Roof Consulting Across Chicagoland

TPO roof membrane cut short along the perimeter, allowed wind-driven rain to enter the roof and walls. 30-unit brick building, DesPlaines, IL

We evaluate the condition of the roofs and estimate the remaining useful life of residential and commercial low-slope roofs (flat roofs) of the following roof membrane types:

• Modified bitumen (smooth) – silver, if Aluminum Silver Coating has been applied, black if not
• Modified bitumen (granulated) – light or dark grey, nubby
• Thermoplastic polyolefin (TPO) – white
• Ethylene Propylene Diene Monomer (EPDM) – black rubber

Having regular roof evaluations performed is important for budgeting. Roof replacement is expensive and all roofs types have a limited life span, typically 15-20 years depending on the membrane type and how well it was installed and maintained.



We determine the condition of all the roof components, including the membrane, seams, sheathing, roof to wall connections and roof termination, ventilation and penetration boots and pitch pans, scuppers, gutters and central drains.

Condensation is naturally produced under all roof membrane types. We look for membrane wrinkling, and ballooning which indicates condensation accumulation. 

We also evaluate reasons for ponding which can indicate a structural issue in a roof system, including improper roof pitch toward a scupper or central drain.

We also recommend reinforcement or replacement of water damaged roof trusses and we design re-configurations of roof systems drainage planes.

We also address issues created by Recreational Decks, Door integration into roofs, AC unit platforms and Skylights.

We provide easy to read, plain English reports and cost ranges.

Solution - Flat Roof Perimeter Ventilation

Venting Flat Roofs with Capstones on the Parapets