Commercial Roof Replacement
Replacing a commercial roof is a capital project, not a repair. Planned well, it happens on your schedule. Planned late, it happens after the leak that damaged your inventory. GemSco helps you plan it.
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Signs it is time to plan a replacement
Repairs every season in different parts of the roof.
Wet insulation found in several areas under the membrane.
Seams, flashing and coatings failing across the roof, not in one spot.
Large areas of ponding water that sagging decking keeps bringing back.
Extensive hail or wind damage over most of the surface.
Plans to add solar or heavy rooftop equipment on an aging roof.
Decisions that shape the project
Tear-off or recover
A full tear-off removes everything down to the deck. A recover adds a new system over the existing roof when conditions and building codes allow. Wet insulation underneath usually rules out a recover.
Roof system
Single-ply membranes, modified bitumen, metal or another system, chosen for the slope, the building's use and how long you plan to own it.
Insulation
A replacement is the moment to update roof insulation, which affects energy use for as long as the roof lasts.
Drainage
Correcting slope, drains and scuppers so the new roof does not inherit old ponding problems.
Rooftop equipment
Planning how HVAC units, vents and solar will be handled, lifted or reinstalled during the work.
How GemSco plans a commercial replacement
Inspection
We inspect the roof, check for wet areas, review drains and flashing, and look at the deck from inside where possible.
Photos and findings
We document the condition of the roof with photos to support the decision for owners, managers and lenders.
Written estimate and options
A written estimate with the recommended system and scope, and alternatives when more than one approach makes sense.
Schedule and logistics
We agree on timing, material staging, site access and how tenants or customers will be protected.
Installation and cleanup
We install the new system in phases that keep the building protected from weather, and clean the site at the end.
Replacing a roof on an occupied building
Most commercial roofs are replaced while the building is in use. That means the old roof is opened only as fast as the new one can be closed, so the interior is never left exposed overnight. Noise, odors from some materials, crane lifts and dumpster placement are planned with you in advance, and tenants get notice before work starts above them.
Weather matters in Texas. Rain and summer heat both affect when and how fast certain systems can be installed, so a realistic schedule leaves room for both. We review the plan with you before work begins and keep you informed as it moves.
Budget and financing
The written estimate breaks down the scope so you can compare it with other bids line by line: removal, deck repairs, insulation, membrane or panels, flashing, drainage and equipment work. A low bid that leaves out deck repairs or flashing details is not a lower price, just a later bill. Financing is available; see our roof financing page for what to compare in any financing offer.
If the replacement follows storm damage and you plan to file with your insurance company, coverage depends on the policy and on the insurer's decision. See roof insurance claims. If the roof still has life, a targeted commercial roof repair may be the better step for now, and commercial roofing covers all our services for businesses.
Commercial roof replacement across Texas
GemSco is family owned, fully licensed and insured, with more than 20 years of experience and elite contractor status with Owens Corning and GAF. We replace commercial roofs in Houston, DFW, Austin, San Antonio and surrounding areas, including Dallas and Fort Worth. Estimates are free.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I know if a recover is possible instead of a tear-off?
It depends on the condition of the existing roof, how many roof layers are already on the building, the deck and what local building codes allow. Wet insulation is a common reason a recover does not work, because trapping moisture under a new roof causes problems later. An inspection answers this before you compare bids.
What is the best time of year to replace a commercial roof?
Many owners prefer drier months, but the better answer is before the roof forces the decision. Planning ahead lets you choose the timing around your operations and weather instead of reacting after a leak. We build the schedule with weather in mind and adjust when needed.
Should we replace the roof before installing solar?
If the roof is aging, usually yes. Panels can stay on a roof for a long time, and removing and reinstalling them later adds cost. Replacing or confirming the roof first means both systems start together. See our solar panel removal and reinstallation page for how that work is handled.
Can tenants stay in the building during replacement?
In most cases, yes. Work is phased so each section is closed and watertight before the next one is opened. We coordinate notices, access, parking and safety around entrances with you or your property manager. Some activities, such as crane lifts, may need short, scheduled restrictions.
We’re Here to Help!
GemSco Roofing & Solar serves Houston, DFW, Austin, San Antonio and surrounding areas. We’re family owned and fully licensed and insured.