Expanding a business is always a reason for celebration. Business expansion often includes the purchase of a commercial building, whether it’s an already existing structure or new construction. Most business owners mainly focus on how much square footage they need for their business operations, which is great, but don’t forget to check the type and condition of the roof on the building you’ll be purchasing. After all, the roof will protect your business assets as much as the walls surrounding them. We have some tips to help business owners get the most bang for their buck when investing in a commercial building.
Condition of the Roof and Interior of the Building
If it’s a newly constructed building, the roof should be in pristine condition. Even new roofing systems should be thoroughly inspected to ensure that the installation process was done correctly. Older existing roofs need to be inspected and checked for any wear, debris, leaks, or other damage that may require repairs, which can affect the sale price of the building. Inspections should also include any structures on the roof, such as HVAC systems, fire mitigation systems, vents, and skylights, for example. Trained roofing professionals will inspect both the exterior of the roof and the interior of the building for any potential problems, such as improper drainage, obvious leaks, or rusting. A professional roof inspection should also include an estimate of repair capital expenses for the roof for up to the next 10 years.
Type of Roofing Materials
The type of materials used in the construction of the roof should also factor into the decision-making process of buying a commercial building. For example, a business that utilizes a building mainly for storage or warehouse purposes will have different ventilation, heating, and cooling requirements, than a building that will be used for other types of business operations. Some roofing materials are better suited for these purposes than others.
Climate and Weather Matter
Another factor to consider when looking at the roofing for your prospective building is the local weather and climate. The Denver metro area and Rocky Mountain West regions experience a variety of weather conditions year-round—from snow to heavy winds and UV exposure. United Materials typically installs metal roofing, TPO single-ply membrane roofing, and EPDM roofing, in our area. Each of these roofing materials is well suited for our climate.
Future Usage and Budget
Of course, two of the major factors that need to be considered are the intended purpose for the building and your business budget. What type of business operations will be housed in the building? What sort of ventilation and HVAC will your business need? These can and will be affected by the type of roof covering your building. Trusted roofing experts, like ours at United Materials, can advise you on the pros and cons of the various roofing options for the business operations your company will be conducting under that roof.
Warranty
Another question that needs to be asked about a roof is whether there is a warranty on the roof and whether it is transferable upon sale of the building to the new owner or owners. United Materials offers the RoofGuard® Maintenance Plan as an added benefit to our installation and services to our customers.
When you’re shopping for your next or new building for your business, whether it’s going to be a new construction or an existing building, contact the experts at United Materials for advice on what suits your business’s needs best in a roof for that new building. With 100 years of service and experience, we stand ready to assist you with whatever questions you may have about covering your greatest business assets.