Flashings and penetrations account for nearly 80 percent of all reported roof leaks. Therefore these areas are perhaps the most critical components of any roof system, but they are particularly important when it comes to low-slope standing seam metal roof systems.
System attachment is the most critical element of roof design and application. Improper attachment results in the increased probability of wind blow-offs and contributes to membrane strain created by differential movement of the system components.
The initial cost of a roof system is typically 10 percent of the total building cost. However, over the life span the building the roof could account for nearly 60 percent of the building’s total maintenance costs.
Roof consultants typically work with both the building owner and the roofing contractor, giving them a unique perspective when it comes to examining roof maintenance. Roofing Contractor spoke with four consultants who work with building owners across the country and asked them to share their clients’ key concerns and their goals in setting up roof asset management programs.
There are three prominent membrane attachment methods used in the U.S. low-slope commercial roofing market. They are fully adhered, mechanically attached and self-adhered. There are advantages and disadvantages to each of these attachment methods which should be considered prior to selection for a specific project.
Standing seam metal roof systems have been on
the U.S.
market in some form for centuries. Early colonists installed copper roofs and
these materials still adorn many government buildings - particularly state
capitol buildings. Today standing seam metal roofs are installed on a variety
of structures in both residential and commercial construction.
Cold process systems consist of multiple plies of reinforcement
sheets that are set in a cold adhesive (solvent based or water based). These
systems are often referred to as cold process BUR systems because the
application procedures are similar to hot applied BUR systems.