Engelmann Construction

Roof Restoration at Buckle Down in Farmingdale

When a fast-moving March storm swept through the Farmingdale business corridor, it left more than just debris in its wake. It exposed a critical roof system vulnerability at Buckle Down Industries on Smith Street. High winds caught the southwest corner of the roof, lifting edge metal and peeling back approximately 10 feet by 100 feet of modified bitumen membrane. The result: exposed gypsum decking and an urgent need for immediate stabilization and long-term planning.

This wasnt our first interaction with Buckle Down. Back in 2021, Engelmann Roof Coatings had met with owner Ross Labelson to discuss extending the life of the existing roof through fluid-applied restoration systems. While coatings remain one of the most effective tools for roof lifecycle extension, this event shifted the equation. The level of storm damage required a more comprehensive solution.

As timing would have it, our team was already mobilized directly across Smith Street working on another commercial project for a long-standing Farmingdale business, AUSCO Industries. That proximity allowed us to respond immediately, securing the compromised area, preventing further water intrusion, and providing management with clear, actionable options.

The initial phase focused on stabilization. We re-secured the blown-back membrane and assessed the full extent of damage. From there, we coordinated closely with the insurance carrier to define a path forward that balanced cost, performance, and long-term value. The outcome was a full roof replacement utilizing a high-performance TPO system.

Working alongside George Kitras, the New York area single-ply representative for GAF, we developed a custom specification tailored to the buildings conditions and operational needs. His on-site support and technical input were instrumental in ensuring a smooth execution from start to finish.

As with many rehabilitation projects, uncovering the roof revealed challenges beyond the initial storm damage. Abandoned penetrations, improperly routed gas lines, and aging edge conditions all required correction. These are the realities often hidden beneath the surface, conditions that, if left unaddressed, compromise even the best roofing systems.

Our team takes pride in resolving these issues the right way. This project evolved into a full roof rehabilitation: removal of compromised components, proper deck preparation, installation of a new TPO roofing system, and integration of updated edge details and flashings. The completed system now carries a 20-year manufacturer-inspected warranty, delivering long-term protection and peace of mind.

Projects like this highlight the importance of readiness, responsiveness, and technical expertise. From emergency response to final warranty inspection, every phase matters.

Two businesses on the same Farmingdale Road, one producing dog collars, the other supporting military machinery, now share something in common: high-performance roofing systems designed to withstand the elements and protect what matters most.

If your facility has experienced storm damage or youre evaluating the condition of your existing roof, understanding your options early can make all the difference.