Applied Roofing Services is a full service roofing company located in CA. We offer durable and high quality residential and commercial flat roofing. We provide roof installation as well as roof repair services, roof maintenance and inspection services. We specialize in low slope roofs, energy efficient, zero maintenance, and green roofing. We have 20+ years of experience in the roofing industry.

Built-Up Roof Vs. Modified Bitumen: Which One Is the Best for Commercial Building

Posted on October 13th, 2021 by Applied Roofing Services

Built-up and modified bitumen roof systems are usually designed for low slope or flat roof structures. While both can withstand harsh weather conditions and harmful UV rays, the two are different in terms of design, application, advantages, and life expectancy.

Read on to learn more about these roofing systems and evaluate the best option for your commercial building.

Built-Up Roof Systems

Also known as tar and gravel roofs, built-up roof systems are made of alternating layers of bitumen (asphalt) and reinforcing fabrics. The top layer of the roof is finished with stone or gravel coating to create a continuous sealed surface.

Modified Bitumen Roof

This is an asphalt-based roofing system designed with two layers, namely a base sheet and a cap sheet. While the cap sheet is torched down, self-adhered, or cold-adhered, the base sheet is self-adhered to the roofing substrate.

Modified bitumen BUR can be of two types,

Styrene-Butadiene-Styrene (SBS)– Being elastomeric, it can stretch to provide greater flexibility (contraction and extraction capabilities).
Atactic Polypropylene (APP) – Being plastomeric (made flexible with elastic plastic) means it can resist harmful UV rays, improving your roof’s stability with time.

Pros and Cons of Flat-roofing Systems

There are 3 types of flat roofing systems for commercial buildings – modified bitumen roofs, single-ply roofs, and built-up roofs. Therefore, it is essential to evaluate the advantages and disadvantages of each roof type to make the right decision for you.

Roofing System	Pros	Cons
Built-Up Roof	Fire resistant Looks appealing Cost-effective	Very heavy Requires professional installation Gravel can clog scuppers and gutters
Modified Bitumen Roof	DIY installation is possible Energy efficient Inexpensive	Not tear-resistant The torch-down application creates a fire hazard
Single-Ply Roof	Tear and scuff resistant Easy to install and repair	Expensive Susceptible to punctures

Built-Up Roof System and Other Options for a Commercial Roof

There are two main types of built-up roofing systems, including:

Modified Bitumen BUR

Made of rubber and asphalt, this roof is finished with gravel on top. The modified BUR can be installed on the roof deck using adhesives.

Modified bitumen BUR roofs have three layers, including:

Base Asphalt Layer

This acts as a primary waterproof layer and is modified with synthetic rubber to create a uniform matrix. While strengthening the asphalt, the synthetic rubber improves puncture resistance and elasticity.

Ply Sheets

These sheets can be made of plastic core materials, felt, reinforced fabric, polyester, or fiberglass. They offer weather resistance, stability, and tensile strength to the final finished roofing structure.

Top Surface

While protecting the lower layers from rain and debris, the top surface holds and releases sunlight to prevent moisture and heat damage.

Ballast Roofing

A ballasted roof has a loose-laid bottom-most sheet on the roof deck that separates the roof membrane from the decking material. Though not adhered or anchored, the top layer of the roof is ballasted with gravel stones to keep the roof membranes in position.

In order to prevent excess movement, roof membranes are fastened at certain places on the deck. While providing an aesthetically pleasing look, the ballast roof remains durable by contracting and expanding during cold and hot weather. These roofs are also fire-resistant, energy-efficient, and easy to repair.

What Are Built-Up Roof Systems Made of?

A built-up roof system is made of three layers:

Base Sheet

The asphalt in the base sheet is fastened to the insulation or roof deck to prevent blisters (soft bubbles) and allow vapor movement. You can use industry-standard fully adhering base sheets to prevent the membrane from tearing.

Roofing Felts

These are reinforcing fabrics (organic mats or fiberglass) that increase the roof’s durability while resisting thermal shock and moisture.

Surface Layer

The surface layer with stone, gravel, or mineral granules is finished with aluminum roof coatings, hot asphalt, or elastomeric sealants to withstand dampness and UV rays.

Built-Up Roof System – Repair and Maintenance

Generally, BUR roof systems are prone to the following defects:

Cracks – Small cracks may form on the roof surface due to asphalt shrinking.
Blisters – Moisture can cause soft bubbles in the roof membrane.
Damages – Thermal expansion or detached insulation can damage the roof.

Regular roof maintenance by a professional roofing contractor can help detect these repairs before they aggravate. This way, you can fix the repairs on time and maintain your roof in top condition.

Built-Up or Modified Bitumen: Which Is Better?

While both roof types have advantages and disadvantages, deciding which one is the best for your commercial property depends on your requirements, the building’s condition, and your roof’s pitch.

Therefore, consider hiring a commercial roofing contractor to determine the best roof for your building.

Why Choose Applied Roofing as Your Commercial Roofing Contractor?

With over two decades of experience in the roofing industry, our team at Applied Roofing Services specializes in commercial flat roofing systems, low slope roofs, and green roofing solutions. All our roofing systems are of high quality, ensuring low maintenance and durability. We also have experienced and highly trained roofing professionals who can install your commercial roof in an efficient and non-intrusive manner.

If you are looking for the best commercial roofing contractor in California for installation, repair, and maintenance services, contact Applied Roofing Services today at 714-632-8418 or get a quote online.

About Applied Roofing Services

Built-up Roofing (BUR): What Is It & How Does It Work?

Posted on September 15th, 2021 by Applied Roofing Services

Built-up roofing systems (BUR) are a popular choice for buildings with a flat or low-sloped roof. Made of alternating layers of bitumen (asphalt) and reinforcing fabric (fiberglass), the surface of BUR systems is layered with fine gravel or small stone.

Types of Built-up Roofing

Common built-up roof types include:

Hot Built-up Roof

In hot BUR, the bitumen is heated and liquefied during installation. As a result, installing hot BUR roofs can be tricky, as roofers have to work with heated materials.

Cold Built-up Roof

Here, the bitumen is cooled and used like an adhesive. Cold BUR roofs can be applied or sprayed with a squeegee. They do not emit toxic fumes and are not affected by weather fluctuations. Also, these roofs perform better than hot built-up roofs.

Ballasted Asphalt Built-up Roof

The surface layer of this roof uses heavy stones that keep the roof in position. This means that the lower layers don’t need to be fastened or adhered to the roof structure.

Advantages of Built-up Roofing System

Weather Resistant

Built-up roofs contain tar or coal tar, which does not catch fire easily. The tightened bitumen layer also keeps water away from the building. The fiberglass coated with aggregate makes the roof sturdy, ensuring ultimate protection against extreme weather conditions (such as hail storms and strong winds).

Energy Efficient

The BUR roofing system has a reflective coating that protects against UV rays which helps keep the building cool. Therefore, you can save a considerable amount on your electric bill.

Easy to Maintain

Generally, these roofs are installed in large sheets having a lower profile than shingles. As a result, the material is less likely to damage and therefore does not require frequent maintenance.

How Does a BUR Work?

A built-up roof system is made of three parts: bitumen, ply sheets, and surfacing material.

The bitumen can be hot or cold. If required, you can fasten the base sheet before placing this layer to create a sturdy and safe workplace.
The ply sheets consist of special fabrics that are reinforced with organic material or fiberglass and are laid over the bitumen layer for bonding.
The top layer is coated with an aggregate for overall aesthetics and durability. A reflective coating can also be added to facilitate cooling.

How Long Does a BUR Last?

A built-up roof can last for 15 to 40 years, depending on the climate, construction, and materials used. Generally, these roof systems perform better in warmer regions.

A built-up roof system is undoubtedly the best roofing system for commercial buildings due to its extensive weather protection, durability, and high energy efficiency. All you need to do is to hire a professional roofing contractor to ensure proper installation.

If you are looking for the best commercial roofing company in Orange County and Los Angeles for your roofing needs, contact Applied Roofing Services today at 714-632-8418 or get a quote online.

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What You Need to Know about Modified Bitumen Roof Systems

Posted on August 25th, 2021 by Applied Roofing Services

If you are looking for a long-lasting roofing system for your commercial building, consider modified bitumen roof systems. While being a great choice for flat or low-sloped roof structures, modified bitumen roofs also provide the same level of protection as built-up roofs.

Modified Bitumen Roof Systems: Overview

Modified bitumen is an asphalt-based roofing system designed to withstand harsh weather conditions and harmful UV rays. It has two layers, that is, a base sheet, and a cap sheet. The base sheet is mostly self-adhered to the roofing substrate, whereas the cap sheet is cold-adhered, torched down, or self-adhered.

Factors to Consider Before Installing Modified Bitumen Roof Systems

Tools Required

Certain tools are required to install self-adhered modified bitumen roofing systems, such as:

A caulk gun to apply adhesives
A weighted roller to press the membrane in place
A seam probing tool to inspect gaps
Appropriate trowel to apply adhesive to flashing details instead of a hot air welder

Also, when priming a long-handled (standing) roller in cold weather, use a hot air welder instead of a trowel, unless instructed otherwise by the manufacturer’s guidelines.

Roofing Applications

Consider the client’s location, needs, and building code requirements. Generally, new building codes insist on the use of self-adhering products due to their environment-friendly installation. Self-adhered roofing systems can be quickly installed even during working hours with little disruption. Therefore, they can be installed on any commercial facility that prioritizes client comfort, including healthcare centers, schools, restaurants, offices, apartments, care centers, etc.

Modified Bitumen Roofing’s 5 Layer System

Modified bitumen roof system’s framework features a five-layer combination of roofing components. These are:

Insulation – Provides an “R” value (resistance to heat flow) for stabilizing the roof’s temperature
Adhesive – This can be hot or cold adhesive made of a bonding agent and waterproofing material
Modified Bitumen Membranes – Made of co-polymer with fiberglass or polyester reinforcements
Surfacing – Protects against weather-related damages and UV rays
Modified Base Sheets or Piles –Waterproof layers that make up the foundation for flat roofs

Benefits of Modified Bitumen Roof System

Tear-resistant

Modified bitumen roof systems made of fiberglass and polyester reinforcement layers are the best choice for low-slope roofs with high foot traffic, such as rooftop cafes.

Flexible

Modified bitumen roofs have flexible roofing materials, helping them withstand temperature shifts, short-term force or shock, and expand and contract without losing their shape.

Waterproof

Being made of several layers of fiberglass mixed with polyester, modified bitumen roofs are capable of resisting water.

Energy-efficient

The top layer of the roof can be treated to include “cool roof” features, such as solar reflectance (to reflect sunlight) and thermal emission (to release absorbed heat). This may reduce your building’s cooling requirements, contributing to lower energy consumption.

Easy to Repair and Maintain

If damaged or torn, bitumen patches can be used to quickly and efficiently repair the roof. Generally, low-slope roofing seals and flashing are prone to damages, but you can easily prevent such damages with professional installation and regular maintenance.

Rolled Roofing Vs. Modified Bitumen

Factors	Rolled Roofing	Modified Bitumen
Weight	Light-weight budget roofing material	Heavier roofing material
Life Expectancy	6 to 10 years (with an average of 8 years)	10 to 16 years
Installation	Usually face-nailed in place, with the nail heads being exposed and visible, making them prone to leaks	Fully adhered with a cold adhesive applied to the layer below the roof or secured in place by heating with a propane torch
Application	Suitable for porches, barns, and sheds, but not feasible for re-roofing a house or for a roof with a pitch below 2/12	Suitable for any building with a minimum slope or flat roof structure

Note that both roofing systems look similar from a distance, with tiny rock granules on their surface for UV protection.

What Makes Bitumen Roofing Special?

Modified bitumen roof’s co-polymer roofing membranes help it withstand high and low temperatures, making it a robust commercial roofing system. Besides, it is a low-maintenance roofing system, so basic care and maintenance are sufficient to keep the roof in its best working condition. A modified bitumen roofing system is also versatile, as more polymer sheets can be added to enhance their elemental and physical durability.

Are Modified Bitumen Roof Systems the Best Roofing System for Commercial Buildings?

A modified bitumen roof system is undoubtedly the best roofing system for commercial buildings due to its energy efficiency, flexibility, and weather-resistant capacity. When properly installed and maintained, a modified bitumen roof will be your building’s most durable and priceless asset.

If you are looking for the best commercial roofing company in California for roofing maintenance services, contact Applied Roofing Services today at 714-632-8418 or get a quote online.

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Why Spray Foam Roofing Is the Best Roofing System

Posted on August 16th, 2021 by Applied Roofing Services

Though there are plenty of roofing systems to choose from for your commercial property, a spray foam roofing system is one solution that offers ultimate protection against the weather while being durable and environment-friendly.

What Is Spray Polyurethane Foam Roofing System?

Spray polyurethane foam is manufactured by mixing two highly reactive chemicals- isocyanate and polyol. These chemicals are sprayed in a liquid form that expands into foam, creating a solid, lightweight, and waterproof roofing membrane.

Reasons Why Foam Roofing Is the Top Go-to Roofing System

Easy to Maintain

With spray foam roofing, you can easily monitor damages, such as cracks and holes, and easily fix them with caulking. However, for major repairs, it is best to get professional help.

Energy-efficient

The spray foam roofing system’s R-value (resistance to heat flow) is high, about R-6 to R-7 per inch of the roofing system. This means it will save 30% more of your heating and cooling costs than the traditional roofing system.

Reduced Leakages

Spray foam roofing systems present fewer leaks than traditional ones because of almost negligible seams and gaps. The entire roofing system is impenetrable to water, which, in the long run, can save you more money and time lost in repairs.

Weather-resistant

The foam roofing system is durable and resistant against extreme weather conditions, including harsh snow, strong winds, etc. Also, any damages caused by the weather can be easily fixed.

Environmentally-friendly

There is hardly any waste generated with a spray foam roofing system, and it is not necessary to replace the roof. Only minor repairs and maintenance are required to keep this roof in good condition.

How Spray Foam Roofing Systems Benefit Commercial Buildings

Seals the Roof Effectively

Using a sealant that creates hairline cracks over time will cause water to enter your building, trapping moisture and promoting mold infestations. With a spray foam roofing system, you do not have to worry about such leaks, as the material will expand and fill up all the nooks and crannies of your roof.

Improves Insulation and Promotes Energy-Efficiency

A spray foam roofing system increases your building’s insulating capacity. It contains suspended aluminum particles that are good at reflecting harmful UV rays and help maintain an optimum indoor temperature. Thus, it will keep your building cooler in summer and warmer in winter, improving your energy efficiency and reducing your utility bills.

Increases Lifespan of the Roof

Once the foam roofing sets and dries, it will strengthen to become one of the most resilient roofing systems that can withstand extreme weather conditions. You can also install a foam roofing system on your existing roof to increase its lifespan.

Why Choose Us for Spray Foam Roofing for Your Commercial Properties?

The spray foam roofing system is undoubtedly the best solution for your commercial property due to its high energy efficiency, extensive protection, and durability. However, proper installation is required to ensure top-notch performance. Therefore, you should consider hiring a commercial roofing contractor for installation.

At Applied Roofing Services, our experts have years of experience in the commercial roofing industry. As a result, we can install the best spray foam roofing system for your commercial property in an efficient and non-intrusive manner.

If you are looking for the best commercial roofing contractor in Orange County or Los Angeles for spray foam roofing services, call us at 714-632-8418 or get a quote online.

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6 Reasons Why You Need Commercial Roof Cleaning

Posted on July 28th, 2021 by Applied Roofing Services

Commercial roof cleaning is an integral part of the regular roof maintenance services that aim to preserve the roof and ensure its durability for a longer period. Natural elements like wind, hail, rain, snow, and extreme temperatures pose a constant threat to your roofing system.

Accumulation of debris over time can also affect the efficiency of your commercial building’s roof. With the help of professional roof cleaning services, you can keep your rooftops well-maintained for years, preventing erosion and extending their lifespan.

Why Do You Need Commercial Roof Cleaning?

Professional roof cleaners primarily rely on four methods to clean your commercial roof, that is, high-pressure jet-washing, low-pressure steam jets, blast cleaning, and hand washing (with a hard brush and scraper). The techniques will differ depending on the type of dirt and grime that has accumulated on your roof. Apart from the obvious cleaning requirement, the following are a few reasons why you should invest in commercial roof cleaning services.

1. Ensures Greater Efficiency

A clean roof ensures greater efficiency both in terms of energy consumption and durability. It lowers the surface temperature, thus prolonging the life of the roof membranes. A clean roof also supports rooftop HVAC systems by reducing the roof temperature, allowing the cooling units to draw cool air quickly, with lower energy consumption.

2. Gets Rid of Moisture

Removing any fallen leaves, debris, or other waste materials prevents water from accumulating on your flat roof that might result in blistering, ponding, splitting of the roof surface, or cause its metal to rust.

3. Minimizes the Risk of Fire

This is especially true for buildings located in fire-prone areas or where combustible materials are used. A clean roof prevents the collection of potential fuel sources, thus reducing the risk of fire.

4. Prevents Escalation of Minor Repairs

Regular commercial roof cleaning helps identify potential issues before they escalate into devastating scenarios requiring complete roof replacement.

5. Protects Employees’ Health

Mold and algae that have developed on your rooftops can be drawn in through the HVAC systems, decreasing the air quality inside your commercial building, thus affecting your employees’ health. Professional roof cleaning will eliminate such algae and mold and inhibit their growth in future.

6. Beautifies Your Building

A dirty-looking roof with grime and moss will ruin the overall appearance of your building. But with regular roof maintenance and cleaning, you can keep your roof spotless and ensure an impressive first look for all your customers.

Cleaning years of dirt, pollution, residue, mold, and algae off the roof is not an easy task. However, hiring commercial roof cleanerswill help you get the job done conveniently. Commercial roofers have extensive knowledge and well-developed skills to deal with all your roof maintenance issues. As a result, they can prevent minor problems from resulting in expensive repairs/replacements.

At Applied Roofing Services, our experts offer the best commercial roof maintenance plans. Our roof cleaning techniques aim to keep your roofing system at its best always. If you are looking for commercial roof cleaning services in Orange County or Los Angeles, call us at 714-632-8418 or get a quote online.

1. 5 Types of Roofs Considered the Best for Southern California
2. 6 Benefits of Hiring a Professional Roof Repair Contractor
3. 7 Tips for Choosing the Right Commercial Roofing Company
4. Hail Damage Roof Repair for Commercial Buildings – What You Need to Know
5. Single-Ply Roofing Systems for Commercial Buildings

About Applied Roofing Services

Commercial Skylight Roofing: What Is It & Why Do You Need It?

Posted on July 15th, 2021 by Applied Roofing Services

Whether you are constructing a new building for your business or renovating the existing one, skylight windows are an ideal option to consider. With various shapes and types to select from, skylight windows are a perfect choice for flat ceilings and ceilings with overhead spaces.

What Is Commercial Skylight Roofing?

A skylight is a fixed window frame installed on the roof. Skylight windows are highly recommended for commercial buildings because they ensure sunlight penetration, aesthetic appeal, better views, and improved ventilation. They come in various types and shapes and can be made of different materials that are as follows:

Types

Fixed skylights – Ideal for any room that requires additional light
Tubular skylights – Best-suited for enclosed and tight spaces
Ventilating skylights (roof windows) – Ideal for high/cathedral roofs

Shapes

Dome-shaped/Arched–Allows sunlight to spread throughout the room evenly
Pyramid – Are mounted on curbs on flat roofs and are available with different slopes and pitches
Flat –Ideal for flat or low-pitched roofs

Glazing Materials

Plastic – Needs a special coating to be applied otherwise it will turn yellow over time and become incapable of deflecting UV radiations
Glass –Is durable and offers greater longevity than plastic glazing
Solar-heat control – Is energy-efficient and the best of all glazing material

Why Do You Need Skylights for Your Commercial Building?

The following are some of the reasons why you should consider skylight roofing for your commercial buildings.

Reduces Energy Consumption

Skylight windows can be opened to let fresh air inside, helping to keep your room cool without turning on the air conditioner. Even on cold days, it allows the solar radiation to enter the room, keeping it naturally warm and reduce heating costs.

Increases Employee Productivity

The natural light enhances your employees’ health by reducing stress and anxiety as well as prevents nearsightedness and seasonal affective disorder (SAD). As a result, your healthy employees can perform better, consequently boosting your company’s productivity.

Enhances Overall Aesthetics

Installing skylights add an elegant touch to your commercial building, enhancing its appearance and aesthetic value.

Gives a “Spacious” Feel

Skylights allow you to enjoy the beautiful night sky or nature during the day while also giving a more spacious feel to your existing space.

Curb-Mounted Skylights Vs.Deck-Mounted Skylights

Curb-mounted skylights require a box structure for installation. However, when replacing the skylight, the box structure can be used without re-flashing the skylight, provided the flashing is in good condition. Deck-mounted skylights are a recent development and are considered more energy efficient due to the absence of box structure. Depending on what you need, either of these skylight roofing options would be valuable.

Are Commercial Skylights Worth the Money?

Although skylights are on the pricier side, many of the previously mentioned benefits help outweigh the cost. However, make sure to properly install your skylights so that they perform well and do not leak.

Are you looking for the best commercial roofing contractor in Los Angeles and Orange County for commercial skylight roofing services? Contact Applied Roofing Services today at 714-632-8418 to get comprehensive commercial roofing solutions or get a quote online.

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EPDM Vs. TPO: Which Roofing Membrane Should You Choose?

Posted on June 25th, 2021 by Applied Roofing Services

Single-ply membrane roofing systems, mostly used in commercial buildings, have two main types of roofing membranes, namely, TPO and EPDM. While both can be installed on the rooftop, there are slight differences to consider.

Read on to learn more about the difference between TPO and EPDM roofing membranes and their benefits.

What Is TPO Roofing System?

Thermoplastic Polyolefin (TPO) roofing systems are made of a single synthetic layer and reinforcing scrim that can be used to cover flat roofs. TPO membranes are manufactured in 10, 12, or 20 feet wide sheets that can be rolled up and taken to your facility. They have a natural reflective surface to reflect UV rays.

How Can You Restore a TPO Roof?

Water damage is a sign of a leaky roof, which is usually caused by separated seams that allow water to enter your insulation. However, if your roof saturation level is under 25% and your remaining seams are in good condition, you can install a silicone restoration system to restore your TPO roof.

A primer will not be needed on a TPO roof that is over five years old because an oily film (found on new TPO) will have worn away. If the oily film is still present, it will prevent the silicone from adhering to TPO properly. If your roof saturation is above 25%, remove the TPO and insulation and install a new roofing system.

What Is EPDM (Ethylene Propylene Diene Monomer) (Terpolymer) Roofing System?

It is a durable and affordable synthetic rubber roofing membrane designed for low-slope, flat roofs. It is available in black and white colors, with varying widths and thicknesses.

How Can You Restore an EPDM Roof?

Like TPO, the roof leak is mostly caused by separated seams, and you can restore your EPDM roof with a silicone restoration system. However, the only difference is that you should use a primer first. An EPDM roof has a black film that does not go away on its own, so a primer is needed to help the silicone adhere properly. The primer can be sprayed on, and power washed off in 15 minutes.

Benefits of EPDM

An EPDM roof:

Lasts 25-30 years
Is lightweight and flexible
Membrane withstands UV radiation, hail, wind, extreme temperatures, and thermal shock, keeping your roof efficient and water-resistant

Why Choose TPO over EPDM?

A TPO roof:

Is energy-efficient, as it withstands extreme temperatures, reducing your utility bills
Is puncture-resistant
Can be installed in several ways
Has better dimensional stability and stronger seams

Which Is Better: EPDM or TPO Roofing?

EPDM is a little cheaper than TPO while being durable and weather-resistant. TPO is slightly expensive but has advantages including puncture resistance, stronger seams, and more. Choosing one among the two depends on your specific requirements, budget, and location.

It is good to hire a commercial roofing company, as they can review your building’s requirements and condition and suggest the best option accordingly.

Looking for the best commercial roofing company in California for EPDM and TPO roofing services? Contact Applied Roofing Services today at 714-632-8418 to get comprehensive commercial roofing solutions or get a quote online.

1. How to Keep Your Commercial Building’s Roof Cool in the Summer
2. Single-Ply Roofing Systems for Commercial Buildings
3. All You Need to Know about Asphalt Emulsion Roof Coating Systems

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How to Keep Your Commercial Building’s Roof Cool in the Summer

Posted on June 17th, 2021 by Applied Roofing Services

Summer heat causes roofs to expand, while the cooler temperature at night contracts them back. Although this expanding and contracting process is normal, it does cause your roofing system to weaken. To avoid such issues, you need to prepare your commercial roof for the summer heat.

How to Reduce Commercial Roof Heating

The following features of a roofing system play a crucial role in dealing with the summer heat:

Color – Dark-colored roofs absorb more heat, whereas light-colored ones reflect them away.
Insulation–Insulation in the roof prevents heat leakage to the lower floors.
Pitch – Flat or low-sloped roofs receive more UV rays from the sun, whereas a pitched roof receives less direct sunlight and is relatively much cooler.

Here are some ways to keep your top floor apartment cool in the summer:

Clean Your Roof

Be sure to keep your roof clean, especially if it’s a reflective roof as debris, dust, and grime will reduce its reflectivity.

Install Roof Ventilation

Installing roof ventilation keeps fresh air circulating, pushes warm air out of your roof, and prevents a metal roof from expanding and contracting.

Grow a Roof Garden

Growing a rooftop garden will help you keep your roof cool as the mud in the potted plants and grass absorbs the heat that hits the roof.

Apply Reflective Roof Coatings

Reflective roof coatings reflect the sun’s rays and its thermal remittance capacity helps repel the rays absorbed back from the building, thereby reducing heat exchange.

Paint the Terrace White

Painting the terrace white or with light shades help reflect the sun’s rays, keeping the indoors cool.

Roof Insulation

Apply spray foam insulation to your roof to reduce excessive heating or cooling, improve structural soundness and strength of the building, and to prevent the entry of insects and vermin.

Install Solar Panels

Solar panels are made of photovoltaic cells, which prevent heat from hitting the roof while capturing the sun’s energy and converting it into electricity, thus saving your utility costs.

Heat-Resistant Flooring Materials

Install heat-resistant flooring materials on your terrace to prevent the transfer of heat to the lower floors.

Roof Repairs

Schedule regular roof repairs and maintenance with a professional to detect and fix damages in addition to checking on factors that help reduce the summer heat.

Roofing Types and How They Can Be Kept Cooler

Metal Roofs – Paint the roof surface with a reflective paint/coating.
Single-Ply Roofs – Use UV-resistant, reflective coatings to keep them cooler.
Roof Shingles – Add reflective granules to stop radiation.
Modified Bitumen Roofs – Seal the last layer with a reflective coating.
Roofs with Slate or Tiles – Pre-apply the reflective coating to reduce indoor heat leakages.
Roof Coatings – Apply a reflective, protective coating.
Built-Up Roofing Systems – Replace the surface layer of the roof with a UV-resistant white mineral fiberglass surface or coating.

If you are looking for the best commercial roofing company in California for roof coating or repair services, contact Applied Roofing Services today at 714-632-8418 or get a quote online.

About Applied Roofing Services

Single-Ply Roofing Systems for Commercial Buildings

Posted on May 25th, 2021 by Applied Roofing Services

Single-ply roofing systems have become much more popular than other roofing materials due to their extensive options, distinct styles, and greater availability. These are defined as flexible sheets of compounded plastic-derived material used to cover flat and low-sloped roofs.

These prefabricated roofing membranes can be installed directly on the roofing substrate, reducing installation time and material costs. When properly installed, they offer an inherent advantage over traditional materials due to their greater strength, durability, and flexibility.

Types of Single-Ply Roofing Systems

TPO (Thermoplastic Polyolefin)

TPO includes polymers, which are manufactured by polymerizing polypropylene with ethylene-propylene rubber to enhance weldability and durability. This polymer is then used with other ingredients, like UV stabilizers, antioxidants, fire retardants, and pigments, to produce TPO roofing membranes.

Typical TPO includes both a core membrane and cap with a polyester reinforcing scrim encapsulated between these layers. The cap is 75% TPO polymer, 25-35% fire retardants, and small quantities of pigment and UV stabilizers. The core membrane has a similar composition but includes up to 15% recycled TPO without any need for UV protection.

PVC (Polyvinyl Chloride)

PVC, also called vinyl, is composed of chlorine and ethylene. It is recyclable, fire-resistant, and uses fewer petrochemicals than other roofing systems. A PVC single-ply roofing membrane is composed of two layers of PVC material covering a reinforcement scrim.

The top layer is UV-resistant, flexible, and can be colored. The bottom layer is grey or black PVC containing more plasticizers for weldability and flexibility. Generally, the reinforcements for PVC (fiberglass or polyester) are added to enhance longevity, strength, and dimensional stability performance, thus making it a cost-effective roofing solution.

EPDM (Ethylene Propylene Diene Monomer)

An EPDM roof is a black roof and feels the same as the rubber used in tire tubes. It is created using equal parts of polymer, carbon black (for UV resistance), and other materials used for fire resistance and stability.

During manufacturing, the thermoset EPDM is created using the chemical cross-linking of polymers or molecular chains. A unique character of EPDM is it can only be bonded to itself during installation using tape or adhesive because new molecular linkages cannot be formed after cured. EPDM performs well because it is UV-resistant and has high installation efficiency and consistency.

Advantages of Using Single-Ply Roofing Systems

The following are some of the advantages of using single-ply roofing systems:

Resistance to Chemicals

A single-ply roofing system withstands chemical conditions, making it a perfect choice for roofs vulnerable to acid rains and grease or oil.

Ease of Installation

Single-ply roofing membranes come in large rolls, making them easier to install than other roofing systems. Also, it is safer and less risky than built-up roofing systems.

Easily Available in the Market

EPDM and PVC single-ply membrane roofs have been in use for decades. The materials are readily accessible and installers are familiar with the installation.

Puncture-Resistant

A premium-quality single-ply system with an excellent base fabric provides superior puncture resistance against foot traffic.

Efficient Usage of Energy

Single-ply roofing systems are naturally reflective, absorbing less heat and withstanding extreme weather conditions. They are more durable and can help reduce your building’s cooling and heating costs.

Are you looking for the best single-ply roofing system for commercial buildings? Contact Applied Roofing Services in California at 714-632-8418 to get a quote online.

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All You Need to Know about Asphalt Emulsion Roof Coating Systems

Posted on May 18th, 2021 by Applied Roofing Services

Roof coatings can help protect your roof from strong winds, heavy rains, hail, snow, and other severe weather conditions. So, it is essential to coat your roof with a water-resistant and durable architectural roof coating like an asphalt emulsion roof coating. This roof coating is compatible with other roofing membranes and coatings as well as easily applicable to existing roofs.

What Is Asphalt Emulsion?

Bentonite clay, water, and asphalt are emulsified using a colloid mill to make asphalt emulsion. The emulsifying process breaks down the molecule size and produces a stable, waterproof compound. Asphalt emulsion is odorless, affordable, non-flammable, and non-fibrous. It effectively seals all seams and cracks in your existing roofing system, stabilizing the roof substrates.

Where is Asphalt Roof Coating Used?

An asphalt roof coating is mainly used as a waterproofing compound for:

Modified Bitumen
Existing BUR (built-up) roofs
Hypalon
Coal tar pitch
TPO (thermoplastic polyolefin) roofs
Gravel roofs
EPDM (ethylene propylene diene monomer) roofs

When Should You Use Asphalt Emulsion Coating Systems?

If you have any of the above-mentioned roofing systems and are looking to extend its life indefinitely, an asphalt emulsion coating system can be used. However, your roof should be inspected by a roofing expert to determine whether it qualifies for an emulsion roof coating. Minor deck and moisture issues can be resolved, but if the entire roof is damaged or not structurally sound, then replacement may be your only option.

What Are the Benefits of Using Asphalt Emulsion Systems?

Here are some benefits of an asphalt emulsion system:

Has UL (Underwriters laboratory) and FM (factory mutual) ratings and renewable manufacturer warranty.
Is seamless, durable, flexible, and tough.
More economical, meaning you can build it up to the required thickness without wasting extra money.
Is water-based and does not require heat or flame during application, so there is no fume-related danger to occupants and roofing experts.
Will meet and exceed LEED (leadership in energy and environmental design) requirements with energy-saving reflective coatings.
Can be upgraded on your existing roof and used to repair your damaged roof without tearing it off.
Contains chopped fiberglass and polyester that reinforces its strength.
Has fluid-applied monolithic membrane that is seam and water-resistant.

How to Apply an Asphalt Emulsion Roof Coating?

Before applying, ensure the temperature is not lower than 50 degrees Fahrenheit as water-based coatings should not freeze before the water content evaporates. Asphalt roof coating is elastomeric, so they perform well in fluctuating temperatures and hold up well in freeze-thaw areas.

To apply the coating:

Clean the surface using a blower or stiff broom or pressure wash if necessary.
Apply the coating using rollers, soft brooms, or spray equipment.
Carefully apply polyester fabric into wet asphalt emulsion to prevent bridging and gaps.
When coating acrylics on non-fibered asphalt emulsion, ensure the polyester is not saturated with asphalt emulsion. The acrylic coatings should stick to the polyester fabric.

Are you looking for the best commercial roofing company in California for asphalt emulsion roof coating? Contact Applied Roofing Services today at 714-632-8418 or get a quote online.

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