Key Roofing Considerations for Multi-Dwelling Units – Part 3: Installation Considerations

In the first part of this blog series, we talked about materials that are ideal for multi-family units, as well as the need for preventive and reactive maintenance. Next, we tackled energy efficiency considerations for your building. Last, let’s consider how your roof is installed. Improper practices have voided the functionality of many a roofing assembly, so it is important to be guided by the right information – and the right kind of help.

• Local and state codes. Building codes may vary from province to province, and some provinces may mandate following local requirements as well to be approved for construction or continuous operation. Some reference standards, however, are staples. These include the International Building Code, International Residential Code for One and Two-Family Dwellings, and Internal Energy Conservation Code.
• Permit requirements. Additional requirements may also be mandated for zoning and asbestos compliance. Submitting your list of contractors is also important.

In addition to knowing what you should, who you hire is also critical to roofing for your building. In this regard, look for these markers of competence:

• A deep portfolio. Experience in installing multiple roofing systems speaks not only of the contractor’s technical expertise, but also the trust he or she has inspired in the community. There is lower risk of wasting your money on someone who has a solid reputation for delivering high-quality work.
• A partnership with trusted manufacturers. Having the honour of being a Preferred Contractor by GAF (or other citations from other manufacturers) cements the contractor’s standing in the industry. Not only does he or she possess advanced knowledge on the products he or she uses, additional training is also provided to further enhance the way the products are used and installed.
• A detailed project plan. Your potential contractor may have the first two points ticked off, but only sign on the dotted line if he or she brings a comprehensive plan to the table. Installing roofs on multi-family units is a big job, and it is one that should be handled well – from start to finish.

While managing a multi-use, multiple-unit building can be challenging, a little savvy about the most important things can go a long way. Just keep yourself updated on material and installation considerations, building codes and the like. Keep an eye, too, on new trends that can help you generate savings – that way, your investment will grow as it should.