Is restoration the magic bullet?

By Dani Sheehan. 

Proper assessment of an existing system can help determine when a roof restoration will be successful and when it is time to invest in a new roof. 

As a roofing system comes to the end of its life, there is no longer the immediate need for a roof replacement. Instead, restorations have become increasingly popular to help extend the life of a building’s roof. Often, roof restorations are a much more affordable option for building owners, and can provide other benefits including energy efficiency, a new warranty and less disruption to the building activities. 

But how do you determine if a restoration is the right decision for a roof? Mule-Hide Products offers options for assessing the current roof and what to keep in mind when choosing the proper restoration technique. 

The existing roof 

Restorations typically fail when the roof is not thoroughly assessed, and a restoration is chosen when a replacement is actually needed. When assessing a roof for restoration, it is critical to understand the roof’s age through details such as: 

• All roof components installed initially, and anything added after 
• Manufacturer information for all components and products 
• Installation method 
• Quality and typical lifespan of all products used 
• Roof's current condition 

It’s important that a visual inspection of the roof is performed with all debris and any ponding water cleared ahead of time. Additionally, a moisture survey and core cuts should be performed to properly reveal roof history and condition. 

Restore or replace? 

A common misconception is that roof restorations act as magic bullets to fix unsound roofs, but in reality, it simply extends the life of a roof already in good repair, delaying the need for a roof replacement. Building owners need to understand that it is not always a viable option if the existing roof is already unsound, and contractors should carefully weigh the options with the owners before making a decision. If there are existing leaks that are relatively easy to repair and have not compromised any components of the roofing system, the roof is likely a good candidate for restoration.  

As a contractor, it is also important to fully understand the existing system before starting the project, as these details will affect the coating system used. To choose the best technique for restoration, first consult the local building codes and then the coating manufacturer to ensure the right products are chosen for the job.  

Consult Mule-Hide's full article on notes from the field for further information when deciding restoration or replacement on your next commercial project.