Notable Advantages of Commercial Rubber Roofing

Posted on August 9, 2022 by bafcorp20

Rubber roofing is a smart alternative to using conventional roofing shingles for flat or low-sloping commercial roofs. Although traditional shingles can last anywhere from 15 to 20 years, they are typically made from materials like asphalt, ceramic, tile, metal, slate, and more. Such materials are not always adequate enough to provide long-term protection, along with an impenetrable seal against water leaks and more. They also require on-going maintenance and upkeep, which can be costly and time-consuming. For this reason and more, many commercial real estate investors and builders are choosing rubber roofing systems.

Continue reading to learn more about EDPM commercial rubber roofing, including its various advantages and how to get your commercial roofing project off on the right track.

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EDPM Commercial Rubber Roofing Facts

Rubber roofing is referred to as EDPM roofing, which stands for ethylene propylene diene terpolymer. Such roofing delivers a wide range of benefits for commercial investors and business owners. Commercial rubber roofing is waterproof, lightweight, quick (and simple) to install, highly durable, long-lasting, and inexpensive. Furthermore, commercial rubber roofs are low maintenance, plus easy and inexpensive to repair.

Composition

EDPM rubber roofs are made from PVC plastic polymers or rubber polymers. Single-ply synthetic roofing is another term commonly used for this as well. Since these shingles can replicate slate or asphalt shingles in appearance and can be easily installed over existing roofing. Roofing material is usually measured by the square, which means 100 square feet. For example, 4 squares of roofing material are equal to 400 square feet. They typically come in rolls for flat roofs, and shingles for custom commercial roofing projects and repairs.

Average Cost

You can expect commercial rubber roof materials to cost anywhere from $300 to $400 per square, so 4 squares of rubber roofing can add up to $1,600 or more, not including labor and supplies. Although initially costly, rubber rooftops can last twice as long as traditional shingles and won’t need as much routine maintenance and repair. There are several more benefits to commercial rubber rooftop installation as well!

Installation

Rubber shingles or flat rolls can be installed over existing rooftops, making the typically dreaded roof repair project much less complicated and time-consuming. Existing roof shingles are sprayed with a roofing foam to provide a fresh surface and added installation. Then a water-proof membrane is applied to the entire surface before the rubber materials are installed. The simplicity of commercial rubber roof installation reduces labor and time, which cuts costs.

Energy Efficiency

Additionally, commercial rubber roofing ensures optimal insulation. And the more tightly sealed and secured, the less heat and air are wasted, all of which cuts monthly energy costs, year-round. Rubber roofs are also energy efficient because the materials used in the process reflect sun and heat. This keeps a commercial building cooler in warmer climates and saves on energy costs.

Dependability

Aside from all of these wonderful benefits, rubber roofs are great alternatives because they are fire-resistant and less likely to crack. Their durability allows them to withstand harsh weather conditions and changing climates, year after year.

Now is the right time of year to get started on your exterior commercial renovation needs in Indiana! Contact BAF Corporation at 317-253-0531 for reputable commercial general contracting in Indianapolis and its surrounding counties.

A Comparison of Ballasted and Mechanically-Fastened Roofing Systems

Posted on April 5, 2022 by bafcorp20

Are you a commercial real estate developer working on a new design build project? If so, you’ll soon be considering your options for roofing. Although there are many commercial roofing options available, not all will be the right fit for your build. It is important to choose a roofing system and assembly that is compatible with the design and structure of your commercial building.

Currently, the two leading commercial roofing systems on the market are ballasted roofs and mechanically-fastened roofs. Continue reading to review a brief comparison of both, and better understand which options meet your specific design build objectives.

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EPDM Rubber Roofing Basics

Before jumping into a comparison between ballasted and mechanically-fastened roofing systems, it is important to have a basic understanding of commercial rubber roofing. EPDM roof membrane (ethylene propylene diene terpolymer) is the most common thermoset roof membrane in the industry. EPDM roofing mainly contains two compounds, ethylene and propylene, which are derived from oil and natural gas. In terms of installation, they are either fully-adhered, mechanically attached using batten bars, or ballasted. In this blog, we will be discussing the difference between mechanically-fashioned EPDM roofing and ballasted EPDM roofing.

Ballasted Roof Systems

Ballasted roofing installation involves laying loose layers of insulation sheets atop the roof decking, followed by sheets of EPDM roof membrane. Sheets that adjoin are overlapped and fastened using seam tape. Next, all accessible points and the perimeter of the roof are sealed or flashed in accordance with technical specifications. Lastly, river-washed ballast is applied to weigh the entire roofing system down for ultimate security.

Mechanically-Fastened Roofs

Although quite similar in design and performance, mechanically-fastened roofing is installed using a different process and different materials. Starting off with layers of insulation on top of the decking, these roofs are then secured mechanically using insulation plates and fastening hardware. Next comes the layers of EPDM roof membrane sheets over the insulation sheets and plates. Like ballasted roofs, all adjoining sheets are overlapped and secure with seam tape. But rather than being flashed and sealed, they are secured in place using seam plates and fasteners.

Quick Comparisons:

Mechanically-fastened roofing is generally more expensive than ballasted roofing.

Ballasted roofs are most compatible with buildings that have large, open roofs and few roof penetrations. Mechanically-fastened roofs are better suited for buildings with roof penetrations or higher uplifts.

Mechanically-fastened roofs are lighter in weight.

Ballasted roofs usually have a shorter installation timeline.

Roof leaks can be easier detected on mechanically-fastened roofs.

Ballasted roofing is heavier and larger in size compared to mechanically-fasted roofs, and therefore, must be upsized to accommodate the weight of the ballast.

Are you ready to move forward with your commercial real estate design-build project in Indiana? Contact BAF Corporation at 317-253-0531 to speak with an expert Indianapolis commercial general contractor about your commercial construction needs and options, today. We serve clients in all industries and throughout all of Central Indiana.

Top 3 Flat Roofing Systems for Commercial Buildings

Posted on February 7, 2022 by bafcorp20

The commercial roofing industry is seeing more and more new materials being introduced to the market, year after year. Some more costly than others, while others more Eco-friendly than some. But regardless of why you might be in the market for a new commercial roof, it is what you are looking for in a new roof that matters. There are three kinds of commercial flat roof materials currently available on the market. Although you will notice they are a bit more expensive than alternative materials, they are undeniably worth the investment in the long run.

Continue reading to learn more about the top 3 flat roofing materials used in the commercial construction industry and who to trust for superior commercial roofing replacement in Indianapolis.

Commercial Flat Roofs

The commercial roofing materials for flat roofs are measured in “squares” which is equivalent to 100 square feet. They generally cost anywhere between $250 and $350 per square, but prices can vary depending on the retailer and roof size. Warranties for flat roofs are typically good for 10 or 20 years, but with professional installation and routine maintenance, they can last up to 25 years or more. It is important to choose a reputable Indianapolis commercial general contracting company for dependable flat roof installation and repair services.

Modified Bitumen

Modified bitumen is a single-ply roll commercial roofing material infused with mineral-based exterior. This roofing material is efficient in terms of installation. There are peel-and-stick versions available on the market for those who wish to install their own new roofing, although this is strongly discouraged. There are also commercial ply roofing options that must be installed with professional equipment; a process that involves heat the adhesive as the material is rolled out.

It is a popular choice because its light-colored exterior reflects heat, which reduces energy bills. Also, it is moderately priced, right in between the cost of the other roofing materials. Since the application process is a fire hazard, it should not be installed in an occupied property. One downfall is that it’s not resistant to scuff marks and tears.

Built Up Roof (BUR)

BUR is the common hot-tar and gravel roofing seen on several types of commercial buildings throughout Indianapolis. It is assembled with alternating plies (3 or more) of waterproof materials, hot tar, and ballasted gravel. Today, these commercial roofing materials are manufactured with more advanced materials like fiberglass membranes, when before hot tar paper was the principal component. Although heavy, smelly, and messy to install, BUR can be a promising choice for some property owners and developers.

Not only is it fire-retardant, but it is also the cheapest of all the roofing materials so budgets can stay intact. But it should not be installed in a building that is occupied. This is a perfect choice for those remodeling a commercial property that is still vacant. Keep in mind that it is a big job that requires the services of a professional commercial contractor.

Rubber Membrane

Rubber roofing is an excellent choice for commercial properties in warm climates. It is effectually resistant to sunlight damage and can be installed one of three ways: glued-on, anchored with fasteners, or ballasted with stone. It is highly durable, resistant to scuffs and rips, light in weight, and water leaks are easy to patch. It is on the higher end of the price spectrum, being that it is more expensive than BUR and bitumen, but it is a wise choice for many commercial properties.

Are you wondering if you should upgrade or replace your commercial roofing system? Contact BAF Corporation at 317-253-0531 for licensed and certified commercial general contractor services in Indianapolis Indiana. We serve clients all throughout the state.

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How Long Does Commercial Roof Replacement Take?

Posted on December 17, 2021 by bafcorp20

For commercial building owners in need of a new roof, one of the most common concerns is the amount of time a roof replacement project will take from start to finish. After all, when it comes to business, time is money, and you can’t always be sure you can remain open or during renovation.

Even if you can keep your doors open during the renovation process, business traffic will be limited to a degree, making roof replacement promptness a necessity. Accordingly, no one wants their commercial building or office to remain a construction zone longer than it has to. So, if you need roof replacement, you are likely wondering the same thing.

If you are a business owner in need of dire roof replacement, continue reading to learn the facts you need to know about the process.

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Commercial Roof Replacement Timelines Vary

It is difficult to provide an exact timeline for commercial roof replacement because every new roofing project is different. Each job has its own set of unique factors and limitations that might influence the overall amount of time it takes to finish. There are also uncontrollable factors to consider, like storms and natural disasters. Furthermore, commercial roofing systems tend to be much larger, and therefore, require a wider scope of construction and building code considerations.

Although it is near impossible to put an exact timeline on commercial roof installation, here are some fundamental construction facts that can help you get an idea of what to expect:

Small Roofs Versus Large Roofing Systems

As a general rule of thumb, the smaller the commercial roof, the less time it will take to install. For example: businesses inside buildings that were once zoned residential tend to have low to moderately-pitched roofing systems. These have the potential of being installed in as little as a few days; that is, so long as the weather permits and there are not any other obstacles getting in the way of construction.

Larger commercial roofing systems require a more invasive effort, including more construction equipment, more materials, more labor, and more risk. For these reasons, larger commercial buildings will require a longer construction timeline for roof replacement.

Unanticipated Obstacles Must Be Considered

You must understand that unexpected obstacles can arise at any time. This often happens after a construction crew removes an old commercial roof, which is a step that must be done prior to new roof installation. After removing the existing roofing, commercial contractors will be able to identify any damaged sub-roofing. Finding damaged sub-roofing will mean extra work, which will also mean more materials and more time to finish the job.

If there are no damaged areas of sub-roofing, the shingle installation process can commence. Older commercial roofs tend to pose higher risk of unforeseen challenges since needed repairs can be revealed after work has already begun, thus extending the total time it takes to finishing installing a new commercial roof.

Top Signs That Suggest Your Building Needs a New Roof:

▷ Water Leaks
▷ Sagging Roof
▷ Curling Shingles
▷ Cracked Shingles
▷ Large Portions of Missing Shingles
▷ Excessive Moss and/or Algae Growth
▷ Mold and Mildew
▷ Roof Discoloration
▷ Roof Granules in Gutters
▷ Sunlight Shining Through Attic Ceiling

Choose a Qualified Commercial General Contracting Company

When it comes to your commercial roof replacement needs, be sure to choose the right Indiana commercial general contractor company. They can ensure that your project is completed on time without sacrificing quality or craftsmanship. A true professional can get the job done right the first time without cutting any corners to meet a schedule deadline.

Are you looking for a certified Indiana commercial construction company for your commercial roof replacement needs? Contact BAF Corporation at 317-253-0531 for superior commercial general contracting services in Indianapolis, Indiana. We serve commercial and industrial clients all throughout the state.

Benefits of Zinc Metal Roofing Systems for Commercial Buildings

Posted on January 8, 2021 by bafcorp20

When it comes to the metal roofing market, you will find that the majority of mass produced materials are steel and aluminum. Not only are these materials widely available and cost-effective, but they also retain several beneficial attributes that make them a highly suitable choice for the commercial roofing systems. But in the commercial roofing market, aluminum and steel are not the only options to choose from. Zinc metal roofing has become increasingly popular as its innovation continues to improve. In fact, commercial proprietors who are interested in a copper roofing system may eventually discover that zinc roofing is a more cost-effective alternative, yet equally beneficial.

Continue reading to learn more about zinc metal roofing systems for commercial buildings, and where to get started with a commercial metal roof installation bid in Indianapolis.

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The Advantages of Zinc Metal Commercial Roofs

Zinc metal roofs cost an average of $4 to 7 per square foot. Compared to other materials, this is a great price average when coupled with all the benefits zinc offers. Zinc roofs are considered non-corrosive, meaning they are less affected by harsh weather, corrosion, mold, insects, and other forms of natural wear and tear. They are also fire-resistant. Zinc metal roofs are highly durable and can last anywhere from 30 to 50 years with good care. They require very little maintenance, so taking care of them is not difficult to do. Maintenance is especially easy since zinc can essentially repair itself because of its hydroxyl carbonate layer’s self-replenishing attributes. This manages scratches, abrasions, and other forms of surface blemishes.

This level of resilience also helps to maintain a desirable curb appeal. In terms of aesthetics, many homeowners admire the colors changes that take place as zinc ages and weathers. As a result of a patinating process, the standard dark gray zinc color slowly changes to a spectrum of light grays and even light blues, giving it a beautiful and unique look. For commercial building owners who want all the wonderful attributes of zinc metal roofing, but do not find the color changing aspect appealing, pre-patinated panels would be a great choice. Many steel metal residential roofing systems are actually coated in zinc, providing more resilience to corrosion and rust formation. These systems are called galvanized steel roofing systems.

Zinc roofing could be a great option for commercial building owners with a green agenda because they are environmentally friendly. Not only does it require less energy to produce these materials, but they are also recyclable. Studies have suggested that the toxicity levels in zinc are negligible, so the roofing industry is encouraging replacing all lead-based flashings with soft zinc materials. Furthermore, they have a great return on investment because they retain their value for several years.

Where to Get Superior Commercial Roof Installation and Repair in Indianapolis, Indiana

Contact BAF Corporation at 317-253-0531 for skilled commercial roof repair and installation in Indianapolis, Indiana and its surrounding locations. Our skilled and experienced Indianapolis commercial general contracting team deliver a streamlined construction process that meets all defined engineering and design specifications, procurement, schedules, and budgets for your commercial office space or business. Call today to request free information or to schedule a consultation.