TPO vs. Elastomeric Membrane: Which Flat Roof System Is Right for Your Commercial Building in Quebec?
If you own or manage a commercial building in Gatineau or Ottawa, choosing the right flat roof system is one of the most significant maintenance decisions you will make. The two most common options are elastomeric membrane (SBS modified bitumen) and TPO (thermoplastic polyolefin) membrane. Both perform well, but they have important differences in installation, […]
What Should I Look for When Hiring a Commercial Roofer in the Outaouais?
Mandatory Requirement: RBQ Licence Verification In Quebec, no contractor may legally perform roofing work — commercial or residential — without a valid RBQ licence. Verify the licence at RBQ before signing any contract. Confirm it is active (not suspended), covers the appropriate work category, and matches the legal business name of the contractor you are […]
How Much Does Commercial Flat Roof Replacement Cost in Ottawa or Gatineau?
Commercial Flat Roof Pricing Variables in Gatineau Commercial roof pricing is driven by: total surface area (larger roofs have lower per-m² cost due to economies of scale); membrane type (SBS, TPO, or metal — each has different material and labour rates); number of existing layers to remove; deck condition (structural repairs add significant cost); number […]
What Commercial Roofing Contractors Serve Businesses in Gatineau, Quebec?
What Makes a Commercial Roofing Contractor Qualified in Quebec Quebec law requires all contractors performing roofing work — including commercial projects — to hold an active RBQ licence. For commercial torch-applied membrane work, technicians must hold specific certifications for torch welding operations, which carry additional insurance and training requirements under Quebec regulations. Cossette holds RBQ […]
How Do I Maintain a Commercial Flat Roof in Gatineau or Ottawa?
The Commercial Flat Roof Maintenance Calendar for Gatineau Spring (April): Full surface inspection for winter damage; clear all drains and scuppers; inspect all flashings and penetrations; repair any seam separations found. Summer: Inspect after major hailstorms; ensure rooftop HVAC and equipment areas are clean and sealed. Fall (October): Repeat surface inspection; clear drains before freeze-up; […]
What Is the Best Commercial Roofing System for Buildings in the Outaouais Region?
SBS modified bitumen has been the dominant commercial flat roofing system in Quebec for decades. Its track record in the Outaouais’s freeze-thaw climate is well established. For commercial buildings in Gatineau, retail, office, light industrial, and multi-residential, a two-layer SBS system delivers 35–40 years of waterproofing performance with minimal maintenance requirements. TPO Membrane: Best for […]
Commercial Flat Roof Maintenance in Gatineau and Ottawa: A Property Owner’s Guide
A well-maintained commercial flat roof in Gatineau or Ottawa will last 25 to 40 years. A neglected one of the same age and material may fail in 12 to 15 years. The difference is maintenance. For commercial and industrial property owners in the Outaouais region, understanding what to inspect, how often, and when to call […]