A job well done is a job that stands the test of time. This is particularly true in commercial roofing, where upfront steps to future proof a roofing assembly keep clients happy and save contractors from costly callbacks and re-work.
“The most frustrating type of roof damage is one you could have prevented,” says [rep] with Georgia-Pacific Building Products. “Doing it right the first time may require up-front investment, but it pays off in the long run.”
Getting It Right with Gypsum Roof Board
There are strategies to avoid doubling back on recently completed jobs. Among them is ensuring the right materials are implemented from the get-go. With this in mind, [rep] says it is a mistake to value engineer gypsum roof boards out of a job: “Gypsum roof boards are an investment in the roof’s future. With that on the assembly, you know that the project will be well protected against the most common roof risks and your team won’t be getting calls to come back for repairs any time soon.”
The advantages of gypsum cover board are well documented. In testing Georgia-Pacific’s DensDeck® Roof Boards, for example, the material held up to double the pressure compared to roof assemblies without a cover board. Moreover, DensDeck® Roof Board’s non-combustible gypsum core is designed to slow the spread of smoke and fire, providing a literal layer of added safety.
The strength of a gypsum cover board also makes it an ally against extreme Canadian weather. DensDeck® StormX™ Prime Roof Board, for another example, is specially designed to stand up to extreme weather, such as hailstorms, and the puncture risks they present.
Ensuring that your roof is well-prepared to withstand the challenges and demands of the future is about more than preventing rooftop damage. It’s also about providing a foundation for future add-ons and enhancements. Here again, industry-tested gypsum roof boards provide that degree of versatility.
“We know clients want to have the option of installing HVAC equipment, building upgrades or even solar panels. That’s why our DensDeck Roof Boards come in three performance options based on the design intent,” says [rep].
Making the case for DensDeck
Gypsum roof boards are not specifically required in roofing assemblies. As such, they can be a hard sell for project owners, even if they have been proven to help prevent potential major expenses of roof repairs, replacement and overwhelming damage that threatens the integrity of your projects. For this reason, contractors may find value in taking extra time with the building owner to discuss the benefits and long-term cost savings of including a cover board like DensDeck Roof Board, as well as the risks of value engineering it out of the plans, which could lead to:
- Risk of puncture damage when rooftop equipment (e.g., HVAC) is installed after a roof is completed.
- Enhanced risk of fire with the addition of solar panels.
- Lack of adequate substrate to handle the load of a green roof.
- Damage caused by harsh weather, like severe hailstorms.
- Wear and tear as a result of excessive foot traffic.
“Sometimes contractors will have questions themselves,” adds [rep]. “That’s why we have a team of Building Envelope Specialists who can discuss your questions and help justify the value of keeping a gypsum cover board in your roof assembly.”
For more information about Georgia-Pacific and DensDeck Roof Boards, or to speak with a gypsum roof board expert, visit here.
