Commercial roofing in Pine Hills, FL

In Pine Hills, 49.0% of housing units were built before 1980, against 26.1% countywide. That suggests many multi-unit roofs here are old enough that decks and drains need a look before any new membrane goes down.

Low-slope commercial roofs must be built with at least a one-fourth unit in 12 slope for built-up, modified bitumen, single-ply and liquid-applied systems. Ask bidders to show the slope on the drawings, because flat roofs that hold water shorten membrane life.

Positive drainage means the roof drains within 48 hours of rain. Secondary emergency overflow drains or scuppers are required where a parapet could trap water. Orlando International averages about 51 inches of rain a year, so drainage matters here.

No more than 25 percent of a roof can be repaired or replaced in any 12-month period unless the entire roof system is replaced. Compare bids on whether each one counts the repaired area against that limit.

• Confirm the bid lists the Orange County permit and who pulls it.
• Ask for the membrane type and the ASTM standard it meets.
• Ask how the bid handles drainage, overflow and slope.
• Ask who the subcontracted roofing trade is and whether it holds the state roofing registration.

Florida law requires a general contractor to subcontract roofing work unless it holds the roofing certification. Verify that status before you sign.