Vincent Albert Gentilozzi is the owner and operator of Stormshield Roofing in Lansing, Michigan. In the following article, Vincent Albert Gentilozzi discusses the benefits of upgrading a commercial roof sooner rather than later.
Replacing and updating the roof of a commercial building may be an expensive endeavor, but it's certainly one that comes with considerable perks if done properly. From decreasing the cost of a company's utility bills to improving the image of the building, the benefits of a new roof installation are significant and will work to improve the health of the company.
Company Aesthetic
Vincent Albert Gentilozzi explains that the exterior appearance of a building has a huge influence on how customers will view and interact with it. While the interior may be beautifully decorated, if the exterior is in disrepair, consumers are less likely to enter the space and spend their money.
Installing a new roof can update the appearance of a building. Given the variety of roofing materials currently available, from metal roofing panels to clay tiles, the new installation can easily be tailored to match the aesthetic of both the company and the building.
Weather Protection
As extreme weather becomes more frequent, it is crucial that a commercial building's roof is able to withstand such forces and provide shelter for everything within. Over time, Vincent Albert Gentilozzi says that natural wear will damage a roof and decrease its durability, making it more susceptible to leaks. These leaks can lead to extensive water damage that will require professional repairs.
By consulting with experienced roofers, companies can decide which roofing material is best suited to their needs and the local climate. This will minimize the likelihood of damage and ensure that the roof remains intact for years to come.
Energy Efficiency
As technology has developed, improved forms of roofing have been manufactured. Vincent Albert Gentilozzi says that these modifications can serve to reduce a company's utility costs as they make the building more energy efficient.
A new roof installation will remove cracked tiles and loose fittings that may have actually been counteracting the impact of the building's insulation and HVAC system. Furthermore, certain roofing materials, such as steel roofing, come with the benefit of reflecting heat away from the building, thereby reducing cooling costs. Metal roofing is also the easiest material to attach solar panels to, or even to collect rainwater from.
Improved Safety
Replacing a roof improves the building's overall safety, explains Vincent Albert Gentilozzi. Not only will it make the building more durable as a whole, but removing worn and faulty materials ensures that the structural integrity of the building is protected.
Undetected leaks can cause a building to deteriorate as the water damages the materials that make up its structure. Furthermore, these leaks can cause mold growth, which may be severely harmful to the health of both employees and clientele.
City Building Codes
If the roof of a commercial building has not been replaced for a significant amount of time, it may no longer meet the area's building codes and safety regulations. A roof that is deemed unsafe by local authorities can lead to substantial fines and lawsuits.
Vincent Albert Gentilozzi says that deteriorated roof barriers, unsecured electrical lines, or damaged scaffolding are all issues that could lead to a roof failing a safety assessment. Working with a qualified construction company is the best way to ensure that any current safety issues are noted and subsequently rectified with the new installation.
Warranty
Roof maintenance is the responsibility of the business owner, as are the costs of repairs. Given that older roofs are more prone to damage, they increase the likelihood of companies having to pay substantial sums to address the issue and prevent further deterioration.
However, Vincent Albert Gentilozzi explains that a new roof will come with a warranty that, depending on the selected roofing material, can cover the next forty years of the roof's life. While it is still important to conduct regular maintenance, this warranty ensures that contractors cover the cost of any necessary repairs, not business owners.
Tax Savings
The Tax Cuts and Jobs Act of 2017 changed the previous tax rules surrounding commercial roofing. Prior to this alteration, companies had to depreciate their roofs over the course of 39 years, with this time frame sometimes exceeding the lifespan of the roof.
For any qualifying structure, the depreciation of a roof can now immediately be expensed on tax forms. If a new roof is necessary for the improvement of HVAC or fire protection systems, the installation may be covered by Section 179 rules according to Vincent Albert Gentilozzi.
Final Thoughts
While there are significant costs attached to roofing, the advantages of a new roof make it a worthwhile investment that can benefit a company for many years. It ensures the safety of employees and customers alike and can lead to long-term savings on repairs and utility bills. Working alongside qualified roofers is the best way to get the most out of a new commercial roof.
