New Orleans Commercial Flat Roofing
Built for Hurricanes, Humidity, and the Long Haul
Commercial flat roofs in New Orleans face conditions that would destroy roofing systems designed for other climates. Between 60+ inches of annual rainfall, humidity levels that keep vapor pressure pushing inward year-round, UV exposure that degrades membranes at double the rate of northern climates, and hurricane winds that test every fastener pattern—your roof assembly needs to be designed for this specific environment. We build flat roofs that acknowledge these realities rather than ignore them.
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How much does commercial flat roofing cost in New Orleans?
New Orleans commercial flat roofing typically runs $7-16 per square foot installed, reflecting the more demanding assembly requirements for our climate. TPO membrane systems cost $7-11/sq ft, PVC (superior for humid climates) $9-14/sq ft, and modified bitumen systems $8-12/sq ft. A 20,000 square foot flat roof replacement with properly detailed hurricane-rated TPO assembly typically runs $160,000-$240,000. These prices reflect assemblies designed for Climate Zone 2A conditions—including proper vapor retarders, adequate slope for our rainfall, and wind uplift ratings appropriate for Louisiana. Cheaper installations exist but typically skip the details that matter here.
- TPO membrane systems: $7-11 per square foot installed
- PVC membrane (best for humidity): $9-14 per square foot installed
- Modified bitumen (SBS recommended): $8-12 per square foot installed
- KEE-reinforced PVC: $10-16 per square foot installed
- Hurricane-rated assemblies cost 15-25% more but are essential
- Proper vapor retarder placement critical in hot-humid climates
Why New Orleans Flat Roofs Fail—and How to Prevent It
The Building Science Behind Flat Roof Performance in Hot-Humid Climates
New Orleans sits in Climate Zone 2A (hot-humid), which creates fundamentally different conditions than most of the country. Flat roof assemblies that work in Dallas, Atlanta, or even Houston often fail here because designers don't account for our specific vapor drive direction, extreme UV exposure, and rainfall intensity. Understanding these factors is essential for specifying a roof that will actually perform.
Vapor Drive Reversal
Impact: In most of the US, moisture moves outward from heated interior spaces in winter. In New Orleans, the dominant vapor drive is inward—from the hot, humid exterior toward air-conditioned interiors. This is true for 8-10 months of the year. A vapor retarder placed on the wrong side of the assembly (interior face of insulation) will trap moisture in the roof, leading to saturated insulation, deck rot, and premature membrane failure. We've torn off roofs less than 10 years old that were waterlogged because the original contractor used a northern climate detail.
Our Solution: For New Orleans flat roofs, the vapor retarder belongs above the deck, below the insulation—or omitted entirely in favor of a fully-adhered system that allows drying in both directions. We specify assemblies based on ASHRAE climate zone requirements, not generic manufacturer details. The '10% rule' for Climate Zone 2 means at least 10% of total R-value should be above the deck to keep the condensation plane outside the assembly.
UV Degradation at Accelerated Rates
Impact: New Orleans receives roughly 220 sunny days per year with UV index regularly reaching 10-11 (extreme). Every 20°F increase in membrane surface temperature approximately doubles the rate of chemical degradation. A black EPDM roof in New Orleans will deteriorate twice as fast as the same roof in Chicago. Roof surface temperatures regularly exceed 170°F in summer, stressing seams, accelerating plasticizer migration in PVC, and breaking down polymer chains in all membrane types.
Our Solution: White reflective membranes are not optional here—they're essential for acceptable service life. Properly selected white TPO or PVC reduces surface temperatures by 50-70°F, cutting degradation rates roughly in half. We specify membranes with documented UV stabilizer packages designed for high-exposure installations. For maximum longevity, consider Protected Membrane Roof (PMR) assemblies where insulation covers and protects the membrane from direct UV exposure.
60+ Inches Annual Rainfall
Impact: New Orleans averages 64 inches of rain annually—double what most of the country receives. We also get intense rainfall rates during tropical systems: 2-4 inches per hour is common. Flat roofs must drain this volume quickly or face ponding, overloaded structure, and accelerated membrane deterioration. Code requires drainage within 48 hours; our climate demands faster.
Our Solution: Minimum slope of ¼ inch per foot (2%) is essential—the old 'flat roof' terminology is misleading. We design drainage to handle 4+ inch/hour rainfall rates, which means properly sized scuppers, internal drains, or gutters. Tapered insulation systems create positive slope across the entire roof surface. Overflow drains or scuppers are mandatory—primary drains alone aren't sufficient if they clog during a tropical downpour. Cricket and saddle details direct water away from penetrations and toward drains.
Hurricane Wind Uplift
Impact: Louisiana commercial roofs must resist wind speeds up to 150 mph in coastal zones. Wind uplift forces are highest at edges, corners, and perimeters—exactly where membranes are most vulnerable. Hurricane winds don't just apply pressure; they create rapid pressure cycling that works seams loose over time. Improperly attached roofs fail progressively from edges inward.
Our Solution: We design attachment patterns based on ASCE 7 wind maps and FM Global requirements for your specific building location and height. This typically means increased fastener density at perimeters and corners (FM 1-90 or higher edge ratings), fully-adhered membrane in critical areas, and edge metal designed to resist peel-back. Self-adhered vapor retarders and WRBs provide secondary water protection when the primary membrane is compromised. Parapet heights and copings must resist uplift without becoming projectiles.
Biological Growth and Ponding
Impact: Our humidity promotes algae, mold, and biological growth on any roof surface that stays damp. Ponding water isn't just a drainage problem—it's a biological incubator. Organic growth holds moisture against membranes, accelerates degradation, clogs drains, and creates slip hazards during maintenance access.
Our Solution: Eliminating ponding eliminates most biological growth. Where some ponding is unavoidable (complex roof shapes), we specify membranes with algae-resistant additives and recommend periodic cleaning. Drain maintenance is critical in New Orleans—we recommend quarterly inspections at minimum, more frequently during hurricane season.
Thermal Cycling and Seam Stress
Impact: Daily temperature swings of 40-60°F between afternoon highs and overnight lows create expansion and contraction cycles that stress membrane seams. Add the seasonal swings between 95°F summers and occasional freezing nights, and you have a demanding thermal environment. Adhesive seams (EPDM tape, TPO tape) are particularly vulnerable; they can separate under repeated cycling.
Our Solution: Heat-welded seams (TPO, PVC) dramatically outperform adhesive seams in thermal cycling. The welded seam creates a homogeneous connection stronger than the parent membrane. For EPDM installations (increasingly rare in our climate), we use hot-air welded seam tape with mechanical fastening in critical areas. Expansion joints at large roof areas and building separation joints accommodate thermal movement.
Commercial Flat Roofing Across New Orleans Building Types
New Orleans commercial building stock spans 300 years of construction, from historic warehouse districts to modern logistics facilities. Each presents distinct flat roofing challenges:
CBD & Warehouse District
Historic masonry buildings, many converted from industrial to commercial use. Original wood decks, parapets that predate modern detailing standards, drainage systems designed for different rainfall assumptions.
Historic structures require careful assessment of deck capacity—original wood decks may need reinforcement before accepting modern insulation weights. We coordinate with historic preservation requirements where applicable. Parapet details often need complete rebuilding to meet modern wind standards. Existing internal drains may be undersized; adding secondary drainage without damaging historic fabric requires creative solutions.
French Quarter Adjacent
Mixed commercial including hotels, restaurants, entertainment venues. Many buildings have flat roof sections alongside sloped portions. Extremely noise-sensitive during business hours.
Restaurant exhaust exposure is common—PVC membrane required for any roof section near kitchen exhausts (grease destroys TPO and EPDM). We coordinate with building operations to work during low-occupancy periods. Rooftop equipment (HVAC, exhaust fans) is often densely installed; proper base flashing and equipment support is critical. Many properties here should consider standing seam metal for visible sloped sections.
Central City & Uptown
Mix of retail, medical, and service businesses in 1-3 story buildings. Many modified from residential structures with limited deck structural capacity.
Lightweight assemblies often required due to structural limitations. Polyiso over gypsum cover board provides good R-value at minimal weight. These smaller buildings often have complex roof shapes requiring careful drainage planning. Access for equipment can be challenging in tight urban lots.
New Orleans East & Gentilly
Post-war commercial development, many single-story retail and warehouse buildings. Generally simpler roof geometries but often deferred maintenance since Hurricane Katrina.
Many of these buildings received post-Katrina roof repairs rather than replacements, and those repairs are now aging out. We assess whether previous repairs were done correctly (many weren't) or whether full replacement is needed. Simpler roof shapes allow efficient installation; larger footprints mean lower per-square-foot costs.
Port & Industrial
Large warehouse and logistics facilities. 50,000-500,000 square foot footprints. Often 24/7 operations with critical cargo protection requirements.
Scale is the defining factor—proper material procurement and crew scheduling is essential. These buildings often have minimal rooftop penetrations, simplifying installation. Dew point conditions inside unconditioned warehouses create interior humidity that can affect roof assembly moisture dynamics. Emergency leak response matters here; cargo damage from a single leak can exceed the entire roof cost.
Metairie & Jefferson Parish
Suburban commercial development including office parks, retail centers, and medical facilities. Generally newer construction (post-1960s) with steel or concrete decks.
More straightforward structurally than historic buildings. These properties often have good access for equipment and material staging. Multiple-building portfolios are common; we provide master service agreements for property managers with multiple locations.
New Orleans Commercial Flat Roof Costs: 2026 Market Rates
Commercial flat roof pricing in New Orleans runs higher than national averages because proper installation here requires additional details: hurricane-rated assemblies, appropriate vapor control, enhanced drainage, and materials that tolerate our climate. Here's what to budget for systems actually designed for Louisiana:
TPO (Thermoplastic Polyolefin)
$7 - $11 per sq ft installed
The workhorse membrane for most New Orleans commercial applications. White TPO provides essential reflectivity, and heat-welded seams handle thermal cycling well. We use 60-mil minimum (80-mil for high-traffic roofs). Proper New Orleans TPO installation includes appropriate vapor control, tapered insulation for drainage, and FM-rated edge details. This isn't the cheapest option on paper, but it's usually the best value for 15-25 year service life.
PVC (Polyvinyl Chloride)
$9 - $14 per sq ft installed
Premium single-ply with advantages specific to New Orleans: superior UV resistance from factory-stabilized formulations, excellent performance in high-humidity environments, and chemical resistance for restaurant/industrial applications. KEE-reinforced PVC (like Sarnafil or Duro-Last) provides the best hot-climate longevity. Higher upfront cost but often lowest lifecycle cost in our climate.
KEE-Reinforced PVC
$10 - $16 per sq ft installed
Ketone ethylene ester (KEE) provides superior UV resistance compared to standard PVC or TPO—critical for New Orleans exposure levels. Weld-on flashings from the same material create a monolithic, fully bonded system. The premium over standard PVC is typically 15-25%, but the membrane will outperform in our climate. This is our recommendation for any roof expected to perform 25+ years.
Modified Bitumen (SBS)
$8 - $12 per sq ft installed
Multi-layer asphalt system with proven New Orleans track record. SBS (styrene-butadiene-styrene) modified membranes stay flexible in our temperature range better than APP. Two or three-ply systems provide redundancy—important for hurricane damage resistance. Torch-applied installation requires proper fire watch. Can be installed over existing BUR in some cases.
Modified Bitumen (Hybrid)
$9 - $14 per sq ft installed
Combines modified bitumen base layers with cap sheet or even single-ply top layer. The multi-layer redundancy of mod bit with the reflectivity of white cap sheet. Good option for roofs with heavy equipment traffic (maintenance personnel, HVAC service).
Fluid-Applied Systems
$6 - $10 per sq ft installed
Spray or roller-applied seamless membranes. PMMA (polymethyl methacrylate) cures quickly for fast project completion. Polyurethane systems provide good adhesion and flexibility. Silicone offers excellent ponding water resistance but requires careful preparation. Best for recover over existing smooth-surfaced roofs where tear-off isn't desirable.
Protected Membrane Roof (PMR)
$12 - $18 per sq ft installed
The membrane goes on the deck, then extruded polystyrene (XPS) insulation covers and protects it, topped with ballast or pavers. The membrane never sees UV, thermal cycling, or physical damage from foot traffic. This is the gold standard for longevity in any climate, particularly beneficial in New Orleans where UV exposure destroys conventional systems. Higher upfront cost but potentially 40-50 year service life. Requires structural capacity for ballast weight.
Standing Seam Metal (Low-Slope)
$14 - $22 per sq ft installed
For slopes of 1:12 or greater. Exceptional wind resistance when properly detailed, 40-50 year service life, no membrane degradation concerns. Excellent choice for visible rooflines or where aesthetics matter. Concealed clips allow thermal movement. Hurricane-rated details are standard for Louisiana installations.
Factors Affecting Price
- 1Existing roof removal vs. recover (recovering saves 25-40% when appropriate)
- 2Structural capacity for insulation and any ballasted systems
- 3Vapor retarder requirements based on interior conditions
- 4Drainage modifications (tapered insulation, additional drains)
- 5Wind uplift rating requirements for your specific location
- 6Number and complexity of rooftop penetrations
- 7Access logistics (crane requirements for multi-story buildings)
- 8Phasing requirements for occupied buildings
Pricing reflects 2026 New Orleans market rates for properly specified assemblies. We don't quote lowest-cost installations that skip critical details—if you're comparing our pricing to significantly lower numbers, ask what's being omitted.
How We Approach Commercial Flat Roofing in New Orleans
Commercial flat roofing here requires more than just installing membrane. The process matters because the details matter—and the details are different in New Orleans than anywhere else in the country:
Initial Consultation & Goals Assessment
We start by understanding your situation: Is this reactive (you have leaks) or proactive (planning capital expenditure)? What's your expected hold period for the building? Are there operational constraints we need to work around? What's happened with this roof before?
Local Note: For New Orleans buildings with post-Katrina or post-Ida repair history, we review what was done previously. Many buildings received temporary fixes that were never properly resolved.
Comprehensive Site Assessment
Physical inspection including core samples to assess existing insulation condition and deck type. We check for ponding areas, measure drainage slopes, evaluate existing flashings and terminations, and document every rooftop penetration. For buildings with leak history, we identify where water is entering vs. where it's appearing inside.
Local Note: We specifically assess vapor retarder condition and placement—this is frequently done wrong in New Orleans, and an incorrectly placed vapor retarder can cause more problems than no vapor retarder at all.
Moisture Survey
For buildings with suspected moisture problems, we conduct infrared scanning and/or nuclear moisture testing to map wet insulation areas. There's no point installing a new membrane over waterlogged insulation—it will fail prematurely.
Local Note: New Orleans humidity makes moisture issues more common and harder to detect visually. We find significant hidden moisture damage in roughly 40% of the roofs we assess here.
Assembly Specification
Based on assessment findings, we design a complete assembly—not just membrane selection, but deck preparation, vapor control strategy, insulation type and R-value, cover board selection, membrane specification, and all flashing and termination details. We explain the reasoning behind each choice.
Local Note: We design for Climate Zone 2A requirements: vapor retarder position, minimum 10% of R-value above deck, and assemblies that can dry in both directions where possible. We also specify wind uplift ratings based on your building's location relative to Lake Pontchartrain and the Gulf.
Detailed Proposal
Written proposal with complete scope, material specifications, timeline, and pricing. We include manufacturer warranty options and explain what each warranty level actually covers. If multiple approaches are viable, we present alternatives with pros/cons.
Pre-Construction Coordination
Before starting, we meet to confirm schedule, establish communication protocols, and review any building-specific requirements. For occupied buildings, we coordinate tenant notification. For facilities with operations, we confirm sequencing that minimizes disruption.
Local Note: We review hurricane season timing—starting a project in August without a clear completion path is risky. For projects that span storm season, we ensure daily watertightness.
Deck Preparation
Remove existing materials (or prepare for recover if appropriate), repair deck damage, install vapor retarder per specification, and confirm deck is suitable for new assembly. This phase often reveals conditions that require plan adjustments.
Local Note: Historic New Orleans buildings often have wood decks that require reinforcement or complete re-decking before modern roofing can be installed. We identify this during assessment but sometimes find additional issues during tear-off.
Insulation & Cover Board Installation
Install tapered insulation system to create positive drainage, then cover board to protect insulation and provide stable membrane substrate. Proper insulation installation is as critical as membrane installation—poorly fastened or gapped insulation creates thermal bridges and wind uplift vulnerabilities.
Local Note: We typically specify polyiso insulation with gypsum cover board (DensDeck or similar) for most New Orleans applications. For roofs with significant foot traffic, we add a second cover board layer.
Membrane Installation
Install membrane per manufacturer specifications with heat-welded seams (for TPO/PVC) or torch/mop application (for modified bitumen). Field seams are continuous; every penetration, termination, and edge detail is executed per specification. Our crews are factory-certified in the systems we install.
Local Note: Seam welding in New Orleans humidity requires attention to dew point—welding on damp membrane creates poor seams. We schedule welding operations based on morning conditions, often starting after dew burns off.
Flashing & Termination Details
Flashings at walls, curbs, equipment, and penetrations are the most failure-prone areas of any flat roof. We install pre-fabricated corners, pipe boots, and edge metal per FM and manufacturer requirements. Every termination is mechanically secured and sealed.
Local Note: We use self-adhered membrane base flashings rather than mechanically-attached only details at parapets—this provides secondary water protection if primary flashing is compromised during hurricanes.
Quality Verification
Continuous oversight during installation plus final walkthrough and testing. We flood-test flat roofs to verify watertight installation before project close-out. Any deficiencies are corrected before we leave the site.
Documentation & Warranty Registration
Complete close-out package including as-built documentation, manufacturer warranty certificates (registered), photos, maintenance recommendations, and emergency contact information. We register your warranty with the manufacturer—unregistered warranties are harder to claim.
Flat Roof Systems: Honest Assessment for New Orleans Conditions
Every membrane type has trade-offs. Here's our straight assessment of what actually performs in New Orleans—and what doesn't. Some recommendations differ from what you'll hear in other markets because our climate is different:
TPO (Thermoplastic Polyolefin)
Why for New Orleans
TPO has become the default commercial flat roof membrane nationwide, and it works well in New Orleans if properly specified. White TPO reflects solar radiation, reducing membrane surface temperature by 50-70°F compared to black EPDM—this dramatically extends service life in our UV-intense environment. Heat-welded seams handle thermal cycling better than adhesive seams. The key is specifying quality: we use 60-mil membrane minimum (80-mil for higher traffic), reinforced with polyester scrim, and from manufacturers with documented UV stabilizer packages.
Best For
Most general commercial applications: office, retail, warehouse, multi-family
Considerations
Not all TPO is equal. Cheaper formulations (some overseas manufacturers) have failed rapidly in high-UV markets. We specify TPO from manufacturers with proven hot-climate track records. Seam quality depends entirely on installer skill—automatic welders produce more consistent seams than hand welders, and we use both depending on location. TPO is not chemically resistant; it fails near kitchen exhausts and industrial fume exposure.
PVC (Polyvinyl Chloride)
Why for New Orleans
PVC has natural advantages for New Orleans: better UV resistance than TPO when properly formulated, excellent performance in high-humidity environments, and chemical resistance that handles restaurant and industrial exposure. The heat-welded seams are as strong or stronger than TPO. PVC's traditional weakness—plasticizer migration over time—has been largely solved in modern formulations, and the remaining migration is actually slower in hot climates than cold ones (counter-intuitive but documented).
Best For
Restaurants and food service, manufacturing with chemical exposure, any application prioritizing longevity
Considerations
Cost runs 20-30% higher than TPO. Worth the premium for restaurant roofs (required for areas near exhausts) and for owners prioritizing longest service life. Standard PVC membranes still have UV limitations; for maximum performance in New Orleans, specify KEE-reinforced PVC (see below).
KEE-Reinforced PVC (Sarnafil, Duro-Last)
Why for New Orleans
Ketone ethylene ester (KEE) replaced traditional plasticizers in premium PVC membranes, providing dramatically better UV resistance. These membranes have documented 40+ year service lives in high-UV climates. The KEE formulation stays flexible longer without the plasticizer migration that caused older PVC to become brittle. For a roof expected to perform 25-40 years in New Orleans without major intervention, this is our recommendation.
Best For
Long-term holds, institutional buildings, any owner prioritizing lowest lifecycle cost over lowest initial cost
Considerations
Premium price—typically 15-25% over standard PVC, 30-40% over TPO. Justified for buildings you expect to own or manage long-term. The weld-on flashing system creates fully homogeneous connections (same material welded to same material) rather than relying on adhesive compatibility.
Modified Bitumen (SBS)
Why for New Orleans
Modified bitumen has a long New Orleans track record—decades of proven performance on historic buildings, commercial structures, and institutional facilities. The multi-layer installation provides redundancy: even if the cap sheet is damaged, the base sheet provides secondary waterproofing. SBS (styrene-butadiene-styrene) modification keeps the membrane flexible across our temperature range. The asphalt mass provides inherent puncture resistance and self-healing properties for minor damage.
Best For
Historic buildings with irregular substrates, roofs with heavy foot traffic, owners who prefer proven over newest
Considerations
Torch application creates fire risks requiring proper protocols. Self-adhered and cold-applied options exist but perform differently. Modified bitumen is heavier than single-ply—verify structural capacity. Not as reflective as white single-ply unless white cap sheet or coating is specified (adds cost). Service life typically 15-25 years, less than premium single-ply options.
EPDM (Rubber)
Why for New Orleans
Honestly, we're installing less EPDM in New Orleans than we did years ago. The black membrane absorbs massive amounts of heat (surface temps over 170°F in summer), accelerating degradation. Adhesive seams don't perform as well as heat-welded seams under thermal cycling. White EPDM exists but at a premium that approaches TPO cost. EPDM's main advantage—proven longevity—developed in northern climates where UV exposure is half of what we experience here.
Best For
Limited applications: unconditioned warehouses where cooling cost is irrelevant, covered equipment areas, budget-constrained projects where TPO/PVC is genuinely unaffordable
Considerations
If you're being quoted EPDM at significant savings over TPO, ask why. It may be appropriate for your specific situation, or it may be a contractor defaulting to what they know rather than what's optimal. We'll install EPDM when it makes sense, but we'll explain why we're recommending it over reflective alternatives.
Protected Membrane Roof (PMR/IRMA)
Why for New Orleans
PMR—placing insulation and ballast over the waterproofing membrane rather than under it—is arguably the best system for New Orleans if your structure can support it. The membrane never sees UV exposure, thermal cycling is minimized, and foot traffic damages ballast rather than membrane. Service lives of 40-50 years are documented. This is the only roofing assembly where you'd expect to replace the visible surface (ballast, pavers) before the waterproofing.
Best For
Buildings with adequate structural capacity, long-term institutional owners, plaza decks, any project prioritizing maximum service life
Considerations
Structural load is the limiting factor—ballast adds 10-15 psf minimum. Not feasible for lightweight construction or buildings already near structural capacity. Higher initial cost. Leak detection is more difficult (though leaks are far less common). Must use XPS insulation (absorbs less water than polyiso or EPS) with appropriate ballast to prevent flotation.
Fluid-Applied Systems
Why for New Orleans
Spray or roller-applied seamless membranes eliminate field seams entirely—a meaningful advantage since seams are the most common failure point. PMMA (polymethyl methacrylate) cures extremely quickly, allowing application in variable conditions. Polyurethane systems provide excellent adhesion and elongation. Silicone tolerates ponding better than most membranes. These systems excel at recovery applications where installing a new membrane over existing is desirable.
Best For
Recover projects over smooth-surfaced existing roofs, complex shapes with many penetrations, fast-track projects where cure time matters
Considerations
Surface preparation is critical—any contamination under the coating creates adhesion failure. Recoating is required every 10-15 years (not a one-time installation). Quality varies dramatically between products and applicators. We specify fluid-applied systems when they're the right solution, not as a default.
Spray Polyurethane Foam (SPF)
Why for New Orleans
SPF provides insulation and waterproofing in a single application, creating a seamless, fully-adhered system. It can fill irregular substrates and create positive slope for drainage. R-value per inch (R-6.5+) is highest of common insulation types. For recover applications where adding thickness is acceptable, SPF can dramatically improve building performance.
Best For
Energy efficiency upgrades, recover over existing roofs, complex shapes, buildings with inadequate insulation
Considerations
Must be coated for UV protection—the foam itself degrades in sunlight. Coating reapplication every 10-15 years adds lifecycle maintenance. Application requires specialized equipment and training. Moisture in existing roof assembly must be addressed first; spraying over wet substrate creates problems. Not appropriate for all situations.
Commercial Flat Roofing Experience in New Orleans
New Orleans commercial flat roofing is a specialized discipline—the generic 'commercial roofer' from elsewhere doesn't understand vapor drive reversal, doesn't know why parapet details matter for hurricanes, and doesn't have relationships with inspectors who've seen these issues before. Here's what we bring:
Building Science Understanding
We design roof assemblies based on psychrometric principles, not just manufacturer cut sheets. We understand why vapor retarder placement is different here than in Dallas, why ventilation strategies that work in Atlanta fail in New Orleans, and how to create assemblies that can dry when moisture inevitably gets in. This knowledge prevents the premature failures we see on roofs designed with generic specifications.
Hurricane-Specific Detailing
Our edge metal, fastener patterns, and termination details are designed for Louisiana wind exposure, not generic national standards. We've seen what survives major hurricanes and what doesn't. Self-adhered secondary membranes at critical locations, parapet reinforcement at required heights, and overflow drainage that functions when primary drains are overwhelmed—these details matter when storms hit.
Material Selection for This Climate
We don't install what's cheapest or what we have relationships to sell. We recommend materials with documented performance in hot-humid, high-UV environments. When we suggest KEE-reinforced PVC over standard TPO, it's because we've seen the difference in longevity here. When we steer you away from EPDM, it's because we've torn off 10-year-old EPDM roofs that looked 25 years old.
Local Code & Insurance Knowledge
Louisiana roofing codes have specific wind uplift requirements. Insurance carriers have their own requirements for commercial roofs. We know what FM Global ratings you'll need, what documentation carriers expect, and how to navigate the LHDR approval process. This prevents expensive surprises after installation.
Post-Storm Response Capability
When hurricanes hit, commercial buildings need rapid assessment and emergency repairs. We have relationships with tarping services, emergency repair crews, and insurance adjusters. Our existing customers get priority for post-storm response. We document damage thoroughly for insurance claims and provide the professional assessments carriers require.
Commercial Flat Roofing: What We've Learned in New Orleans
Commercial flat roofing in New Orleans is different from anywhere else in the country. We've learned this through direct experience—seeing what works, what fails, and why. The patterns are clear once you've looked at enough roofs:
The failures we see most often aren't membrane failures. They're assembly failures—moisture trapped by incorrectly placed vapor retarders, ponding from inadequate drainage slope, edge peeling from wind uplift details designed for milder climates. The membrane itself is usually fine; everything around it was designed wrong for this environment.
The roofs that perform are the ones where someone thought through the complete assembly for this specific climate. Vapor retarder above deck, not below. Minimum ¼"/ft slope, actually achieved (not just specified). Edge details rated for our wind exposure. Drainage sized for tropical rainfall rates. These aren't exotic requirements—they're basic building science for Climate Zone 2A—but they require intentionality. Generic specifications from national manufacturers don't automatically account for them.
We've also learned that owner education matters as much as installation quality. Commercial roofs fail slowly, then suddenly. Regular inspections catch problems when they're $500 repairs rather than $50,000 emergencies. Drain maintenance during hurricane season prevents the catastrophic ponding that collapses structures. Understanding your roof's maintenance requirements extends its useful life dramatically.
Our approach is straightforward: we design assemblies for New Orleans conditions specifically, we execute installations with appropriate detail, and we stay involved with maintenance and inspection to catch problems early. Nothing about commercial flat roofing here is rocket science—but it does require understanding the specific challenges of this place.
Recent Projects
Warehouse District Mixed-Use
Historic warehouse conversion to commercial/residential mixed-use. Original wood deck over heavy timber, 35,000 sq ft total across complex roofline.
Challenge: Wood deck couldn't accept mechanical fastening without significant reinforcement. Multiple rooftop HVAC units and existing drainage was inadequate—ponding was chronic.
Solution: Fully-adhered modified bitumen system that doesn't rely on mechanical attachment. Rebuilt tapered insulation system to create positive slope toward new oversized internal drains. Added secondary overflow scuppers at all parapet corners. Three years post-install, zero ponding, zero leaks.
CBD High-Rise
20-story commercial building, 8,000 sq ft roof with significant mechanical equipment and cooling towers.
Challenge: Working at height with limited crane access. Equipment couldn't be relocated during installation. Previous roof had leaked for years, damaging insulation throughout.
Solution: Material lifted via existing building freight elevator. Phased installation working around operating equipment. Complete tear-off revealed saturated insulation to deck—full replacement rather than recover. PVC membrane welded to custom-fabricated equipment flashings. Two-year follow-up shows perfect performance through multiple tropical weather events.
New Orleans East Distribution Center
180,000 sq ft warehouse for logistics company. 24/7 operations with high-value inventory.
Challenge: Operations couldn't stop—any leak during installation would damage inventory worth more than the roof cost. Previous TPO roof had failed at seams throughout.
Solution: Installed in 30,000 sq ft sections, each section fully watertight before proceeding to next. Night work where sections interfaced with active storage. 80-mil TPO with double-welded seams and additional reinforcement at all penetrations. Completed in 8 weeks with zero cargo damage incidents.
Metairie Restaurant Row
Multi-tenant retail strip with four restaurants in 12-tenant center. 42,000 sq ft total roof area.
Challenge: Restaurant exhaust had destroyed previous TPO in multiple areas. Couldn't create odors during tenant business hours. Different landlord priorities for different sections.
Solution: PVC membrane for all sections within 50 feet of restaurant exhaust fans (required for chemical resistance). TPO for remaining sections (cost savings where appropriate). Coordinated with restaurant closures for critical work phases. Zero complaints from other tenants despite 3-week project duration.
FAQ
Frequently Asked Questions
How long do commercial flat roofs last in New Orleans?
Service life varies dramatically based on system type and installation quality. Standard TPO or PVC: 15-25 years with proper maintenance. KEE-reinforced PVC: 25-35 years. Modified bitumen: 15-25 years. Protected membrane (PMR): 30-50 years. EPDM in our climate: often only 10-15 years due to UV degradation. These timelines assume proper assembly design for our climate—roofs installed with generic northern specifications often fail in 8-12 years regardless of membrane type. The membrane itself is rarely the failure point; it's the details around it.
What causes most commercial flat roof failures in New Orleans?
Three main causes: (1) Moisture trapped in assembly due to incorrectly placed vapor retarders—this is extremely common in New Orleans where vapor drive is opposite of northern climates. (2) Inadequate drainage causing chronic ponding, which accelerates membrane degradation and breeds biological growth. (3) Wind uplift at edges and corners during storms, particularly on roofs with edge details designed for milder climates. Actual membrane punctures or manufacturing defects are relatively rare failure causes.
Do you need a vapor barrier on flat roofs in New Orleans?
Maybe—but not where you might think. In hot-humid climates like New Orleans, vapor drive is predominantly inward (exterior to interior), not outward like northern climates. A vapor retarder on the interior side of insulation (standard northern detail) traps moisture in the assembly here. If a vapor retarder is used, it belongs above the deck, below the insulation. Many New Orleans assemblies are better served by omitting vapor retarders entirely and allowing bi-directional drying. We assess interior conditions and specify accordingly—air-conditioned spaces have different requirements than unconditioned warehouses.
What flat roof material is best for New Orleans hurricanes?
Material matters less than attachment and detailing. A poorly attached premium membrane will fail before a properly attached budget membrane. That said, modified bitumen's multi-layer redundancy provides backup if the top layer is damaged. Fully-adhered single-ply resists wind better than mechanically-attached single-ply at edges and corners. Self-adhered secondary membranes at parapets provide backup water protection. Standing seam metal (for sloped sections) has excellent wind resistance when properly clipped. The key is specifying appropriate wind uplift ratings and executing edge details correctly.
Why is commercial flat roofing more expensive in New Orleans than other cities?
Proper assemblies for our climate require additional components and details. Hurricane-rated wind uplift assemblies cost more than standard. Appropriate vapor control requires either omitting the vapor retarder (saving money) or installing it in the correct location (sometimes requiring additional layers). Drainage must handle 4+ inch/hour rainfall rates, requiring more drains, larger scuppers, or more tapered insulation. Reflective membranes are mandatory (black roofs deteriorate too fast), and quality reflective membranes cost more than budget black EPDM. You can get cheaper bids—but they're usually skipping the details that matter here.
How much slope does a flat roof need in New Orleans?
Minimum ¼ inch per foot (2.08%, or 1.19°) to any drain or edge. This is code minimum—we prefer more where achievable. The slope must be created either in the structural deck (rarely done in existing buildings) or with tapered insulation (standard approach). "Flat" roofs are never actually flat—positive drainage is required to prevent ponding. Given New Orleans rainfall intensity, adequate slope and drain sizing matter more here than in drier climates. We verify slope with level measurements, not just trusting that tapered insulation drawings match reality.
Can you install a new flat roof over the existing roof?
Sometimes. If the existing roof is structurally sound (deck not rotted or rusted), reasonably dry (verified by moisture testing), and building codes allow additional layers, recovering over existing can save 25-40% vs. tear-off. However: if the existing insulation is wet, it must come off. If the existing vapor retarder is in the wrong location (common here), recovering over it perpetuates the problem. If the existing roof has drainage issues, recovering doesn't fix them. We evaluate honestly whether recover is appropriate—we won't recommend it when problems underneath will continue.
How do you handle flat roofs with heavy rooftop equipment?
Rooftop HVAC, exhaust fans, and equipment require proper support and flashing. Equipment supports should bear on structure, not just on membrane—point loads from equipment legs compress and damage insulation over time. We install support systems that distribute loads appropriately. Pipe flashings, curbs, and penetration details must be compatible with the membrane type (PVC flashings for PVC roofs, etc.). Walk pads protect membrane from maintenance foot traffic. For new equipment additions, we coordinate with HVAC contractors on proper curb and support installation.
What warranty should I expect for commercial flat roofing?
Warranty options vary by system and manufacturer. Standard warranties: 10-15 years, material coverage only (labor for repairs not included). Enhanced warranties: 15-20 years with labor coverage. No Dollar Limit (NDL) warranties: 20-30 years, covering full replacement costs without depreciation—this is the most comprehensive option. Manufacturer warranties require certified installation, which we provide. We also provide our own workmanship warranty for installation defects. Read warranty exclusions carefully—most exclude damage from hurricanes, ponding over a certain depth, and unauthorized roof access.
Do you provide emergency flat roof repairs?
Yes. Commercial roof leaks damage inventory, interrupt operations, and create liability issues. We respond to emergency calls with temporary repairs (sealing active leaks, tarping) to stop immediate damage, followed by permanent repair planning. Post-storm damage assessment for insurance claims is a core service during hurricane season. Call (504) 533-6419 for emergencies. Existing contract customers receive priority response.
How often should commercial flat roofs be inspected in New Orleans?
Minimum twice annually (spring before hurricane season, fall after) plus after any significant storm. New Orleans roofs see more stress than most—high UV, intense rainfall, hurricane potential—and catching small problems early prevents expensive emergencies. We recommend quarterly inspections for roofs over 15 years old or buildings with critical operations. Inspection includes drains and scuppers (clear them before every storm), membrane condition, seam integrity, flashing integrity, and evidence of ponding. Many building owners include inspections in maintenance contracts with us.
What is a Protected Membrane Roof (PMR) and should I consider one?
PMR (also called IRMA—Inverted Roof Membrane Assembly) places the waterproofing membrane directly on the deck, then covers it with insulation (XPS) and ballast (gravel or pavers). The membrane never sees UV exposure, thermal cycling, or foot traffic damage. This results in dramatically longer service life—40-50 years is achievable. PMR is the best-performing assembly type for any climate, particularly beneficial in New Orleans where UV exposure destroys conventional systems. The catch: ballast adds 10-15+ pounds per square foot, requiring adequate structural capacity. If your building can support it, PMR is worth considering for any long-term hold.
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