When Is Recovery an Option?
Local building codes dictate how many layers of roofing can be on a commercial flat roof. In the Philadelphia area, you are allowed a maximum of two. That means, if you already have two layers of roofing on your building and want to add a third, you will have to remove both and start over.
This is due to weight and structural concerns.
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Weight and Structural Considerations
Adding an extra layer of roofing means adding more weight to the load-bearing structural elements that hold up your roof.
Flat roofs are designed to hold a certain amount of weight. Exceeding that capacity can lead to water ponding, roof leaks, wet or compressed insulation, and damaged roof decks and support beams leading to costly repairs and/or structural failure.
What Do You Recommend?
A flat roof recover is much less expensive than a total tear-off and replacement, especially if you have to upgrade the insulation. We recommend a recover on single-layer flat roofs as long as the existing roof insulation and structure are in sound condition.
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