally, a licensed roofer is likely to have workers’ compensation and commercial auto insurance. Workers’ compensation is mandatory in most states for all employees, and it covers medical expenses and lost wages if an employee is injured on the job. Commercial auto insurance is a must for any business that uses a vehicle, and it covers the cost of repair or replacement if the vehicle is damaged while it’s in use for work purposes.
In addition to these essential policies, it’s a good idea for commercial roofers to have professional liability and surety bonds. Professional liability insurance may cover the costs of legal fees and settlements if an individual accuses you of giving them bad advice or doing shoddy work. A surety bond, on the other hand, is a form of security that guarantees your work will be completed.
Depending on the state you live in, there are different requirements for commercial roofers and other contractors. You can learn more about your state’s licensing laws by contacting the Department of Professional and Occupational Regulation.
Reputation
A good commercial roofer has a strong reputation in the construction industry. They understand the unique requirements of each project, ensuring that your business will get the roof it needs. They are also familiar with the latest technologies and products to ensure that your roof is built with the highest quality materials.
A commercial roofer should be able to provide references from past clients and testimonials that showcase their work. These are a great way to see what type of work they can do for you, and whether or not they are the right fit for your business. When looking at these testimonials, pay attention to how the roofing contractor treats their clients. If they are friendly and knowledgeable, and take the time to answer your questions, this is a sign of a good roofing company.
Be wary of roofers who use high-pressure tactics. They may try to rush you into making a decision or demand large upfront payments. They may also use cheap materials that quickly deteriorate or leave you with leaks and other problems down the line.
It is important to hire a commercial roofing company that has extensive photos and videos of their work. This will give you a glimpse into their capabilities and show that they have the experience you need. You can also ask them to explain the process and timeline of each project.
A good roofing contractor will make sure you are clear about the scope of the work, timeline, cost, and any warranties or guarantees. They will also be able to give you a detailed written contract that protects both you and them.
Choosing the right commercial roofer is a significant investment into your business, and you want to be sure that it will last. Investing in a quality roof from the start will save you money in the long run and protect your business from costly repairs. It is a good idea to stick with local companies because they will be easier to reach for any future maintenance or emergency repairs. This will also reduce the amount of time that you need to spend searching for the best company.
