[heading-style-h3]Business First: Replacing a 15-Year Torchdown Roof Without Disrupting Operations or Tenant Life[heading-style-h3]

[heading-style-h4]Project Overview[heading-style-h4]‍

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[heading-style-h6]The Situation[heading-style-h6]

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A multi-family property near Alki Beach in West Seattle, was experiencing widespread roofing failures. The aged single-ply torchdown system was over 15 years old, beyond its performance life, and in non-certifiable condition. To protect the building and its residents, a full roof replacement was the only responsible solution.

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[heading-style-h6]The Client[heading-style-h6]

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The property management team needed a long-term, warrantied system that would lower ongoing maintenance costs and ensure tenant comfort for years to come.

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<<This project covered both flat and sloped sections of the apartment complex:>>

• Flat Roof Section: 4,184 sq. ft. (Main roof + parapet walls/curbs)
• Sloped Roof Section: 784 sq. ft.

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[heading-style-h4]Challenges[heading-style-h4]

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Replacing the roof while the property remained fully occupied brought several challenges:

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• Active use of the property – Crews had to manage heavy materials and debris removal without disturbing residents.
• Complex roof features – Skylights, penetrations, and rooftop HVAC units required detailed waterproofing.
• Parapet wall transitions – Old coping and flashing had to be removed and replaced for watertight edges.
• Ventilation upgrades – Ten new vents were added, requiring adjustments to the roof’s airflow system.

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[heading-style-h4]Solution[heading-style-h4]

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Flat Roof Pros installed a GAF 80-mil TPO Roofing System (mechanically attached), protected by a 20-year manufacturer warranty and a 20-year workmanship warranty.

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[heading-style-h6]Project Planning & Occupied Property Strategy[heading-style-h6]

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Because the complex remained open during construction, a phased work plan was designed to minimize disruption:

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• Staging & safety – Loading and debris areas were placed away from high-traffic walkways and entrances.
• Noise & timing – Loud work and material handling were scheduled for daytime hours.
• Clear communication – Daily progress updates kept property managers informed and tenants prepared.
• Clean site – Debris was removed and cleanup performed daily for a safe, professional environment.
• Crew coordination – Roofers worked efficiently around common areas and building access points to reduce interference.

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[heading-style-h6]Surface Preparation[heading-style-h6]

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• Full tear-off down to the deck
• Removal of coping, flashing, and deteriorated materials
• Installed vapor barrier and separator sheet (FR-10)

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[heading-style-h6]System Installation[heading-style-h6]

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• Replaced damaged plywood and rebuilt thresholds
• Installed two layers of PolyIso insulation and Dens Deck for energy efficiency and durability
• Added six new scuppers and 10 new vents for improved drainage and airflow
• Fabricated and installed new coping around parapet walls
• Installed new skylights and chimney flashings
• Mechanically attached GAF 80-mil TPO membrane

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[heading-style-h6]Detailing[heading-style-h6]

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• Properly lifted, waterproofed, and reinstalled AC units
• Waterproofed all penetrations and transitions
• Reused select flashing where appropriate for a secure fit

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[heading-style-h4]Completed Project[heading-style-h4]

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Flat Roof Pros successfully executed a full roof replacement while tenants continued their daily routines without disruption. The result delivered:

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• 20-year material and workmanship warranties
• Improved drainage and ventilation
• New skylights, scuppers, vents, and coping
• A reflective, energy-efficient TPO system made for long-term waterproofing

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The property now benefits from a fully renewed roof, built to withstand Seattle’s climate for decades.

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→ More about Full Roof Replacement services

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‍Need a New Roof But Can’t Disrupt Business?

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Leaks won’t wait—and ignoring them puts your building and operations at risk. Flat Roof Pros replaces flat roofs with careful scheduling, clean worksites, and safety planning.

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📞 Book your free estimate today!

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