Is your commercial property in need of a new roof or repairs? Finding the right roofing partner in Calgary doesn’t have to be overwhelming. At Silverback Torch On Systems, we want to help you make an informed choice, even if you don’t choose us.
What Makes a Great Commercial Roofing Company?
When you’re looking for the best commercial roofing companies in Calgary, these are the must-have qualities:
1. Proven Local Experience
Look for companies with:
- At least 10+ years serving Calgary businesses
- Experience handling Alberta’s unique weather challenges
- A portfolio of completed projects similar to yours
Calgary’s climate presents unique challenges for commercial roofing. From heavy snowfall and freeze-thaw cycles in winter to intense UV exposure and potential hailstorms in summer, only contractors with extensive local experience understand how to design and install systems that truly perform in our environment.
A reputable contractor will happily share photos and case studies from previous projects. Ask to see examples of buildings similar to yours, especially if you have unique features like rooftop equipment or complex drainage requirements.
2. Proper Certifications and Insurance
Never work with contractors who can’t show you:
- Current liability insurance (ask to see it!)
- WCB coverage for all workers
- Industry certifications and training
Insurance protects both your business and the workers on your property. Liability coverage should be substantial – at least $2 million for commercial projects. Worker’s Compensation coverage ensures you won’t be liable for any injuries that occur during your project.
Beyond basic business requirements, the best industrial roofing contractors invest in ongoing training and certification programs. Ask about manufacturer certifications, which indicate the contractor has been trained specifically on the products they’ll be installing on your roof.
3. Specialized Commercial Knowledge
Commercial roofs are different from residential ones. Your contractor should:
- Specialize in flat roofing systems
- Understand commercial building codes
- Have experience with your specific roofing material
Commercial roofing in Calgary requires specialized knowledge of building codes, fire ratings, and energy efficiency requirements. A contractor who primarily works on residential sloped roofs won’t have the expertise necessary for commercial flat roofing applications.
Ask potential contractors what percentage of their work is commercial versus residential. Ideally, you want a company that focuses primarily or exclusively on commercial projects.
Red Flags to Watch For
Not all industrial roofing contractors deliver the same quality. Be cautious if you notice:
- Unusually low bids (quality materials cost money)
- Pressure to sign immediately
- No physical business address in Calgary
- Limited or no online presence/reviews
- Unwillingness to provide references
A bid that comes in significantly lower than others likely indicates corners being cut somewhere – either in material quality, workmanship, or insurance coverage. Quality commercial roofing materials are expensive, and proper installation is time-consuming. If the price seems too good to be true, it probably is.
Legitimate Calgary flat roofing companies maintain proper offices, carry appropriate insurance, and have established relationships with suppliers and manufacturers. They should be willing to provide documentation of all of these upon request.
Questions Every Business Owner Should Ask
Before hiring flat roof contractors in Calgary, ask these questions:
- “How long have you been installing commercial roofs in Calgary?”
- “Can you provide references from similar businesses?”
- “What warranty do you offer on materials and labor?”
- “Do you handle permits and inspections?”
- “What maintenance will my roof need after installation?”
- “How do you handle unexpected issues that arise during the project?”
- “Will you provide a detailed written estimate and contract?”
- “Who will supervise my project, and how often will they be on-site?”
- “What steps do you take to minimize disruption to my business operations?”
- “How do you ensure the safety of your workers and my employees during installation?”
The answers to these questions will give you valuable insight into how the contractor operates and whether they’re the right fit for your project.
Why Maintenance Matters
A commercial roof is an investment that needs protection. Regular commercial roof maintenance:
- Extends your roof’s life by up to 10 years
- Prevents small issues from becoming major repairs
- Maintains your warranty coverage
- Saves you money in the long run
- Provides documentation of roof condition for potential buyers if you sell your property
Many commercial roofing warranties actually require regular professional maintenance. Without it, you may find your warranty void just when you need it most. The best commercial roofing companies offer maintenance programs that include scheduled inspections and preventative care.
A good maintenance program includes:
- Bi-annual professional inspections
- Cleaning of drainage systems
- Examination of all penetration points and flashing
- Documentation of roof condition with photos
- Minor repairs before they become major problems
The cost of a maintenance program is minimal compared to emergency repairs or premature replacement. Most Calgary businesses find they save thousands of dollars over the life of their roof by implementing a regular maintenance schedule.
Comparing Quotes Effectively
When you receive quotes from multiple flat roof contractors in Calgary, look beyond the bottom line. A comprehensive quote should include:
- Detailed scope of work
- Specific materials to be used (including manufacturer and product names)
- Timeline for completion
- Payment schedule
- Warranty information for both materials and labor
- Process for handling change orders or unexpected issues
- Clean-up procedures
- Ongoing maintenance recommendations
If any of these elements are missing, ask for clarification before proceeding. Comparing quotes based solely on price can lead to disappointing results and unexpected costs down the road.
Need Help With Your Commercial Roof?
Whether you need a complete replacement or just want to ensure your current roof is in good shape, Silverback Torch On Systems is here to help. Our team of Calgary flat roofing experts can assess your property and provide honest recommendations.
With decades of combined experience in commercial roofing installation and maintenance, we understand the unique challenges Calgary businesses face. Our commitment to quality materials, professional installation, and excellent customer service has made us one of the most trusted names in commercial roofing near you.
Contact us today for a no-obligation roof inspection and discover why so many Calgary businesses trust us with their roofing needs.
