Traditional tile roofs are attractive, distinctive, and heavy. They offer superior wind, hail, and even fire resistance. With the assortment of colors available, tile roofs can add curb value to any commercial or residential property. They can also meet energy efficiency standards.
Tile roofs are common in the Southwest United States, but their popularity has spread. Initially, the investment is higher, but the ROI (return on investment) is greater; clay or slate tile roofs can last between 50-100 years (and longer) when installed by a local roofing professional. With proper maintenance, there’s a good chance your tile roof will outlive you.
For most commercial property owners, the first clue you have a roof problem is a leak. Ceiling stains (and certainly dripping water) should be investigated as soon as possible. If it’s determined you need roof repairs, before you consider installing a new tile roof, learn how a lift and relay can repair roofing without replacing.
Lift and Relay: Repair Roof Without Replacing
To understand what a lift and relay is, you must first understand the assembly of tile roofs. A wood deck is constructed and a moisture barrier – underlayment – is applied to the deck.
Underlayment materials can vary, but they must meet international ASTM (American Society for Testing and Materials) standards to ensure they’ll protect the roof for many years. Unfortunately, the lifespan of underlayments is less than the tile. Materials often used include:
- Asphalt-felt – aka “felt paper”
- Rubberized asphalt – most expensive
- Synthetic – better wear-and-tear/water resistance
A “lift and relay” is the process of raising the tile layer of the roof and removing the underlayment material. The wood deck should be thoroughly inspected to determine if any repairs or needed. Then the new underlayment is placed and the tile re-installed.
The most common roof lift and relay procedure is for properties between 20-30 years old. Some roofing companies (circa 1990) cut corners and used inferior materials for underlayments. The tile is still in great shape, but repairs are needed underneath.
Advantages of Lift and Relay
One advantage of a roof lift and relay is the work can be done in sections. If your budget is tight, we can determine an affordable way to complete the work over time, beginning with the most problematic section first.
Another advantage is reputable roofing companies will guarantee their work. And the best area roofing contractors are invested in your community. They not only guarantee their work; they’ll be in business and able to address any issues which may arise.
If It Ain’t Broke; Don’t Fix It
It’s a shame to toss perfectly good tile with many, many years of attractive durability left. A lift and relay preserves quality tile and gets to the root of the problem – the underlayment. But the main advantage of the roof lift and relay method of roof repair is: It saves money.
How to Preserve the Life of Your Roof
Your residential or commercial property may very well be your biggest financial investment. To lengthen its “shelf life” and increase property value, maintenance is necessary. Your HVAC (heating, ventilation, air conditioning), plumbing, and yes…your roofing systems need “tune-ups.”
Your roof’s effectiveness and lifespan is determined by:
- Design
- Installation
- Materials
- Preventive maintenance
When you develop a roof maintenance program, one benefit will be the creation of a historical file. Later, this can give you the seller’s edge in a competitive real estate market. If possible, your historical file should include:
- Maintenance record
- Material samples
- Original installation date
- Original plans/specs
- Repairs/changes
- Warranties
Your roofing company may recommend a checkup following an extreme weather event. Once your maintenance agreement is in place, each visit and what is inspected depends on your specific requirements. Bi-annual visits (spring/fall) are standard. Your local, licensed roofing contractor will:
- Create a unique checklist for your property (Does your commercial roof have foot traffic? Membrane protection may be recommended.).
- Examine the condition of windows/walls abutting roof system
- Inspect field – Check for:
- Degradation
- Overlap integrity
- Surface wear
- Inspect flashing – Most leaks originate here. Flashings should be inspected at:
- Drains
- Equipment curbs
- Penetrations
- Perimeters
- Skylights
- Walls
During a maintenance visit, your roofer may notice threats to your roof, like overhanging tree branches or leaf-filled gutters. This is work your roofing company doesn’t do. (Commercial buildings often have maintenance personnel for these jobs.)
Experienced Service
Roof inspections are nothing new and often mandatory during a real estate transaction. But if you’re unfamiliar with roof maintenance programs, let’s discuss the possibilities and advantages. The service and the cost are you-specific.
As a commercial property or multifamily dwelling owner/manager, your decisions can impact many lives. Contact Go Roof Tune-Up for more information about lift and relay repair or maintenance agreements to protect your investment. It’s a smart decision.
