Unicoat Roofing Completes Full Roof Replacement for St. Petersburg Apartment Buildings

Unicoat Roofing has successfully completed the replacement of roofs on three separate apartment buildings in St. Petersburg, Florida. The project, covering a total area of 44,500 square feet, presented unique challenges due to the deteriorating condition of the existing modified bitumen roofing system. Over the course of 60 days, Unicoat addressed both roofing and structural concerns, ensuring that each building was restored to optimal condition, in compliance with the latest Florida Building Code.

Project Overview: Roofing and Structural Challenges

The existing roofs of the apartment buildings were covered with a modified bitumen cap sheet adhered directly to plywood decking. Over time, the cap sheet began to fail, and soft spots were discovered in several areas of the decking. A moisture scan, performed with a Tramex Dec Scanner, confirmed that the roofs had a moisture content exceeding 20%. Under Florida Building Code, this level of moisture necessitates a full tear-off and replacement rather than a repair.

Additionally, sections of the plywood decking had sustained significant damage. These areas required replacement to restore the structural integrity of the roofs before the installation of the new roofing system.

Complete Roof Replacement: NCFI Spray Foam and Sherwin-Williams Silicone

To ensure a long-lasting solution, Unicoat Roofing began by removing the deteriorated modified bitumen cap sheet. The team then replaced all damaged plywood sections and reinforced the decking with additional nails to bring the structures up to current code requirements. This additional step was critical in ensuring the long-term stability and durability of the buildings’ roofs.

Once the structural issues were addressed, Unicoat applied a 1.5-inch layer of NCFI Spray Polyurethane Foam (SPF) across the entire roof surface. This layer of foam not only provides insulation but also corrects the slope of the roof, directing rainwater toward the external gutters and eliminating the risk of water ponding. The central sections of the roofs received extra foam to enhance drainage efficiency.

After the foam application, the roofs were primed with SPF primer and coated with Sherwin-Williams Uniflex High Solid Silicone. This white silicone topcoat offers several advantages, including UV protection, waterproofing, and long-term durability, ensuring the roofs are well-protected against Florida’s harsh weather conditions.

Benefits and Project Outcome

The full roof replacement was completed in 60 days, providing the apartment buildings with a robust roofing system designed to withstand environmental stressors for years to come. The new roofing system delivers superior protection against water intrusion, UV damage, and temperature fluctuations.

By utilizing the NCFI Spray Foam and Sherwin-Williams silicone coating, Unicoat has not only addressed the immediate issues but also improved the energy efficiency of the buildings. The white silicone top layer reflects sunlight, reducing the amount of heat absorbed by the roof and helping lower cooling costs for tenants.

Moreover, the foam layer adds an extra layer of insulation, contributing to a more energy-efficient living environment. This project demonstrates Unicoat Roofing’s expertise in managing complex roof replacements while adhering to stringent building codes and providing long-term solutions for their clients.

Conclusion: Unicoat’s Commitment to Quality

The St. Petersburg apartment building project highlights Unicoat Roofing’s dedication to delivering exceptional results even in the face of challenging conditions. By replacing the damaged roofs and upgrading the building infrastructure, Unicoat has ensured that these apartment buildings are not only safe and compliant but also more efficient and durable.

With the combination of advanced materials and precise workmanship, Unicoat Roofing continues to be a trusted name in the roofing industry, offering clients reliable and sustainable solutions for their commercial and residential properties.

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