What’s Hiding Beneath Your Commercial Roof’s Surface: An Infrared Investigation

PROJECT: AMREX CHEMICAL COMPANY, INC.

OBJECTIVE: THERMAL IMAGE DETECTION OF MOISTURE-AFFECTED ROOF INSULATION & REPLACEMENT

PROJECT SIZE: APPROXIMATELY 37,800 SQUARE FEET

ROOF COMPOSITION: PVC MEMBRANE WITH 2” INSULATION AND METAL DECKING

Amrex Chemical Co., Inc. is a wholesale chemical distributor based in Binghamton, NY. Founded in 1982 by William F. Rexer, Jr., the company began at its headquarters on East Frederick Street. Over the past 30 years, it has expanded throughout the Southern Tier of New York with several warehousing locations.

BEFORE THE PROJECT:

After recurring roof leaks disrupted daily operations and raised concerns about interior damage, Amrex contacted our team to identify the source of the problem. To prevent further damage and costly shutdowns, we immediately moved forward with a scope of work to quickly and accurately diagnose the issue.

OUR STRATEGIC APPROACH:

Our team conducted a detailed infrared moisture survey to identify areas where insulation may have been damaged by water intrusion. This technique is completely non-destructive and uses advanced thermal imaging to spot anomalies in the roof system. By detecting heat signatures trapped within wet insulation or between membrane layers, we can identify problem areas without cutting into the roof or interrupting the building’s operations.

To perform the analysis, PB Roofing used the Fluke Ti480P Thermal Imaging System, one of the industry’s leading diagnostic tools. This camera detects electromagnetic thermal energy emitted from roof surfaces.

We found 44 moisture-related thermal patterns covering 8,562 square feet of roofing.

This is approximately 23% of the total roof surface.

OUR SPECIALIZED SOLUTION

After clearing out the wet areas, we installed new insulation and a new TPO roofing membrane to seal and protect the roof. All edges, walls, and roof fixtures were properly sealed to prevent future leaks, and new drainage components were added where needed. Walkway pads were placed in high-traffic service areas to protect the roof surface. Once the work was complete, all debris was removed, leaving the building with a clean, watertight, and long-term roofing solution.

• Repair of damaged metal decking (to avoid rusting)
• Replacement of damaged roof drains
• Replacement of damaged wood nailer (to avoid rot)
• Replacement of damaged insulation
• Main roof area replaced with TPO membrane

THE OUTCOME:

Due to the customized, strategic approach tailored to Amrex’s operational needs, the moisture intrusion issue was entirely resolved, and the roof was restored to a watertight, high-performing condition.

By targeting specific problem areas with tailored remediation rather than a generic solution, we eliminated the leak source, replaced damaged materials, and strengthened the roof system to prevent future issues. With the moisture concerns resolved, Amrex can now confidently focus on its core operations, trusting its roof’s reliability.

THE LESSON:

By combining advanced technology with expert analysis, our distinctive, precise approach ensured moisture-affected areas were accurately identified and defined, enabling targeted repairs and cost-effective planning.

As difficult as it may be to believe, incidents like this are standard. When a newer roof system is installed over an older one still underneath, moisture can become trapped between the two layers. In such cases, water usually does not enter the building, or only does so minimally, leaving occupants unaware of the problem’s severity.

Taking measures, such as seasonal preventative maintenance, helps detect potential issues early and enables proactive upkeep rather than reactive repairs.

THREATCHECK PLUS PREVENTATIVE MAINTENANCE:

PB Roofing’s THREATCheck Plus preventative maintenance program begins with a thorough assessment of the roof’s overall condition. This initial report identifies both emergency and non-emergency issues and provides a projected budget for roof replacement if necessary. From there, we create a customized plan based on the roof’s condition. Additionally, we ensure compliance with the manufacturer’s warranty requirements, which typically require annual maintenance.

YOUR CHIEF ROOFING OFFICERS:

At PB Roofing, we serve as your Chief Roofing Officers, delivering comprehensive solutions through the nation’s only dedicated commercial roofing Client Experience team. Whether it’s routine maintenance or large-scale projects, everything you need is handled under one roof.

When emergencies occur, our in-house crews are ready to respond on-site within 24 hours. We also provide proactive asset management to help you plan budgets, extend roof life, and prevent operational disruptions.

Every project is completed with a focus on deadlines, ensuring punctuality as standard, not just a goal. Our safety-first culture prioritizes protecting your people, property, and business operations. With extensive coverage across the East Coast, we deliver consistent, high-quality service wherever you need us.

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