Choosing a membrane roofing material is an often overlooked aspect of a construction job. It’s even overlooked when replacing a roof, as many building owners simply choose the least-expensive viable option. For long-term roof management, this can be an expensive mistake.
This simple set of priorities can help building owners and contractors select the roofing materials to best meet their needs.
- The best protection: Waterproofing is a very important aspect of a roof. Find a material with a good warranty, excellent puncture resistance, chemical resistance, UV protection and a proven track record.
- Pay more upfront: Price is the first thing that most people consider, and rightfully so. But what may seem to be cheaper roofing materials intially can end up being very costly long term. Substandard materials and sloppy installations lead to leaks that damage buildings and what’s inside them. Using cheaper roofing materials can also result in a need to replace the roof sooner, and often requires more ongoing maintenance. Paying a little more upfront will pay off quickly in peace of mind and long-term results.
- Expert installation: Whether it’s a new installation or a roof replacement, it’s important that installation is quick, easy and done correctly. Use a contractor with a good track record and experience using the product you’re installing. For branded materials, always use an authorized installer to ensure you’re fully protected by a warranty.
- Climate and usage considerations: Get the right roof for your climate and usage. For example, if you’re in a hurricane-prone area, ensure that the roof meets wind ratings. If workers are frequently on the roof, take steps to minimize potential damage and wear and tear. Walk treads and highly puncture-resistant materials help.
- Aesthetics: If the roof is a high-visibility aspect of your building, you may want something different than a standard white finish. Custom colors and textures can make a world of difference in a building’s appearance.
- Dependable service after the sale: Choose a vendor with a high level of customer service. A good vendor will ensure your roofing system is being installed correctly, and provide help and expertise along the way as needed. They’ll also strongly back their product; however, warranties are only as good as the company and service backing them. You want to be happy with the product you get, and great service is a big factor in the overall project.
We hope these priorities help you choose the right material for your next roofing project. If you have specific questions or want to learn more about FiberTite, contact us.
