Commercial Roofing in Alachua: A Detailed Project Recap
Introduction to Our Recent Commercial Roofing Project
The commercial roofing landscape in Alachua, Florida, requires expertise, precision, and a deep understanding of local weather conditions. At Brehm Roofing, we recently completed a significant project in an industrial park located in Alachua, encompassing three large buildings that needed new roofs. The building owner opted for asphalt shingles, specifically CertainTeed Landmark shingles, to match the aesthetics of the other buildings on the property. This blog provides a comprehensive overview of this project, detailing the challenges faced and the solutions implemented to ensure a successful outcome.
Initial Consultation and Planning
When we first met with the building owner, it was clear that maintaining a consistent appearance across the property was a priority. The owner had previously reroofed two other buildings with CertainTeed Landmark shingles and wanted the new roofs to match. After discussing various options, the owner chose the weatherwood color for its suitability and visual harmony with the existing structures. Additionally, the owner selected a mill finish for the drip edge, a weathered color for the pipe boots, and a crinkled weathered finish for the off-ridge vents.
Unique Challenges: Lightning Rod System
One of the unique features of these buildings was the lightning rod system. This posed a significant challenge for our team as we needed to ensure that each lightning rod was properly flashed and waterproofed without compromising safety. Our solution involved applying a layer of peel-and-stick membrane followed by a layer of roof cement around each lightning rod, guaranteeing a secure and waterproof seal.
Execution: Tear Off and Roof Replacement
Each of the three buildings required a complete tear-off and roof replacement, totaling approximately 700 squares of shingles. The scale of this project demanded meticulous planning and coordination, especially considering the unpredictable Florida weather. Working in the summer months in Florida means being prepared for almost daily thunderstorms, which can emerge suddenly and disrupt roofing activities.
Weather Challenges and Safety Measures
One of the most significant challenges we faced was managing the reroofing process amid frequent summer thunderstorms. On one particular day, while working on the final building, a strong pop-up storm rolled in unexpectedly. Our team had to act quickly to protect the exposed roof. Thanks to our thorough preparation and training, we had several tarps ready and were able to cover the roof before the storm hit, preventing any water damage.
Ensuring Quality and Satisfaction
Despite the weather challenges, our team successfully completed the reroofing of all three buildings, adhering to the highest standards of quality and safety. The building owner was very pleased with the outcome, appreciating the consistent look across the property and the durability of the new roofs.
The Roofing Process in Detail
Tear-Off Procedure
The tear-off process began with the removal of the old shingles, underlayment, and any damaged decking. Our team worked systematically, section by section, to ensure that each area was properly prepped before moving on. This methodical approach minimized the risk of exposing large areas of the roof to the elements at any given time.
Installation of Underlayment
After the tear-off, we installed a high-quality underlayment to provide an additional layer of protection against water infiltration. The choice of underlayment is crucial in Florida’s climate, where heavy rains are common. We used a peel-and-stick membrane in the valleys, dormers, end walls, and sidewalls for its superior waterproofing capabilities.
Shingle Installation
With the underlayment in place, we began installing the CertainTeed Landmark shingles. The weatherwood color was a perfect match for the existing buildings, ensuring a cohesive look across the property. Our team paid close attention to the alignment and spacing of the shingles to achieve a uniform appearance.
Flashing and Ventilation
Proper flashing is essential for preventing leaks, especially around roof penetrations such as vents and lightning rods. Our team used a combination of custom-fabricated flashings and pre-formed components to ensure a tight seal. Additionally, we installed off-ridge vents in a crinkled weathered finish to enhance ventilation and extend the roof’s lifespan.
Addressing Weather Risks
Given the unpredictable summer weather in Florida, we took several precautions to mitigate the risks associated with rain and thunderstorms. Each day, we closely monitored the weather forecast and had tarps and other protective materials on hand to quickly cover any exposed sections of the roof. This proactive approach was critical in preventing water damage and maintaining the project’s timeline.
Training and Preparation: Keys to Success
The success of this project can be attributed to our team’s extensive training and preparation. Before starting the project, we conducted thorough briefings to review the specific challenges and safety protocols. This preparation ensured that everyone was aware of their responsibilities and ready to respond to any unexpected situations, such as the sudden thunderstorm we encountered.
Conclusion: A Job Well Done
Completing a commercial roofing project of this scale in Alachua, Florida, requires a combination of expertise, careful planning, and adaptability. Our team at Brehm Roofing rose to the occasion, delivering a high-quality result that met the building owner’s expectations. The new CertainTeed Landmark shingle roofs not only enhanced the property’s appearance but also provided durable and reliable protection against the elements.
Future Projects
We plan to document future commercial projects like this to offer insights into the complexities and rewards of large-scale roofing endeavors. Stay tuned for more detailed recaps and behind-the-scenes looks at our work in the commercial roofing sector.