Ensuring a durable, leak-free commercial roof begins with hiring a qualified commercial roofing contractor, implementing regular inspections, and following industry best practices to avoid costly installation errors.
A well-installed commercial roof protects your building, assets, and tenants for decades. However, even minor mistakes during planning, installation, or maintenance can lead to leaks, energy loss, and premature roof failure. Silverback Torch On Systems Ltd, a trusted commercial roofing contractor in Alberta, outlines the most frequent commercial roof installation errors and how to prevent them.
1. Skipping Professional Inspections
Neglecting regular roof inspections allows small issues to escalate into major repairs.
- Issue: Undetected membrane punctures, seam failures, or ponding water.
- Prevention: Schedule professional inspections at least twice a year, ideally in spring and fall. Use a detailed checklist covering flashings, seams, drainage systems, and roof surface.
2. Poor Installation Practices
Improper installation is the leading cause of warranty claims and early roof failures. Common errors include:
- Incorrect fastener placement (under-driven or over-driven nails) leading to moisture infiltration.
- Improper seam welding or adhesive application that compromises membrane integrity.
- Failing to install drip edges and flashings correctly around penetrations such as vents and skylights.
Best Practice: Hire a commercial roofing contractor with proven experience in modified bitumen, two-ply membranes, and built-up systems. Verify licensing, COR certification, and insurance coverage before starting any project.
3. Inaccurate Measurements and Planning
Material waste, gaps, and misalignments stem from faulty measurements or lack of site inspection.
- Issue: Uneven roof slope causing ponding water and accelerated membrane degradation.
- Prevention: Conduct a thorough site assessment to document roof dimensions, slope, equipment layout, and drainage points. Develop a detailed installation plan and source materials from the same production batch to ensure consistency.
4. Ignoring Building Codes and Manufacturer Guidelines
Non-compliance with local building codes or manufacturer specifications voids warranties and increases risks.
- Issue: Use of non-approved adhesives or sealants leading to premature seam failures.
- Prevention: Confirm materials meet Alberta’s building code requirements and follow manufacturer installation instructions meticulously.
5. Inadequate Flashing and Drainage Systems
Poorly installed flashings and blocked drains result in leaks and structural damage.
- Issue: Water infiltration around roof edges, penetrations, and low spots.
- Prevention:
- Install high-quality metal or membrane flashings at all junctions.
- Ensure downspouts, gutters, and internal drains remain clear of debris.
- Design tapered insulation or additional drains for roofs prone to ponding.
6. Overlooking Energy Efficiency and Warranty Management
Choosing cheaper materials or DIY approaches can cost more in repairs and energy bills.
- Issue: Low thermal performance and frequent warranty disputes.
- Prevention:
- Invest in reflective coatings or cool-roof membranes to reduce HVAC loads.
- Partner with a contractor who manages material warranties and offers maintenance plans to protect your investment.
Conclusion and Next Steps
Avoiding common commercial roofing mistakes requires collaboration with an experienced commercial roofing contractor, meticulous planning, and proactive maintenance. Silverback Torch On Systems Ltd provides comprehensive commercial roof installation, re-roofs, maintenance, and leak detection services across Alberta. Contact us for a free quote and ensure your next roofing project is executed flawlessly.