Ponding water on flat commercial roof due to poor drainage in Michigan

How Ponding Water Damages Flat Commercial Roofs

Written by SpringfieldApril 9, 2026

Ponding water is one of the most common and preventable issues affecting flat commercial roofs. When drainage is compromised, even for a short period of time, it puts unnecessary stress on the entire roofing system.

At Springfield Roofing, we regularly see ponding water turn into leaks, structural concerns, and premature roof failure. In most cases, the damage is not caused by a single event. It develops over time due to poor drainage and lack of maintenance.

What Is Ponding Water on a Commercial Roof

Ponding water occurs when water remains on a flat or low-slope roof for more than 48 hours after a rain or snowmelt.

This is typically caused by:

Inadequate drainage design
Clogged or slow-moving drains
Low areas or settling in the roof structure

Flat roofs are designed to move water efficiently. When that process is disrupted, problems begin to develop quickly.

Why Ponding Water Leads to Roof Damage

Standing water places continuous stress on roofing materials. Unlike runoff, which drains away, ponding water sits in place and slowly breaks down the system.

Over time, this can lead to:

Membrane deterioration and weakening
Seam separation in critical areas
Increased pressure on the roof structure
Higher likelihood of water intrusion

Once water begins to compromise seams or penetrations, leaks are not far behind.

Why Ponding Water Becomes a Bigger Problem in the Spring

In Michigan, ponding water issues often become more noticeable in the spring.

As snow melts and seasonal rain increases, roofs are forced to handle large volumes of water in a short period of time. If drainage systems are not fully functioning, water begins to collect in low areas.

This is one of the most common conditions we see behind seasonal roofing issues. Many of the leaks that show up in the spring can be traced back to drainage problems that developed over the winter.

If you want a broader look at how these seasonal issues develop, read more about why commercial roofs leak in spring in Northern Michigan.

How to Prevent Ponding Water on Flat Roofs

Preventing ponding water starts with proactive maintenance and proper system design.

Key steps include:

Keeping drains, scuppers, and gutters clear year-round
Scheduling routine roof inspections
Identifying and correcting low spots early
Ensuring proper slope and drainage performance

A consistent maintenance plan can significantly reduce the risk of long-term damage.

Why Regular Commercial Roof Inspections Matter

Ponding water is rarely an isolated issue. It is often a sign of larger drainage or structural concerns.

Routine inspections allow you to:

Identify drainage issues before they worsen
Monitor known problem areas
Plan repairs before leaks develop

Learn more about how often you should inspect a commercial roof in Michigan to stay ahead of these issues.

Protecting Your Commercial Roof Long Term

Managing water on your roof is one of the most important factors in extending its lifespan.

At Springfield Roofing, our approach is focused on identifying the root cause of issues like ponding water and providing practical solutions that hold up in Michigan conditions.

Addressing drainage early helps you avoid costly repairs, reduce disruption, and protect your investment over the long term.

Commercial roof showing winter damage with cracked membrane and ponding water in Michigan

Top Signs Your Commercial Roof Has Winter Damage

Written by SpringfieldApril 9, 2026

Winter conditions in Michigan put constant stress on commercial roofing systems. Snow load, ice buildup, and repeated temperature changes all impact how a roof performs over time.

By the time spring arrives, many roofs have already developed damage. The challenge is that not all of it is immediately visible.

Knowing what to look for early can prevent minor issues from turning into costly repairs.

Common Signs of Winter Damage on Commercial Roofs

Winter damage tends to show up in predictable ways. These are the most common indicators that your roof has been compromised:

Water stains on ceilings or interior walls
Active drips or recurring leaks
Ponding water that does not drain properly
Cracked, blistered, or deteriorating membrane
Loose or separated seams
Damaged or failing flashing around penetrations

Each of these signs points to areas where the roofing system has weakened and may no longer be fully watertight.

Why Winter Roof Damage Becomes Visible in Spring

Most winter-related damage does not show up immediately.

During colder months, snow and ice can mask underlying issues. As temperatures rise and moisture begins to move more freely, those weak points are exposed.

This is why many roofing issues seem to appear suddenly in the spring. In reality, they have been developing for months under winter conditions.

If you want to understand the bigger picture behind these seasonal failures, it helps to look at why commercial roofs leak in spring in Northern Michigan.

Hidden Roof Damage You Cannot See from the Surface

Not all damage is visible during a basic walkthrough.

Moisture can become trapped beneath the membrane or within the insulation layers. Over time, this can lead to:

Saturated insulation
Reduced energy efficiency
Structural deterioration
Widespread system failure

Without proper inspection, these issues often go undetected until they become more severe.

When to Take Action on Roof Damage

Any visible sign of damage should be addressed quickly.

Delaying action increases the risk of:

Interior damage to equipment and materials
Ongoing moisture intrusion
More extensive and expensive repairs

Early intervention allows for targeted repairs instead of large-scale restoration.

For immediate next steps, review what to do when your commercial roof is leaking.

Protect Your Roof After Winter

Post-winter inspections are one of the most effective ways to extend the life of a commercial roof.

A thorough evaluation helps identify both visible and hidden damage, allowing you to address issues before they escalate.

Staying ahead of winter damage is what prevents recurring problems and keeps your building operating without disruption.

Springfield Roofing contractor inspecting a commercial metal retrofit roof in Michigan

Commercial Roof Estimate in Michigan: What to Expect from the Process

Written by SpringfieldApril 1, 2026

If you manage a commercial building in Michigan, getting an accurate roof estimate is one of the most important steps you can take before committing to any roofing project. Whether you are dealing with an active leak, visible deterioration, rising energy costs, or simply planning ahead for a roof replacement, understanding what goes into a commercial roof estimate will help you make a confident, informed decision.

Here is what to expect when you reach out to a commercial roofing contractor in Michigan.

Step 1: Contact a Qualified Commercial Roofing Contractor

The first step is finding a contractor who specializes in commercial work. Commercial roofing is a different discipline than residential roofing, and the systems, materials, and installation methods involved require specialized expertise.

A trustworthy commercial roofing contractor will always come to your location to inspect the roof before providing an estimate. Be cautious of any contractor who offers a price without first conducting an in-person inspection. A number pulled from a phone call or a rough square footage calculation is not a reliable commercial roof estimate.

Step 2: The Commercial Roof Inspection

Before any estimate can be prepared, a thorough inspection of your existing roof needs to take place. During this visit, your contractor will evaluate several factors that directly impact the scope and cost of your project.

Existing Roof Condition and Layers

The inspector will assess how many layers are already on the roof and whether any portion of the existing system needs to be removed. Local building codes, your building’s structural capacity, and the condition of what is already there will determine the most practical and cost-effective path forward.

Construction Materials

Knowing what materials were used on your current roof helps the contractor recommend a compatible and appropriate replacement system.

Exact Roof Measurements

Precise measurements are critical to an accurate commercial roof estimate. Even small errors in square footage can result in significant cost discrepancies, so this step should never be rushed or estimated from a distance.

Roof Slope and Complexity

The pitch and layout of your roof affect the complexity of the project. A low-slope or flat commercial roof has different requirements than a sloped system, and features like HVAC equipment, skylights, drains, and parapets all factor into the final estimate.

Decking and Substrate Condition

The condition of the decking beneath your roof matters. If there is moisture damage, rot, or structural wear, those issues need to be addressed before a new roofing system can be installed. A quality contractor will flag these during the inspection rather than after the project has started.

Insulation Status

If your existing insulation has been compromised or is insufficient for Michigan’s climate demands, replacement or supplemental insulation may be recommended as part of the project.

Penetrations and Problem Areas

Areas around HVAC units, vents, drains, and other roof penetrations are common sources of leaks and deterioration on commercial roofs. These will be carefully evaluated during the inspection.

Step 3: The Estimate Conversion

After the inspection, your contractor should walk you through the findings before presenting any numbers. This conversation is an opportunity to understand the condition of your roof and the options available to you.

Come prepared with questions. Some good ones to ask include:

What roofing systems do you recommend for my building and why?
How will a new roof impact my energy costs?
What is the expected lifespan of the system you are recommending?
Are there options that allow re-roofing over the existing system to reduce tear-off costs?
What does the warranty cover and for how long?
What is the realistic timeline for a project like this?
Are there any green or energy-efficient roofing options available?

A contractor who takes time to answer these questions thoroughly is one worth working with. If you feel rushed or pressured before you have had a chance to understand your options, that is a red flag.

Step 4: What Your Commercial Roof Estimate Will Include

A well-prepared commercial roof estimate should be detailed and specific to your building. It should include the scope of work, the materials being used, labor costs, project timeline, warranty information, and any allowances for repairs to the decking or substrate discovered during installation.

Where applicable, solutions like a metal roof retrofit can offer a cost-effective alternative to a full tear-off and replacement, allowing the new system to be installed over the existing roof. For larger projects, some contractors can also phase the work across two budget cycles, helping you manage the investment without compromising the quality of the outcome.

Read the estimate carefully before signing anything. If something is unclear or missing, ask for clarification in writing before the project begins. Clear communication upfront is the best way to ensure the final result matches your expectations.

Get a Commercial Roof Estimate in Michigan

Springfield Roofing serves commercial property owners throughout Northern and Central Michigan, including Traverse City, Petoskey, Cadillac, Charlevoix, Gaylord, and Big Rapids. Our team specializes exclusively in commercial roofing, and we provide thorough on-site inspections before every estimate.

Call 231-263-5300 to schedule your commercial roof inspection or learn more about Springfield’s commercial roofing services.

Michigan Roof Maintenance – What does your commercial building need for Michigan’s climate?

Written by SpringfieldJanuary 27, 2026

The lifespan of your commercial roofing system can vary drastically depending on the four primary factors of Michigan roof maintenance:

The design
Roofing materials used and quality of workmanship
Weather
Maintenance

Design, materials, and quality will depend primarily on working with an experienced roofer. Weather is wildly outside of your control unless you are prepared to move far from Michigan. Maintenance, however, is the single most important factor in your roof’s longevity after installation. Maintenance is completely within your control. It is inexpensive and easy to setup, yet commonly neglected. Perhaps it’s the old adage, “out of sight, out of mind”, or we fail to realize how many critical components there are working together in a roofing system to maintain a watertight seal. Either way maintenance is frequently neglected.

According to the National Roofing Contractors Association, proper preventive maintenance can add anywhere from 30% -100% service life to a commercial roofing system, making it much more cost effective to pay for the proper maintenance of your roof over it’s lifetime than to deal with costly repairs and early replacement. Failure to properly maintain your roofing system can also void any warranties included with your original roof, leaving you liable for additional expenses and repairs.

Roofing problems can also put your equipment, products and employees at risk especially dealing with Michigan’s climate. A small leak can quickly result in a dangerous slippery floor, mold that could cause health problems, and water damage.

Now that you’re convinced you must perform regular maintenance on your commercial roof, how often do you need it, who will do it and what should they look for?

How Often Should You Have Your Roof Inspected?

You should have your commercial roof inspected a minimum of once per year. This minimizes any minor damage created by our Michigan climate throughout the year. If your roof is near the end of its lifespan and/or has serviceable mechanical equipment you may require more frequent inspections.

Who Should Conduct the Inspections?

To save money, some business owners prefer to inspect their own roof. However, many have demanding schedules and don’t have time to routinely inspect for wear and damage. Others, who do have the time, may not know what to look for.

Some of the more obvious maintenance considerations include removing debris, and cleaning blocked drain grates and scuppers. But, what about checking for loose metal edging or shrouds and missing caulking? Before you undertake a roofing inspection, consider whether or not you have tools to help you determine if the waterproofing has failed. Do you have a checklist to ensure your inspections are complete and consistent? Will your warranty remain valid if you conduct the maintenance inspections even though you are not a professional? These are all issues you should consider.

Routine Inspections by a Roofing Professional Often Include:

Documentation of the inspection using detailed itemized forms, photographs, and a diagram of your roof.
Cleaning of the drains and removal of debris
Infrared testing to look for and find thermal anomalies (hotspots) and evaluate waterproofing and insulation systems
Minor repairs at the time of the inspection upon your approval
Recommendations on how to handle any immediate concerns and problem areas that will require attention in the future
An estimate for any significant repairs

To learn more about the commercial roofing maintenance programs offered by Springfield Commercial Roofing click here: Michigan Roofing Maintenance Programs

To ask a question about a roofing inspection or maintenance click here: Michigan Roofing Support

Michigan Roofing – What Roofing Options Work Best in Michigan?

Written by SpringfieldMay 12, 2024

Home » Roofing

Michigan Roofing - What Roofing Options Work Best in Michigan?

The same seasons that make Michigan a fun place to live and work also create some significant roofing challenges. With many roofing options out there, how do you determine the best solution for Michigan’s climate? Many of the roofing systems that work well in other climates fall short when tested by the extreme temperatures and humidity changes experienced in Michigan. Bitter cold winters and sweltering hot summers can take their toll on a roof and create steep heating and cooling bills.

First, choose materials that can withstand extreme cold and hot climates without breaking down or absorbing moisture. Select a roofing system that has the potential to lower heating and cooling costs throughout the year. These are demands that many traditional roofing systems fail to meet in Michigan’s climate.

Stay Cool in the Summer

One of the best roofing options is a white Springfield roof , which has 86% reflectivity and helps keep the inside of a building cooler in the summer. According to Today MSNBC, using white roofing material is so effective at keeping buildings cool and reducing the “heat island effect” that many cities like New York and Philadelphia are sponsoring “cool roof” rebate programs where businesses are paid to paint their city rooftops white.

The “heat island effect” may not be as big of a concern in northern Michigan, but anyone can benefit from a cooler building during summer months. The special reflective qualities of the Springfield roof go beyond what simple white paint can provide, creating an even cooler environment all summer long by combining reflectivity with enhanced insulation.

According to non-profit group, the Cool Roof Rating Council, although reflective roofing colors and material can save money on cooling costs in the summer, this benefit has little impact on winter heating bills. This is largely due to the fact that the sun is far less intense in the winter and is not a primary heat source. A reflective roof does, however, create lower overall surface temperatures, which means the roof takes less abuse during all four seasons. A roof that experiences less overall fluctuation in temperature will maintain a better condition and protect your building longer. With a Springfield roof in place a business will spend less money on cooling in the summer, will have no increase to heating bills in the winter and the roofing materials will experience less wear and tear.

Retain Heat in the Winter

Sophisticated thermal imaging equipment can be used to determine where energy is escaping from a building. Once it is known where energy is lost, a strategic plan for the best roofing option to preserve and even capture energy can be implemented.

Carefully designed insulation and airflow systems can help minimize heat loss. More efficient heating and cooling systems can also be installed to minimize heating costs. Creative solutions, such as using solar panels to harness the sun’s light and energy can be effective in lowering your heating expenses. Springfield Commercial Roofing experts specialize in discovering missed opportunities for energy savings.

Protect Against Moisture

Water damage is a serious threat to any building that experiences four seasons. All roofing systems require some form of regular maintenance or check-ups to ensure that they are in good working condition. There is a significant advantage in selecting a waterproof roofing material to work with. Springfield Commercial Roofing has chosen to use Duro-Last roofing materials. Duro-Last materials are created from a PVC membrane and are not only watertight, but also highly resistant to punctures and ice damming. Springfield roofers use large fabricated deck sheets, which completely seal a roof’s surface meaning fewer seams where water could seep in. Custom flashings made under optimal factory controlled conditions complete this waterproof roofing system. Together these components create a proven vapor barrier to protect your building investment. In many cases these highly durable roofing materials can be applied over an existing roof to save you time, money and eliminate environmental waste.

Want to see what creative roofing options Springfield Commercial Roofing can find for you? Call us at 231-263-5300. You can also visit our website at springfieldroof.com.

Snow, Ice, and Your Roof: Your Guide to Winter

Written by admin-359123210October 8, 2023

Home » Roofing

Winter Roof Readiness: Your Guide to Protecting Your Business

Winter brings snow-covered beauty, holiday cheer, and a fresh start. But for business owners, it also brings roofing challenges.
Heavy snow, ice buildup, and freezing temperatures can seriously impact your roof. Let’s walk through what you need to know.

The Real Impact of Snow and Ice

Snow adds weight. Ice causes leaks and hazards. Combined, they can weaken your roof and threaten your building’s structure. Act early to avoid costly repairs.

Start with a Fall Roof Inspection

Schedule a professional roof inspection before winter hits. Catch problems like leaks, loose fasteners, or cracked membranes before snow makes them worse. Routine inspections prevent small issues from becoming emergencies.

Stay on Top of Cleaning and Maintenance

Clear gutters and downspouts to prevent ice dams. Remove debris from the roof to allow proper drainage. Fix minor damage now to avoid major winter problems later.

Snow Removal Matters

Too much snow = too much weight. Know your roof’s weight limits. Hire a trusted snow removal service and have a plan in place. Never let snow pile up beyond safe levels.

Prevent Ice Dams Before They Start

Ice dams block melting snow from draining off the roof. Water backs up, leaks inside, and causes interior damage. Insulation and proper ventilation help prevent this.

Invest in the Right Roofing System

The right system handles snow, ice, and freezing temps. We install high-quality roofs with strong insulation and waterproof membranes. Our specialties include flat roofs, low-slope systems, and metal retrofit roofs that reduce tear-offs and resist buildup.

Prepare for Emergencies

Even well-maintained roofs can face winter surprises. Have a response plan. Know who to call, and set aside emergency repair funds. Quick action limits damage and downtime.

Educate Your Team

Most staff never think about the roof—until there’s a problem. Train your team on how to spot warning signs. Make sure they know snow removal procedures and how to report issues. Safety matters. Use tools like our Springfield Smart Ladder Rests for secure, fall-protected roof access in any weather.

Don’t Wait Until It’s Too Late

Winter will test your roof. Prepare now to protect your building, your people, and your bottom line. Need help getting winter-ready? Call Springfield Commercial Roofing at 231-263-5300 and let our experts take it from here.

Nick Jacqmain, CEO of Springfield Commercial Roofing in Traverse City, Michigan

On Top of Northern Michigan with Nick Jacqmain of Springfield Roofing

Written by SpringfieldSeptember 12, 2023

As seen in the September 2023 issue of the Traverse City Business News.

Finding the right commercial roofing contractor in Traverse City, Michigan isn’t always easy. Commercial roofs rarely get attention until something goes wrong, and by then the cost and stress can be significant. Springfield Roofing has spent years changing that experience for business owners across Northern Michigan, from Traverse City and Petoskey to Cadillac and beyond.

We sat down with Nick Jacqmain, CEO and President of Springfield Commercial Roofing, to talk about how they approach commercial roof replacement, what makes their process different, and why they recently expanded to serve Central Michigan from a second location in Big Rapids.

What to Expect When You Start a Commercial Roofing Project

Whether you manage a manufacturing facility, a school, or an office building, you probably don’t spend much time thinking about your roof. And that’s completely normal.

“It’s not exciting, and they only notice it if it’s not working properly,” Nick says. “It’s sort of like that referee in a sports game: you only notice them if they’re doing a bad job.”

That mindset shapes how Springfield approaches every new client relationship. Rather than adding to the anxiety of a major building expense, the team focuses on bringing clarity and calm to the process.

“Customers don’t need help to get excited during that process. They’re already worried about it,” Nick explains. “So we hope to bring the temperature down and explain what the future is going to look like and how positive that will be for them. They’re not as interested in our company’s history. They want to know what the finish line looks like and the fastest route to get there.”

Why Springfield Focuses Exclusively on Commercial Roofing

Springfield’s decision to specialize entirely in commercial work is intentional and sets them apart from most roofing contractors in Northern Michigan.

“Before my time here we did more residential work,” Nick says. “As the former owner grew the company and secured more and more commercial accounts, it became hard to be competitive in both arenas.”

Today, Springfield’s systems and processes are built around commercial applications. Their model focuses on building relationships through repair work on existing roofs, then handling full replacement when the time comes.

“We build most of our relationships by doing repair work on existing roofs until it is time to replace the roof with a new one. This model has helped us align ourselves with the right customers and growth opportunities,” Nick says.

Springfield also identified a natural extension of that commercial focus into equipment transport, helping customers with the delivery of heavy equipment like forklifts and scissor lifts to commercial facilities and job sites.

Expanding Commercial Roofing Services to Central Michigan

In 2023, Springfield opened a second location in Big Rapids to better serve the Central Michigan market, a region Nick says has been underserved for years.

“We’ve been servicing central Michigan for years, and while we have some significant clients down there, the area as a whole is underserved,” he says.

The expansion was also about community investment, not just market reach.

“We really want to not only service the area but invest in it, too, by bringing jobs to the area, supporting local events, organizations, and nonprofits, and giving back to our customers and the communities they live and work in.”

Where Springfield Roofing Works: Traverse City and Northern Michigan

While Traverse City and the surrounding Northern Michigan region remain the heart of Springfield’s business, their crews work well beyond that footprint.

“Seventy-five percent of our business is between Cadillac and the Harbor Springs/Petoskey area,” Nick says, “but we do have crews working in Lapeer, a big client in Lansing, and a project coming up on Mackinac Island.”

That reach reflects both the strength of their client relationships and their ability to handle projects of any size, from a small local business to a large regional facility.

The Culture Behind Springfield's Commercial Roofing Team

Nick is candid about the labor challenges that have affected the construction industry broadly, and about what Springfield has done differently to attract and keep good people.

“Like most businesses, it was at a crisis level for a while there,” he says. “But we learned we had to improve everything over the past two years. Not just raise hourly wages and throw money at a problem, but make this a desirable place to spend the day-to-day.”

That commitment to culture runs deeper than compensation. Nick credits Springfield’s former owner, Terry, with establishing a workplace philosophy that treats every team member equally, regardless of whether they work in the field or the office.

“Unfortunately in construction, there’s a tendency to put people in two classes: the workers and the office people. Terry did a wonderful job erasing that line, and I’ve made it my goal to ensure we continue that legacy.”

Nick describes his leadership approach as servant leadership, a philosophy shaped by mentors throughout his career and one he actively works to pass on.

“The only people who don’t make it here are those who just don’t get that.”

Ready to Talk About Your Commercial Roof in Northern Michigan?

Springfield Roofing serves commercial property owners throughout Northern and Central Michigan, including Traverse City, Petoskey, Cadillac, Charlevoix, Gaylord, and Big Rapids.

If you’re ready to start the conversation about your commercial roof, we’ll make the process straightforward. Request a free roof assessment or call us at (231) 263-5300.

Nick Jacqmain is the CEO and President of Springfield Commercial Roofing and Transport. He joined the Springfield team in 2009 as a project manager and purchased the business in January 2018. Springfield is a Duro-Last Platinum Contractor serving commercial properties of all sizes across Michigan.

White Duro-Last commercial roofing membrane installed on a flat roof in Michigan

White Commercial Roofing in Michigan: Energy Savings and Sustainability with Springfield Roofing

Written by SpringfieldAugust 2, 2023

With scorching temperatures across the board in recent summers, your business may be feeling the heat, both figuratively and literally. A white commercial roof can help solve that problem.

For Michigan business owners, a white roofing system is more than just a color choice. It is a practical, long-term investment. It reduces energy costs, extends the life of your roof, and contributes to a more sustainable building. Here is why it makes sense for commercial properties across Northern and Central Michigan.

1. Tackling Heat Waves Head-On

With temperatures off the charts in recent summers, keeping your building cool can be an uphill battle. Thankfully, Springfield has a solution specifically designed to address this challenge. By adopting a white roof, you can shield your business against intense heat. It can reflect sunlight away from the building, maintaining cooler indoor temperatures, creating a more comfortable work environment, and easing the burden on your HVAC system.

Traditional dark roofing materials absorb a significant amount of solar heat, which transfers directly into your building. A white reflective membrane works in the opposite way, bouncing that heat back before it ever enters the structure. For Michigan businesses operating through warm summers, that difference can translate into meaningful reductions in cooling costs month after month.

2. How White Roofs Perform in Michigan's Climate

One question Michigan business owners often ask is whether a white roof makes sense given the state’s cold winters. It is a fair consideration. The short answer is yes, and here is why.

While white roofs are most recognized for their summer cooling benefits, they also hold up exceptionally well through Michigan’s freeze-thaw cycles when installed with a quality membrane system. The key is the material. A properly installed white single-ply membrane like Duro-Last is engineered to remain flexible and watertight through extreme temperature swings, heavy snow loads, and the repeated expansion and contraction that Michigan winters demand.

Additionally, white roofing systems tend to accumulate less heat-related stress over time than dark roofs, which means less thermal fatigue and a longer overall lifespan for the system.

3. Duro-Last: The Ultimate Eco-Friendly Choice

Choosing a white roof means embracing sustainability and reducing your building’s carbon footprint. When considering a white commercial roof, the Duro-Last white membrane stands out as an excellent option. Not only does it provide superior protection against the elements, but it also boasts outstanding eco-friendly features.

One notable advantage is its ability to be re-roofed over existing roofs, reducing the need for costly tear-offs and minimizing waste generation. Moreover, at the end of its lifespan, the Duro-Last white membrane can be recycled, further reducing its impact on landfills.

Duro-Last membranes also carry ENERGY STAR certification, meaning they meet federal standards for solar reflectance and thermal emittance. For Michigan businesses interested in reducing their environmental footprint or qualifying for energy efficiency incentives, that certification matters.

4. Cost-Effective and Long-Lasting Solution

Besides energy savings, the durability of a white commercial roof like the Duro-Last membrane makes it a cost-effective choice in the long run. Its ability to withstand harsh weather conditions ensures it remains in excellent condition for an extended period, reducing the need for frequent repairs or replacements.

When you factor in lower cooling costs, reduced HVAC wear, minimal maintenance requirements, and the potential to re-roof over an existing system without a costly tear-off, the total value of a white commercial roof becomes clear. Many Michigan business owners find that the long-term savings significantly offset the initial investment.

Is a White Commercial Roof Right for Your Michigan Building?

The benefits of white commercial roofing are well established, but every building is different. Factors like your roof’s current condition, slope, existing substrate, and your building’s energy usage all play a role in determining whether a white membrane system is the right fit.

Springfield’s team works with commercial property owners across Northern and Central Michigan to assess their specific situation and recommend the right solution. Whether you manage a manufacturing facility, a retail space, a school, or an office building, we can walk you through your options and help you understand what a white roofing system could mean for your energy bills and your bottom line.

By choosing to go green with a white roof, businesses can effectively combat rising temperatures, reduce energy consumption, and lower HVAC cooling costs. The Duro-Last white membrane, with its impressive reflectivity and recyclability, proves to be an eco-friendly and durable option that offers long-term value.

Contact Springfield today to get started.

Springfield Roofing is a Duro-Last Platinum Contractor serving commercial properties across Northern and Central Michigan, including Traverse City, Petoskey, Cadillac, Charlevoix, Gaylord, and Big Rapids.

Planning for Your Spring Roofing Project

Planning Your Spring Roofing Project

Written by SpringfieldApril 2, 2023

Home » Roofing

Planning Your Spring Roofing Project

Spring is just around the corner. This means it’s time to start thinking about your commercial roofing needs for the upcoming season. Whether you’re looking to repair or replace, proper planning and preparation are key to ensuring a successful project.

Tips to Help You Plan For Your Spring Commercial Roofing Project

Assess your roof’s condition.

Before you start any roofing project, it’s important to assess the current condition of your roof. This is especially true after a long Michigan winter. This can include inspecting for any damage or leaks that may need to be addressed before your project begins.

Set your budget.

Work with your team to determine how much your business can spend on its upcoming roofing project. Costs to consider include the cost of materials, labor, permits, and any other expenses that may be associated with the project. During budget planning, consider consulting a certified tax specialist to learn about the number of ways to deduct your new roofing system from your taxes immediately.

Contact a qualified commercial roofing company immediately.

Once you know your facility needs and budget, contact a qualified commercial roofing company like Springfield to begin conversations about your project immediately. Qualified roofing companies, especially those with a long history of satisfied customers, typically begin booking jobs before the season begins. To ensure your project is completed safely, efficiently, and timely, start a dialogue with a qualified company as soon as possible.

Choose the right materials.

When it comes to commercial roofing, there are a variety of materials to choose from. Each has its advantages and disadvantages, so choosing the one that best fits your needs and budget is important. Springfield offers a number of re-roof solutions that are designed to fit and serve your business.

Plan for maintenance.

Once your project is complete, the work isn’t over. It’s important to plan for ongoing maintenance to keep your roof in good condition. This includes regular inspections, cleaning, debris removal, and repairs as needed. Springfield can work with you to create a maintenance program that suits your business needs – and provides emergency response for urgent roofing problems.

By planning ahead, you can get the most out of your investment and keep your building safe and secure for years to come. At Springfield, we know every roof is different. Our team of experts is standing by to design a perfect, custom solution for your building – contact us today to get started.

3 Tips to Prepare Your Commercial Roof for Spring

Written by SpringfieldMarch 29, 2023

Home » Roofing

3 Tips to Prepare Your Commercial Roof for Spring

It’s no secret that America’s beloved (and definitely qualified) groundhog meteorologist saw his shadow and winter is here for a bit longer than we all might enjoy. However, it’s time to start thinking warm thoughts and preparing your commercial roof for spring. Consider these three tips as you head into preparing your business for those warmer months.

Springfield Tip #1: Conduct a Thorough Inspection

Before starting any work, it’s important to conduct a safe and thorough inspection of your commercial roof to identify any areas that may be prone to debris accumulation. Once you’ve identified these areas, you will need to determine if you can safely remove the debris and/or clear drainage systems to ensure proper water flow.

Springfield Tip #2: Clearing Debris

Damp leaves are putting your commercial flat roof and drainage system at risk. If you can safely remove debris that may have accumulated over the winter months, you should do so. Winter debris, such as leaves, branches, and other various items, can block your drainage systems and cause water to accumulate on your commercial roof. If left unchecked, this can often lead to leaks, water damage, and even structural damage.

Springfield Tip #3: Address Any Damage

At Springfield, we always say, “A well-maintained roof lasts twice as long as those that do not.” It’s no secret that Northern Michigan winters are tough on your commercial roof between the elements and temperature fluctuation. Even the smallest moisture in just the tiniest place can cause severe damage if left unattended. Repair any leaks and address any issues with flashing or other roofing components – your roof (and wallet) will thank you.

While these tips are a great way to spring into seasonal roof maintenance, nothing beats a professional inspection. Springfield understands the problems that can be caused by a Michigan winter, and more importantly, can identify potential issues that may have gone unnoticed. Call our team today to see how our roofing experts will ensure your roof is in good condition and ready to withstand the challenges of the upcoming season.