Commercial Roof Installation Guide

Commercial Roof Installation Guide
When it comes to commercial buildings, the roof is one of the most critical structural elements. A properly installed commercial roof protects your investment, enhances energy efficiency, and ensures the safety and comfort of the building’s occupants. At Motor City Roofers, we’ve spent years serving Detroit businesses with expert roofing solutions, and we know that successful commercial roof installation begins with planning, selecting the right materials, and working with experienced professionals. Here’s a comprehensive guide to walk you through the commercial roof installation process.

1. Assessing the Building and Existing Roof
Before anything else, a professional roof assessment is essential. Our team at Motor City Roofers conducts a full evaluation of your current roofing system, drainage setup, insulation condition, and any structural concerns. If you’re replacing an old roof, we examine whether a full tear-off is necessary or if your building is eligible for a re-roofing or restoration solution.
We also take into account Detroit’s climate—heavy snow, rain, and seasonal temperature swings all play a role in choosing the best system for your building.

2. Choosing the Right Commercial Roofing System
Not all commercial roofs are the same. Depending on the size, slope, and purpose of your building, you’ll want to choose a roofing system that meets your durability, maintenance, and energy needs.
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Common Commercial Roofing Options:

• TPO (Thermoplastic Polyolefin): Popular for its energy efficiency, durability, and UV resistance.
• EPDM (Ethylene Propylene Diene Monomer): A synthetic rubber membrane great for low-slope roofs and known for its flexibility and longevity.
• PVC (Polyvinyl Chloride): Excellent for chemical resistance and waterproofing; often used in restaurants and manufacturing facilities.
• Metal Roofing: Extremely durable and long-lasting, ideal for larger commercial and industrial facilities.
• Modified Bitumen: Offers strong performance in extreme temperatures; often used in Detroit for its rugged weather adaptability.
• Built-Up Roofing (BUR): Multiple layers of tar and gravel offer excellent waterproofing and protection.

3. Permits and Compliance
Detroit requires commercial roofing projects to meet specific building codes and regulations. At Motor City Roofers, we handle the permit process for you, ensuring your roof meets Michigan’s safety, energy, and fire codes. This step is crucial to avoid fines, delays, or potential issues during future inspections.

4. Scheduling and Preparing the Job Site
Roofing installations can disrupt normal business operations if not carefully scheduled. We work with your team to plan the best time to begin work, often targeting off-hours or low-traffic periods to minimize inconvenience.
Preparation includes:

• Setting up safety barriers
• Protecting HVAC units, skylights, and drains
• Planning material storage and waste disposal
• Notifying occupants of potential noise or disruptions

5. Removing the Old Roof (If Applicable)
For tear-off installations, the old roofing system is removed down to the deck. We assess the condition of the substrate, replacing any rotted or damaged materials. This step ensures a solid foundation for the new roofing membrane and insulation.

6. Installing Insulation and Vapor Barriers
Insulation is crucial for energy efficiency and temperature control, especially in Detroit's variable climate. We install rigid insulation boards, typically polyisocyanurate or EPS (expanded polystyrene), tailored to your building’s R-value requirements.  In some cases, a vapor barrier is installed beneath the insulation to prevent condensation build-up, particularly in high-humidity environments.

7. Membrane or Roofing System Installation
This is the core phase of your new commercial roof. Depending on the material chosen, different techniques are used:

• TPO/PVC: Installed using heat-welding for seams and fully adhered, mechanically fastened, or ballasted.
• EPDM: Typically adhered using adhesives, tapes, or fasteners.
• Metal Panels: Fastened to the structure with clips and screws, with sealants or gaskets at joints.
• Modified Bitumen/BUR: Installed using torch-applied or cold adhesive techniques, often with multiple layers.

Throughout this phase, quality control is essential. Our team meticulously inspects each step to ensure proper fastening, sealing, and alignment.

8. Flashing and Edge Detail Installation
Flashing and edge details are installed to seal the perimeter and critical areas like skylights, HVAC units, pipes, and walls. These areas are the most common source of future leaks if not properly sealed.
At Motor City Roofers, we use high-grade metal and reinforced membrane materials for flashing, ensuring long-lasting waterproof protection.

9. Drainage System Check
Proper drainage is essential for flat or low-slope commercial roofs. Ponding water can cause premature deterioration and structural issues. We check and install:

• Internal drains
• Scuppers and gutters
• Downspouts and overflow systems

All drainage components are tested for proper function before finalizing the project.

10. Final Inspection and Warranty
Before we leave the job site, a final inspection ensures that all work complies with local codes, manufacturer specifications, and our own rigorous standards.
We also provide:

• A detailed installation report
• Warranty documentation (labor and manufacturer coverage)
• Maintenance recommendations

Most commercial roofing systems we install come with warranties ranging from 15 to 30 years depending on the product.

11. Post-Installation Maintenance Planning
​Even the best roof won’t last without regular care. We recommend annual or semi-annual maintenance plans to check for minor issues, clean drains, and prevent major problems from developing. At Motor City Roofers, we offer affordable maintenance packages tailored to your specific roof type.

Why Choose Motor City Roofers?With decades of experience in Detroit’s commercial roofing industry, Motor City Roofers is your trusted partner for high-quality, code-compliant roof installations. We take pride in our craftsmanship, customer service, and ability to deliver long-lasting solutions—even in Michigan’s toughest weather.
When you hire us, you get:
✅ Licensed and insured roofing professionals
✅ Premium materials with strong manufacturer warranties
✅ Transparent pricing and detailed project timelines
✅ Local knowledge of Detroit codes and climate challenges
✅ A team that treats your business like our own

Final Thoughts
A new commercial roof is a significant investment, and proper installation is key to ensuring that investment pays off for decades. From material selection to final inspection, Motor City Roofers is committed to delivering outstanding results for every client. Whether you own a warehouse, school, retail plaza, or office building in Detroit, let us help you protect your property with a roofing system built to last.
📞 Contact Motor City Roofers today to schedule your commercial roof consultation and get started with a detailed estimate.