When To Replace Your Tar And Gravel Commercial Roof

A tar and gravel roof provides a long lasting and durable option for a commercial building, but even these roofs can't last forever. The following guide can help you decide whether you need to schedule a new roof replacement on your business. 

Weight Concerns

Tar and gravel roofs are often chosen because they can easily be repaired by the addition of a fresh layer of asphalt and gravel. Unfortunately, these repairs aren't without limit. Every building has weight limitations when it comes to the roof. Eventually, the buildup of tar and gravel repairs will add too much weight, which will result in a possible roof collapse if any further layers are added. At this point, a teardown and full roof replacement is necessary.

If you know that the roof as been patched and additional layers have been added, then you need to have it inspected before performing any more repairs. Your roofing contractor can assess the current weight of your roof and help you determine whether a repair is possible or if the time for replacement has arrived.

Penetrating Cracks

Small cracks in a tar and gravel roof can typically be patched over as long as they haven't penetrated through the bottom layer of the membrane. Generally, this means that as long as water is not leaking through the roof and into the building, then the roof can be repaired.

If the roof develops penetrating cracks, then any attempted patches are temporary at best, as water will make its way around the patch sooner rather than later. If you notice cracks on your commercial roof, don't attempt a DIY repair. Instead, schedule a full inspection so you can determine the severity of the cracks and whether a replacement is in order.

Decking Decay

Every roof, including a tar and gravel roof, is installed over decking (which sometimes called sheathing). Plywood decking is very common, but steel decking may also be used. When it comes to plywood decking, small leaks can lead to wood rot and roof punctures can lead to irreparable damage. If the plywood decking has begun to decay, then the entire roof will need to be removed so that both the decking and roof materials can be replaced.

Steel decking is less prone to damages, but it is not immune. Rust and corrosion, usually as a result of a leak, can leave holes in the decking. Although less common, severe punctures, perhaps from storm damage, can also affect metal. If the metal decking is damaged, then the old tar and gravel roof must be removed and replaced, along with the damaged section of decking.

Contact your nearest Durafoam Roofing LLC if it is time to replace your tar and gravel roof.


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