PROJECT SPOTLIGHT.

55,000 SQFT Multi-Family Roofing Project Featuring Polyglass PolyFresko

Phoenix Roofing Services recently completed a large-scale flat roof replacement project at Imperial Harbors in Winter Haven, Florida, consisting of two residential buildings totaling approximately 55,000 square feet of roof area.

This project serves as a textbook example of why proper drainage design, product selection, and experienced project oversight are critical for commercial and multi-family flat roofing systems in Central Florida.

When a TPO Roof Fails Prematurely

The previous roofing system was a TPO flat roof installed without adequate slope. While TPO is widely used in commercial roofing, improper drainage design can lead to ponding water — a major issue during Florida’s intense storm seasons.

Over time, standing water compromised the system’s integrity, resulting in premature failure. The buildings required a full flat roof replacement, well before the typical life expectancy of the system.

Flat roofing systems in Florida must be engineered not only for waterproofing, but also for hurricane-driven rain events, wind uplift, and extreme UV exposure.

Adding Tapered Insulation for Proper Drainage

To correct the original design flaw, we installed a new tapered insulation board system, engineered to create positive drainage across the entire roof surface.

Proper slope is not optional — it is essential to the longevity of any modified bitumen or TPO roof system. By re-engineering the drainage plane, this project now meets modern performance standards and significantly reduces the risk of future ponding water issues.

Why We Selected the Polyglass PolyFresko Modified Bitumen System

For this project, we installed the Polyglass PolyFresko premium modified bitumen roofing system with Polyglass TU+ underlayment.

PolyFresko is superior to typical granulated cap sheet systems because it features advanced APP-modified asphalt technology and a high-performance reflective surfacing that provides enhanced UV resistance, long-term flexibility, and superior waterproofing performance in Florida’s climate.

In our experience, Polyglass products consistently outperform entry-level modified bitumen systems, especially in high-exposure, high-heat environments like Central Florida.

For commercial and multi-family flat roof replacement projects, we frequently recommend Polyglass systems due to:

• Proven storm resilience

• Enhanced granule adhesion

• Strong manufacturer support

• Industry-leading warranty programs

Third-Party Project Oversight – A Best Practice

This installation was completed under the authority of a third-party engineer and project manager — a model we strongly recommend for large-scale condominium and commercial roofing projects.

Independent project oversight ensures:

• Thorough and accurate condition assessments for RFQ development

• Proper specification compliance & Installation quality verification

• Objective decision-making

• Transparent communication with ownership

Like our recent Chateaux Du Lac project in Winter Park, the local Polyglass technical representative was actively involved in jobsite collaboration, addressing complex conditions and validating warranty compliance. This level of manufacturer partnership adds another layer of protection for property owners.

Site Safety, Logistics & Resident Experience

Large-scale multi-family roof replacement projects can be disruptive. At Imperial Harbors, the client shared our priority for safety, organization, and professionalism — which made a tremendous difference.

Our team implemented:

• Full perimeter fencing of work zones

• Dedicated scaffolding systems with stair towers

• Built-in trash chutes for controlled debris removal

• Separate overhead protection scaffolding for pedestrian walkways

• A designated material staging area

• A mobile on-site project office

This level of planning creates a safer, cleaner environment for both roofing crews and residents. When ownership and contractor are aligned on expectations, projects run smoother and with significantly fewer headaches.

A Model Flat Roof Replacement for Central Florida

This Imperial Harbors project reflects our core approach at Phoenix Roofing Services:

• Correct design deficiencies, not just surface symptoms

• Partner with trusted manufacturers like Polyglass

• Utilize third-party engineering oversight

• Prioritize safety, drainage, and long-term performance

• Providing maximum value for all project stakeholders

For property managers and condominium associations evaluating TPO roof failure, modified bitumen replacement, or large-scale flat roof renovation projects in Central Florida, the first step is unbiased and accurate assessment of current conditions, a well thought out plan with concurrence on process and risk management, and partnering with a team you can trust.  

If you’re considering a flat roof replacement in Winter Haven, Orlando, Winter Park, Celebration, or anywhere in Central Florida, our team would be happy to provide a professional evaluation.