As with any type of roof, a flat roof will eventually experience wear and tear, thus needing to be replaced. Luckily, this type of roof is one of the easiest commercial roofing systems to replace. A new one can be installed quickly and efficiently, in no time at all. Simply follow these steps.
Step 1: Remove Existing Roof
First, the old roof must come off for a new flat roof to be installed. Remove the plies, or layers of fabric, felt, or mats that make up the roofing system. As you remove chunks at a time, dispose of them into a dumpster. Gutters and fascia should also be taken off to remove roofing underneath. Remove all parts of the existing roof, completing a full gut job.
Step 2: Lay Out the Membrane
Measure your roof to ensure an appropriately sized roofing membrane that will fit correctly. Proper installation is the key to your roof being effective. When installing the new membrane, be sure to lay down the EPDM material vertically along the whole length of the roof. Be aware that this type of material can only be installed when the temperature is 50 degrees or above and the roof should be thoroughly clean and dry before beginning installation. Next, spread the membrane across the width of the roof horizontally.
Step 3: Apply Adhesive
Fold one side of the membrane back and apply adhesive. Use an adhesive roller and apply water-based adhesive in two to three-foot sections. Avoid puddles and apply layers of adhesive until they are opaque and you can’t see the roofing underneath. Completely cover one half of the roof. Lay the membrane down over the adhesive while it is still wet. Repeat steps for the other half. Use a broom to position the membrane and remove any air pockets. It’s as simple as that!
If replacing a flat roofing system seems daunting, Certified Commercial Roofing can help! Don’t hesitate to give us a call.
