Canaan, New York — nestled in the rolling countryside of Columbia County — is known for its quiet charm and rural character. But behind the scenes of peaceful living, local businesses rely on strong, dependable roofs to protect their investments. Whether it’s a small general store, a manufacturing facility, or a farm-based operation, a solid commercial roof is essential — especially when Upstate weather decides to turn.
At Home Evolution Roofing, we’ve worked with a wide range of property owners in Canaan and nearby towns. In this article, we’ll take you behind the scenes of a few commercial roofing projects we’ve completed in the area. We’ll share how we approached each project, the challenges we faced, and the long-term value these roofs brought to our clients.
If you’re a property owner looking for a commercial roofer you can trust — someone who will explain the process, walk you through the options, and take care of your building as if it were their own — we hope these case studies give you a clear picture of what we do.
Why Commercial Roofing in Canaan Is Unique
Before diving into the case studies, let’s talk about why Canaan commercial roofing requires a tailored approach:
-
-
-
Weather extremes – Winters can be harsh with snow and ice buildup, while summers bring UV exposure and humidity.
-
Rural infrastructure – Many buildings rely on older construction, which means structural evaluations are often needed.
-
Low-slope and flat roofs – These are common in barns, warehouses, and retail buildings, requiring specific materials like EPDM or TPO.
-
Long-term value – In a tight-knit community like Canaan, business owners don’t want band-aid solutions. They want roofing systems that will last.
-
-
Case Study #1: EPDM Roof for a Local Farm Warehouse
Location: North Canaan Road, Canaan, NY
Building Type: Agricultural Storage & Processing Facility
Roof Type: Flat Roof (6,500 sq. ft.)
Material Used: EPDM single-ply membrane
The Situation:
This local farm facility handles produce packaging and cold storage. The original roof — a 30-year-old tar and gravel system — had begun leaking after several winters of freeze-thaw cycles. Water was seeping into stored equipment and causing mold on the interior walls.
Our Solution:
We recommended a durable EPDM membrane. EPDM (ethylene propylene diene monomer) is ideal for flat roofs in rural settings: it’s tough, UV-resistant, and designed to withstand ponding water.
We stripped the old roof, inspected the decking (replaced about 15% due to rot), and installed a brand-new 60-mil black EPDM membrane. We also added new flashing around vents and improved drainage using tapered insulation panels.
The Result:
Not only did the roof become leak-free, but it also helped regulate interior temperatures, reducing the client’s energy costs by 10–15%. The farm owner said, “It’s the first time in years we haven’t had to put out buckets after a storm.”
Case Study #2: Standing Seam Metal Roof for Rural Retail Shop
Location: County Route 5, Canaan, NY
Building Type: General Store + Café
Roof Type: Pitched Roof (3,000 sq. ft.)
Material Used: Standing seam metal roof
The Situation:
The owner of this retail store and café was struggling with water leaks near the chimney and valleys. The old asphalt shingle roof had reached the end of its life and didn’t match the shop’s charming rustic aesthetic anymore.
Our Solution:
We suggested a standing seam metal roof in a charcoal-gray finish — low maintenance, long-lasting (up to 50 years), and perfect for snowy conditions. The panels interlock tightly, providing excellent protection against wind and ice dams.
Our crew carefully removed the old shingles, installed ice and water barrier underlayment, and added a vented ridge system for airflow. We coordinated work around the shop’s business hours to avoid disruption.
The Result:
The new roof gave the building a clean, updated look and stopped all leaks. The café owner told us that regulars noticed the improvement right away. “It gave the place a facelift. We’re proud of how it looks now — and no more leaks by the fireplace.”
Case Study #3: Flat Roof Retrofit for Historic Grange Hall
Location: East Chatham Road, Canaan, NY
Building Type: Community Meeting Hall
Roof Type: Flat roof (4,200 sq. ft.)
Material Used: TPO membrane with energy-efficient insulation
The Situation:
This historic Grange Hall, dating back to the early 1900s, was facing chronic roof issues. The flat roof had pooled water in several areas, and there was evidence of insulation breakdown and mold near skylights.
Our Solution:
We worked with the preservation committee to respect the building’s heritage while upgrading the roofing system. We recommended a white TPO (thermoplastic polyolefin) membrane for reflectivity and energy savings.
After removing the old modified bitumen system, we repaired the wood decking and installed 2.5” polyiso insulation boards for thermal efficiency. The new TPO membrane was fully adhered and heat-welded at seams for a watertight finish.
The Result:
The hall is now energy-efficient, well-ventilated, and free of leaks. The committee appreciated how we kept the historical architecture intact while bringing the roof into the 21st century. They now use the space year-round without fear of weather-related damage.
What All These Projects Had in Common
Each one was different — a farm, a café, a community center — but what tied them together was our process and philosophy:
-
-
-
Personalized Estimates – Every project begins with a free, no-pressure consultation. We take our time to walk the property, listen to your concerns, and explain options in everyday terms.
-
Professional Crews – Our team shows up on time, works cleanly, and respects your business and schedule.
-
Clear Communication – We explain everything: what we’re doing, why we’re doing it, and what it will cost.
-
Premium Materials – From EPDM to standing seam metal, we only use trusted brands built to last in New York’s climate.
-
Long-Term Thinking – We never offer short-term fixes that won’t hold up. Our solutions are designed for 20, 30, even 50-year lifespans.
-
-
Why Columbia County Businesses Trust Home Evolution Roofing
We’re not some out-of-town company driving up for a quick job. We’re based here, and we work here — from Canaan to Kinderhook, from Chatham to Claverack. We believe in building lasting relationships with our neighbors.
We’ve helped schools, barns, inns, warehouses, and shops stay dry and safe — and we’re proud of every project.
How to Get Started with Your Own Commercial Roofing Project
If you own a business or commercial building in Canaan, now is a great time to inspect your roof. Whether you need a full replacement, a flat roof evaluation, or just a second opinion, we’re happy to help.
What to expect when you call us:
-
-
-
Free Inspection
-
Clear, Written Estimate
-
Photo Documentation
-
Insurance Support (if applicable)
-
Flexible Scheduling
-
-
We’ll even show you photos of similar past projects, so you can feel confident in the work we’re recommending.
Final Thoughts: Roofing Built for Real Life
Commercial roofing doesn’t have to be complicated or intimidating. Whether you run a small shop or manage a large facility, you deserve honest guidance, skilled craftsmanship, and a roof that protects what matters most.
We hope these Canaan case studies give you a sense of how we work — and how we can help. From our family to yours, thank you for trusting Home Evolution Roofing.