Commercial roofing issues can be a huge headache. After all, your roof is an investment, and you want it to last as long as possible while performing properly. Unfortunately, it’s almost inevitable that you will encounter a commercial roofing issue or two over the lifespan of your commercial roof. 

Below, we’ve listed some of the most common problems our team at AMW Contracting encounters during roof inspections or emergency repair calls. With this knowledge in mind, you can take steps to minimize the effects of certain issues before they become larger problems.

1. Improper installation or use of the wrong commercial roofing materials.

Because commercial roofing projects are so high-stakes, it’s important for certified professionals to conduct installation and repairs. If your roof is poorly installed by amateurs, you’re sure to deal with issues later down the road that cost much more than if you’d invested in the work of a licensed professional to begin with. 

Furthermore, a professional team with commercial roofing experience can be trusted to choose the right roofing materials for your building, as certain materials are best for facilities in certain industries.

2. Skipped maintenance steps

Your roof will only stay functional and intact for years on end if it is properly maintained. Even the best commercial roofing systems require regular maintenance to ensure their continued performance. 

Regular maintenance includes having your roof inspected at set intervals and ensuring minor repairs are taken care of immediately. Even if you haven’t noticed any major issues with your roof, having it inspected by a professional who knows what to look for is essential for catching commonly overlooked problems.

3. Punctures resulting from foot traffic.

Only allow a professional roofing contractor and other professionals essential to the maintenance of your facility onto your roof. Maintaining this rule at your facility is important because foot traffic is a major cause of punctures and tears in single-ply roofs. Rather than having to deal with a punctured membrane, be vigilant about keeping unauthorized individuals off of the roof.

4. Puddles of standing water.

Standing water on your roof is a danger. It can result in leaks that lead to water damage on the interior of your building, which can be costly to repair. Water can puddle on a roof when leaves and other debris clog drains, meaning something as simple as keeping drains unclogged can help prevent this common issue. However, poorly installed roofs can also result in standing water, especially when the roof angle doesn’t facilitate the flow of water towards drains.

5. Shrinkage resulting from temperature changes.

Certain roofing materials are known to expand and contract when exposed to extreme temperature changes. When this occurs, the joints of the roofing system can crack, leading to holes and leaks. If you’re worried about the long-term effects that exposure to the elements could have on your roofing system, consider installing a single-ply membrane that has been created to remain resilient in the face of such extremes.

6. Commercial roofing blow-offs.

Roof blow-offs are most common in areas that deal with high winds and severe storms. When a strong wind hits the side of a commercial facility and continues over the roof, suction pressure is created on top of the roof. In some cases, this suction effect is so strong as to pull weak or improperly adhered materials right off of the roof. This could happen, for example, when materials deteriorate over time or from sun exposure, or when they are not left to cure fully upon installation.

Having your roofing system regularly inspected by a professional commercial roofing contractor can help you deal with these common roofing problems before they evolve into emergencies. Learn more about our preventative maintenance programs and commercial roof inspections today by calling AMW Contracting at 904-725-4197.

Floridians are all too familiar with the risks that hurricane season brings. Just two years ago in 2020, $37 billion dollars of damage was racked up in the United States due to hurricanes and tropical storms. Commercial roofing damage comprised a significant proportion of this destruction and related repair costs. 

Records for hurricane related damage have been broken in recent years, and there is plenty of potential for new records to be set in the upcoming hurricane season. As a result, we strongly encourage commercial property owners to take as many precautionary measures as possible before the first storm of the season hits.

Take These Steps to Protect Your Commercial Roofing System 

Before doing the work of protecting your roof from hurricane damage and preparing for storm season, it’s crucial to understand the types of hazards hurricanes pose to commercial properties. Severe storms present a number of risks for business facilities, and many of these are misunderstood or underestimated. 

Some of the most important hazards to keep in mind are as follows:

• High winds. High winds have unpredictable strength and can tear off any materials that are not properly anchored to your roof.
• Heavy rains. Heavy rains and flash flooding can result in pooling water and moisture damage, both on your roof and inside your property if leaks occur. 
• Flying debris. Roofs, especially those constructed with vulnerable materials, can be punctured by flying debris or fallen trees. Water damage on the interior of your property can occur as a result, as can the need for a roof repair or replacement.

With these risks in mind, we’ve created a brief guide to help you prepare your commercial roofing system and business premises for the consequences of a severe storm. 

Have your roof inspected by a commercial roofing contractor before hurricane season gets underway.

Don’t wait until it’s too late to find out that your roof is damaged and unprepared for high winds or heavy rains. Request a professional roofing contractor to conduct a thorough inspection so you can cover all of your bases before a storm hits.

Check gutters for debris and keep them securely anchored.

Debris that has built up in your gutters can contribute to water pooling on the roof during heavy rains. Additionally, any gutters that are unsecured run the risk of being dislodged by high winds.

Take care of overhanging branches now.

Overhanging branches and tree limbs can cause severe damage if they fall on your property during a storm. Be prudent about the potential for flying debris and minimize the potential for damage while you still can.

Confirm skylights are in good condition and well sealed.

Skylights can leak when exposed to heavy rains, resulting in water damage inside of your commercial property that can rack up significant costs. Simply ensuring skylights are well sealed before the rain comes will give you peace of mind and keep your indoor business operations clean and dry in the face of severe weather. 

Commercial Roofing Steps in the Aftermath of a Hurricane

If you’ve taken the above steps before a hurricane arrives, you’ve done your best to avoid the worst of the damage. However, it’s still crucial to conduct a meticulous investigation of your commercial roof following a storm. 

During this inspection, keep an eye out for damage, leaks, or other evidence of wear and tear caused by wind, water, or debris. Be sure to document evidence of any issues for your insurance provider. Then, contact a commercial roofing contractor to remedy leaks or damage before minor issues turn into more significant problems. 

Is your commercial roof ready for hurricane season? Enlist the help of our professional commercial roofing team today to ensure you’re fully prepared. Call AMW Contracting at 904-725-4197 to get started.

Many property owners and business managers believe that a roof is a roof. When they think about the needs of their commercial roofing system, they often don’t differentiate those from the needs of a residential roofing system. 

However, commercial roofs stand apart from residential roofs in a number of ways. Understanding these differences is crucial to maintaining a long-lasting roof, minimizing the need for repairs, and protecting your commercial property as a whole.

The best way to ensure you are taking the appropriate steps to maintain the roof that covers your commercial property is to partner with a roofing contractor that specializes in commercial roofing systems. These professionals deal with commercial roofs day in and day out. Not only do they understand their risks and peculiarities, but they also have access to the professional equipment and materials required to ensure these types of roofs are properly installed and maintained.

Questions a Commercial Roofing Contractor Can Answer

When you initially connect with a trusted commercial roofing contractor in the Jacksonville area, one of the first things you’ll likely want to do is get your questions answered. If you’ve never really considered your commercial roof to be different from a residential roof, you may have several inquiries in mind. 

Answers from a professional can fill in the gaps in your knowledge and allow you to proceed with making decisions that benefit your roof, your property, and your business’s budget. Below are some questions a roofing contractor that specializes in commercial systems can answer.

How long will my commercial roof last?

The longevity of your roofing system will depend on a number of factors. The first one to take into account is the type of roofing system you have. Metal, single-ply membrane, and built-up roofing systems all have different lifespans on average. 

The second thing to consider is the type of industry you work in and how daily operations could affect the integrity of your roof. For example, restaurant owners are often unaware that cooking residues and grease released through their ventilation system may shorten the longevity of their roof, depending on its type. 

A final factor to consider is weather and climate. Exposure to severe storms, harsh winds, and extreme temperature fluctuations may cause damage to your roof over time and can play a significant role in its longevity.

How long does it take to install a commercial roof?

The duration of the installation process for a commercial roof can take longer than that of a residential roof, but again it depends on the type of roof being installed. For example, Duro-Last roofs are prefabricated off-site in a controlled factory setting. This makes installation a simple process with little seaming required and few if any disruptions to your business operations. 

Other types of roofing materials can take much longer to install, especially if any delays in materials or logistical issues occur. It’s important to keep in mind that your commercial roof is considerably larger than a residential roof and thus will require more time overall to install, inspect, and repair. 

What types of commercial roofing systems are available?

There are a number of roof types to choose from that are specific to commercial buildings, and this choice often comes down to costs, aesthetics, and functionality. Here are some examples to consider:

• Thermoplastic polyolefin (TPO). TPO roofs are single-ply membranes that span the entire surface of the roof. This membrane is designed to be especially resilient to grease and bacterial growth, making them a common choice in the restaurant industry.
• Duro-Last. Duro-Last is also a single-ply membrane and offers exceptional performance that improves energy efficiency and saves costs over time due to its low-maintenance qualities.
• Metal roofing. Metal roofing systems have exceptional fire resistance and longevity and can be custom fabricated to fit a variety of roof shapes.
• Tile roofs. Tile roofs offer a pleasing visual for commercial buildings and can include Spanish-style clay tile as well as slate.

Get Started With a Specialized Commercial Roofing Contractor

At AMW Contracting, commercial roofs are our speciality. We have decades of experience serving businesses in the Jacksonville, FL community and have built a reputation for exceptional customer service and high-quality workmanship. With our support, you can install and maintain a commercial roofing system that protects your business for many years to come.

Choose a roofing contractor that understands the needs of and specializes in commercial roofing systems. Call AMW Contracting today at 904-725-4197 to learn more or for a free estimate!

When you think about the dangers commercial roofing is exposed to, your mind likely first turns to severe storms, hurricanes, and harsh winds. As a result, the sun is often overlooked as one of the biggest threats to roofs. 

However, prolonged exposure to radiation from the sun’s rays can take a major toll on commercial roofing systems. Without proper protection, they can weaken over time due to the effects of thermal shock, increasing the temperature within the building and affecting the overall structural integrity of the roof itself.

Understanding How Heat Affects Commercial Roofing Systems

The exact manner in which the sun affects a commercial roofing system depends on a number of factors, including general environmental conditions as well as the material and color of the roof. Darker colors absorb more heat from the sun, and a black roof can get up to 100 degrees over the ambient temperature. In other words, on a sweltering summer day, your black roof is likely scorching. Unpainted metal can clock in at around 50 degrees hotter than the ambient temperature, while white roofs can get quite warm at about 30 degrees hotter. 

Now that you know just how high your roof’s temperature can skyrocket in the summer, let’s explore some of the different ways heat exposure can compromise your commercial roof:

• Structural Issues.
  High temps can cause the components of the roof to crack, curl, and eventually disintegrate, significantly reducing their lifespan.
• Thermal Shock.
  When most materials are heated up, they expand; upon cooling, they contract. Roofing materials are no exception. This cycle of expansion and contraction can result in seams opening up, which is a significant problem for the structural integrity of your roof.
• Damage From UV Rays.
  Certain materials can actually undergo changes to their molecular structure after being exposed to UV rays. When this happens, oxygen molecules bind to hydrocarbons, causing the material to become brittle and crack. UV rays can also damage the original protective finish applied on metal roofs, causing rust to form.
• Energy Costs.
  Damaged roofs that absorb heat from the sun can release that heat into the building below. Not only can this make things uncomfortable or unsafe depending on the types of operations occurring within the building, but it can also cause your energy bills to rise substantially. 

Protecting Your Roofing System from Extreme Heat

The good news is there are several things you can do to mitigate sun-related damage to your roofing system. The first and most important is to have annual inspections conducted by a licensed professional roofing contractor. 

The inspector will look for vulnerabilities and problem areas that should be addressed before they worsen. From gaps in seams to rust to the cracking of composites, there are a number of telltale signs the roofing contractor will keep an eye out for. Fortunately, if these are caught in time, minor repairs can prevent the need for major restoration. 

Another step that can promote a robust roofing system even in hot summers is ventilation. A professional roofing contractor can help ensure the right kind of ventilation is installed for your roof type. This will help reduce the amount of heat your roof absorbs and minimize the accumulation of humidity. 

There are also heat-resistant coatings available that can be painted on your roof as added protection. These reflective coatings can slow aging, bring cooling costs down, and prevent the thermal shock and UV damage that come from excessive sun exposure. 

Furthermore, if you’re in the market for a new roof and are looking for one that is particularly resistant to extreme heat, options such as Duro-Last can give you peace of mind your commercial roofing system has been specifically designed to withstand the elements.

Learn more about how we can help protect your commercial roofing system from the sun’s rays. Contact AMW Contracting today at 904-725-4197 to speak with a trusted roofing contractor in the local area.

At AMW Contracting, we understand your commercial property is like a home for your business. When that property is not properly protected by a structurally sound roof, every storm is a threat. With our commercial roofing services, you can rest easy knowing your building is fully sheltered by a roof that has been carefully designed, installed, and maintained by licensed professionals. 

We have over two decades of experience in the Jacksonville, Florida area, and we’re proud to have fixed and installed roofs for businesses across the local community. We also provide other types of building services, from specialty cleaning to painting and millwork. 

Thanks to our long-standing expertise and proven track record, our services are trusted by local business owners who know we are always on call to resolve their roofing issues.

Offering a Range of Commercial Roofing Services in the Jacksonville Area

As experts in the industry, we offer a wide variety of commercial roofing services to suit different needs. Whether you need urgent repairs, an annual inspection, or an entirely new roof, we’re here to help.

Below are some of the commercial roofing services available through our trusted roofing experts.

Emergency Roof Repairs

A leak can do significant damage to your commercial property, both inside and out, and your business as a whole. You need someone you can call 24/7 to bring leaks to a halt and prevent further damage. 

Our team quickly and effectively conducts emergency repairs on various roof types. Plus, we are certified with the leading manufacturers of roofing materials, meaning we can help keep your warranty intact.

Preventative Maintenance & Inspections

Choose our preventative maintenance program for the most cost-effective approach to extending the life of your existing roof. Our services include regular inspections that spot issues before they become major threats to your roof or your budget.

Commercial Roof Replacement

Replace your roof without significant distractions or disruptions to your business with the aid of our discreet team. We conduct meticulous planning and carefully prepare for installation day, enabling you to get back to work quickly under a structurally sound roof.

New Roof Installation

Gain access to multiple high-quality roofing systems with AMW Contracting. We’ll assist you with determining the best type of roof for your building, business, and budget. Then, we’ll ensure the new roof is installed according to industry standards to give you long-lasting peace of mind and a safe and comfortable work environment.  

Types of Roofs We Can Install & Repair

Our experts are well-versed in numerous commercial roofing systems and are equipped with the knowledge, tools, and resources to both repair and install these diverse roof types.

Here are some of the roofing materials and systems we commonly work with as part of our commercial roofing services:

• Duro-Last. As certified Duro-Last roofing contractors, we can repair or install this industry-leading system, which is prized for its innovative performance and low maintenance needs.
• Single-Ply TPO. A thermoplastic polyolefin (TPO) roofing system is a single-ply membrane that is highly resistant to punctures, grease, and bacteria, making it a safe choice for businesses in certain industries.
• Metal. Metal roofs are a great option for those whose roofing needs include durability, longevity, and a polished appearance. We offer custom sheet metal fabrication to provide a perfect fit.
• Tile. There are plenty of tile roof options that will provide a distinctive aesthetic for your building. Our quality materials and skilled team ensure proper installation for an ideal look and lasting protection.

Get started with our commercial roofing services today! Whether you have an unexpected leak or are in the market for a new roof, AMW Contracting is prepared to meet your needs. Call 904-725-4197 to request a free estimate.

When you’re shopping for a new commercial roofing system, you’re likely thinking about both your short-term and long-term needs. You want a commercial roofing material that is quick to install and won’t disrupt your normal business operations. In addition, you want to minimize costs and avoid going over budget. However, you’re probably also concerned about how the roof will hold up in the future, not only because it is essential to protecting your business, but also because roof repairs can be incredibly expensive.

One commercial roofing material that ticks all the boxes is Duro-Last. In contrast to traditional roofing materials, Duro-Last is a single-ply membrane formulated with an innovative thermoplastic material. 

Duro-Last roofs are durable, resilient, and custom-fabricated in a factory setting to reduce installation time and leak potential. As a result, this roofing system truly represents the roof of the future and has even earned a reputation as “the world’s best roof.”

We understand that you’re committed to doing in-depth research before choosing a roofing system for your commercial property. We’re here to help you acquire the information you need to confidently make this decision. Below, you can find details about what makes Duro-Last unique and what you can expect from this roofing material.

A Quick Commercial Roofing Installation Process

Halting business operations even for a day costs time and money, which is why businesses love how quick Duro-Last roofs are to install. This roofing material is custom fabricated in a quality-controlled factory environment before being delivered to the worksite. 

The majority of the seams are sealed in the factory meaning there is much less work for the roofers to do when the day comes to install your roof. You can look forward to minimal interference to your day-to-day business operations, less noise pollution, and less waste. 

In other words, you can enjoy all the benefits of a new roof without the hassle and mess of a traditional roof installation.

Significant Energy Savings

As a business owner or manager, it’s important to save where you can. A Duro-Last roof can help keep your energy costs down and promote a comfortable temperature within your property. 

When you choose a white Duro-Last roof, you’ll experience the advantages of the highly reflective properties of this cutting-edge material. Rather than being absorbed by the roof, heat from the sun’s rays will bounce off of the building, resulting in savings on cooling costs and a more environmentally friendly approach for your business.

Fewer Repairs Over Time

When leaks occur on your roof, they will typically appear at the weakest spot of the roofing material, which is at the joints where two pieces are sealed together. Because your Duro-Last roof will be custom-made to fit your building, there will be significantly fewer seams to worry about. 

With fewer vulnerable areas on your roofing system, you can also look forward to fewer repairs over time. This is good news both for your budget and peace of mind.

Resilience to the Elements

Duro-Last roofs can withstand intense pressure and are made with a waterproof material. They are highly resistant to temperature changes and can even stand up to fire, chemicals, and extreme winds. 

Should severe weather conditions arise or an accident occur at your business, you’ll know that Duro-Last has your property covered.

An Industry-Leading Commercial Roofing Warranty

When your Duro-Last roof is installed by a certified roofing contractor, you’ll be protected by one of the best warranties in the industry. Duro-Last was the first roofing manufacturer to provide a warranty directly covering consequential damages. 

With a 15-year No Dollar Limit Warranty on your roof, you can have total peace of mind about making this business investment.

Learn more about what makes Duro-Last one of the best commercial roofing materials on the market today. Contact AMW Contracting today at 904-725-4197 for a free estimate from a Duro-Last certified roofing contractor.

If you need to replace or restore the flat roof on your commercial building, you may find yourself doing research on commercial roofing in Jacksonville. You may also quickly find that once you learn about Duro-Last, there’s no need to look into any other kind of roofing system. 

When you choose to have a Duro-Last roof installed on your facility, you can have total peace of mind. Duro-Last roofs are known to be quality roofing systems that will maintain their integrity for many years to come. 

One of the main features of Duro-Last roofs that set them apart from the rest is their composition. This type of roofing system is made of reinforced thermoplastic formed into a single-ply membrane. This innovative material is incredibly resilient, making it an excellent choice for businesses with exacting needs. 

Since each roof is pre-fabricated in a factory setting according to the specific measurements of the building in question, there is little room for error to occur. After the pre-fabrication process, the roof is installed on-site quickly and efficiently with significantly less noise and mess than traditional roof replacements and restorations. 

Duro-Last Benefits

Still unsure what choosing Duro-Last would mean for your commercial roofing needs in Jacksonville? Let’s break it down.

Below, we’ve listed some of the many benefits owners and managers of commercial properties enjoy when they choose to invest in a Duro-Last roof.

Benefit #1: Installation

As mentioned above, the process of installing a Duro-Last roof is faster and more straightforward than with other types of roofs. However, this doesn’t only mean you’ll be able to get back to business more quickly. It also means you can save on labor costs. As almost 85% of the seaming process is done in a quality-controlled environment, there is less work to do on site, less potential for danger, and less waste.

Benefit #2: Strength

Depending on the industry in which you operate, you may not only be worried about your roof leaking and causing moisture damage that could affect the interior of your building. You may also worry about the susceptibility of your roof to fire, grease, chemicals, or dramatic temperature changes. Duro-Last roofs are designed to be extremely strong and durable and can resist exposure to these elements while displaying incredible longevity.

Benefit #3: Maintenance 

All roofs require some form of maintenance to retain their structural integrity. However, Duro-Last needs much less maintenance than other roofing systems. 

Because the single-ply membrane is pre-fabricated to fit your roof and is composed of tough materials, there are simply fewer opportunities for leaks or punctures that require repairs. As a result, you can look forward to saving on maintenance costs over time.

Benefit #4: Energy Conservation

If budget is a significant concern as you shop for a new roof, you were likely glad to hear Duro-Last could help you save on labor and maintenance costs. Yet there are even more savings to be had with Duro-Last. 

Because the roofing material is so reflective, Duro-Last can contribute to keeping the interior of your building cool when temperatures soar in the summer. You’ll enjoy savings on your monthly energy bills while also limiting the environmental impact of your business. 

Benefit #5: Warranty

Choosing the right roof for your commercial facility is a decision that will have long-term effects for your business. It’s important to select a type of commercial roofing in Jacksonville you know will hold up for the long run. 

Thanks to the amazing warranty offered by Duro-Last, you won’t have to worry if an issue does arise. While you probably won’t ever need to fall back on the warranty, simply knowing this is one of the best warranties in the business will enable you to feel good about your purchase decision.

Explore more of the benefits of Duro-Last today by contacting AMW Contracting for a free estimate! Just call 904-725-4197 to hear more about commercial roofing in Jacksonville from a Duro-Last certified contractor.