Due to the size, structure, and usage of the building, warehouse roof replacement presents unique challenges compared to other commercial roofing projects. Depending on materials and environmental factors, warehouses need roof replacement about every 10 to 25 years.
If you’re preparing to invest in a new roof, it’s important to follow specific steps tailored to warehouse structures while also considering general best practices for commercial roofing. Proper planning and preparation can minimize disruptions to your business and ensure a smooth, efficient roof replacement process.
Make Plans to Address Downtime
Start the planning process by determining if your facility can remain open during the roof replacement process. This is largely determined by the flexibility of your schedule, what’s being stored or moved within the warehouse, and how the roof is being replaced.
A reputable roofing contractor can give you a better idea of what to expect based on the structure.If you’re going to interrupt the use of the warehouse while the project is in progress, make sure you are prepared for that downtime
Consider Internal Protection
Unless you plan to completely empty the warehouse before the roof is replaced, you’ll want to use some amount of internal protection for stored items, equipment, and shelving. This varies greatly depending on what’s stored in the warehouse. For example, empty racks and forklifts may only need minor protection, while packaged medical equipment will need careful wrapping with plastic to prevent dust contamination. Internal protection to keep dropped materials or tools from injuring workers is another consideration if you plan to keep the warehouse operational throughout the roof replacement. Your contractor should be able to provide guidance on how to protect your space.
Stagger Warehouse Roofing Upgrades
If you have multiple structures in need of new commercial roofing, it’s best to stagger the work so you can stick to a regular schedule in as many buildings as possible. Your other warehouses can absorb the extra products or equipment in need of storage as one is receiving a roof replacement at a time. You can still have all your commercial roofs renewed at once, just with less disruption to your normal business routine. This is often recommended even for empty facilities that aren’t in use so that crews can focus on one roof at a time.
Choose the Right Project and Replacement Materials
Unless there are structural limitations, there’s nothing limiting you from upgrading to better commercial roofing materials as part of the process. Most warehouse roof replacement projects involve EPDM or TPO roofing that is rolled out and adhered to the surface. While these materials are long-lasting and budget-friendly, they’re not the toughest or most stylish options for visible warehouses. Upgrading to metal commercial roofing could give you more time before the next roof replacement, not to mention offering a distinctive look. Your contactor will inform you of the best material options and approach but having some knowledge going into that conversation never hurts!
Create a Material Staging Area
Warehouse roofs can cover thousands of square feet. The materials needed for covering this kind of area will require their own dedicated staging area that is out of the way of other traffic. Designate plenty of space for the roofing crews since they’ll need to set up scaffolding and bring in heavy equipment as well. Even if you plan to close the warehouse while the roof replacement is happening, you’ll want to separate out the materials for the project so they’re accessible for the workers. Make sure the staging area is accessible by large trucks to ease delivery and cleanup.
Notify Your Clients and Customers
No matter what plan you choose, you should notify your clients or customers that your warehouse is undergoing necessary maintenance. You may end up with delays even if you make a plan to stay in operation because it’s simply impossible to predict everything that can happen during construction. However, working with an experienced company like Delta Innovative Services goes a long way in preventing slowdowns or delays.
Establish a Communication Process with the Roofing Company
Stay on top of the project by establishing a clear line of communication with the commercial roofing company you choose. You need to know when to expect the project to wrap up so you can get your workforce back in, or at least what to expect for noise and traffic obstructions when the work is ongoing. You need multiple points of contact if possible with the company, along with a primary project manager who is the final word on the roofing process.
Choose Delta Innovative Services for help with your warehouse roof replacement needs. Our expertise and over 250 combined years of experience will give you the peace of mind you need to make a major investment. Upgrade and update your most valuable storage spaces with our help, including seamless service if you need to stay in operation throughout the work.