Services. Replacement Systems

Replacement Systems - BeforeReplacement Systems - After

Overview

Also referred to as a “tear-off”, a Replacement System starts by removing all of the existing roofing materials to the top surface of the structural roof deck.

Although there is certainly a cost associated with a “tear-off”, this roof system provides you the longest projected service life. You have the advantage of being able to inspect and make any repairs needed to the structural roof deck as well as providing the optimal substrate for the application of whatever roofing / waterproofing system you select.

A Replacement System (Tear-Off) is Necessary If:

  • There are two (or more) roofs on the building

  • The existing roofing system has moisture trapped within the assembly covering 30% or more of total roof area

  • The existing roof does not present a viable substrate for the application of a second roof

  • The structural roof deck shows signs of decay or cannot support an additional system

The 2009 IECC and Roof Tear-Off Requirements

R-20 InsulationIn April of 2009, the State of Illinois adopted the 2009 International Energy Conservation Code (IECC)  which mandates that all new commercial / industrial roof systems include new insulation with a minimum "R-value" of twenty (20). This applies to any roof replacement project. Anytime that you "tear-off" an existing roof, the R-20 requirement applies. This does not apply to recovery systems - the trigger is removing the existing roof and exposing the roof deck.

By law, this is now a permit requirement of every Village in Illinois.  And, the minimum R-value is scheduled to go to thirty (R-30) in 2012.

New Roofing System Options

If you have a flat roof, you will ultimately choose from the four major product groups: Conventional Built-Up, Modified Bitumen Built-Up, Thermoplastic Single-Ply, and Thermoset Single-Ply. Metal building owners have the option of Elastomeric Liquid Systems as well.

You will probably want to do some research on each of the groups, depending upon the specifics of your structure and your plans for use of the roof area. For example, if you have a metal roof deck, you are probably going to want a lightweight system. Or if you have a substantial presence of equipment mounted above and through the roof, you may prefer a multi-layer system for its thickness and puncture resistance.

We would be more than happy to supply you with information that comes from the industry’s most respected sources, as well as the major manufacturers, to help you make an informed system selection. Our proposals include photographs that show you the various steps associated with installing the systems listed above, cross-section sketches to illustrate the components that make up each system, and narrated video documentation when applicable so that building owners and decision makers can have a clear understanding in the needs of their roof without ever stepping foot on a ladder.

Get a quote for a replacement / tear-off roofing system for your building