What are the Different Kinds of Commercial Roofing?
A business building’s roof must be dependable and well-maintained to safeguard the structure, its inhabitants, and its priceless assets.
Understanding the different kinds of commercial roofing materials can help you decide on the best roofing system for your business. The building’s size, form, and intended use should all be considered when choosing the best roofing system.
Green Roofing System
Growth media and plants are installed on the roof of commercial buildings using green roofing technology. Insulation from this roofing system may save energy costs, lessen stormwater runoff, boost biodiversity, and create a home for wildlife.
In addition to its many aesthetic advantages, green roofing solutions can enhance air quality, reduce noise, and lengthen the lifespan of roofs. Consult a skilled business roof contractor to guarantee the system is built and maintained correctly since green roofing systems need expert installation and maintenance.
Roofs Using EPDM (Ethylene Propylene Diene Monomer)
EPDM (Ethylene Propylene Diene Monomer) is a popular commercial roofing solution due to its high durability, energy efficiency, and affordability. It is a synthetic rubber roofing membrane composed of a single-ply layer of rubber.
It is highly resistant to ozone, ultraviolet, and extreme temperature variations, making it an ideal choice for various commercial building applications. It is also incredibly lightweight and easy to install, making it an ideal choice for many businesses. EPDM roofing membranes are available in white and black, providing a great aesthetic appeal for many businesses.
They are also surprisingly affordable and require little to no maintenance, making them ideal for various commercial roofing applications.
Systems with Modified Bitumen Roofing
This system comprises a reinforced base sheet and multiple layers of an asphalt-based material, all combined with a protective surface layer. This roofing system provides superior protection against wind and rain and offers resistance to extreme temperatures.
Modified bitumen roofing systems are also highly resistant to punctures, tears, and other physical damage, making them an excellent choice for commercial roofing projects.
This system is relatively easy to install and maintain, making it a great cost-effective choice for long-term roofing solutions.
Systems for Built-Up Roofing
It comprises several layers of waterproof material, typically asphalt, plywood, and reinforcing fabrics. These layers are then sealed together with hot asphalt or coal-tar pitch.
A gravel or stone surface is then applied to the top layer of the roof to add an extra layer of protection from the elements. They are also resistant to fire, wind, and hail, making them an excellent choice for commercial roofing projects.
Built-up roofing systems are inexpensive and can be installed quickly with minimal disruption to a business’s operations.
Metal Roofing
Metal roofing is a popular choice for commercial buildings due to its durability, energy efficiency, and resistance to fire, wind, and other elements. It is also low maintenance and can last for decades before needing to be replaced.
Metal roofs come in wide varieties, such as standing seam, corrugated, and interlocking panels. Standing seam metal roofs are durable and aesthetically pleasing, while corrugated metal roofs provide a lower-cost option.
Interlocking panels provide extra strength and are suitable for steep or complex roof designs.
Applied Liquid Roofing
Applied liquid roofing is a seamless membrane composed of elastomeric or rubberized materials applied directly to the roof deck, providing complete coverage and protection.
This type of roofing is highly resistant to punctures, tears, and extreme weather conditions. It can be customized to fit the needs of any commercial roofing project.
Applied liquid roofing also offers superior protection against UV rays, which can cause premature aging of the roof deck and other components.
Systemic Roof Coatings
Systemic roof coatings are special ones applied over an existing roof to protect it from the elements and increase its lifespan. Systemic roof coatings provide an additional layer of protection to roofs.
Systemic roof coatings help to waterproof the roof, reduce energy costs, and protect against UV rays. These are also used for asphalt, metal, wood, and stone roofs.
Steep Slope
Steep slope roofing is used on pitched roofs and comes in various styles and materials. It is commonly seen in residential and commercial settings and comprises asphalt shingles, metal roofing, wood shakes, and slate tiles.
It is an excellent option because it is lightweight, has a long life expectancy, and is available in various colors and textures. It is also highly resistant to fire and extreme weather. It is easy to install and maintain, making it a popular choice for commercial roofing solutions.
Cover and Insulation Boards
These boards protect the underlying roofing materials from the elements and provide additional thermal insulation. They are typically made from various materials, including expanded polystyrene, extruded polystyrene, and mineral wool.
Cover and insulation boards are available in different thicknesses, styles, and applications, so it’s essential to consult with a professional roofer to ensure you’re selecting the right product for your specific needs.
Individual Ply Roofing
It is a single-layer system installed in one application that is cost-effective and easy to install. It is available in various colors and textures, making it suitable for various applications.
It is also an excellent choice for flat roofs since it can be customized to fit the shape of the roof. It is resistant to water and wind damage, making it ideal for places with extreme weather.
It also has a long life expectancy and is easy to repair or replace. It is low maintenance and requires very little maintenance once it is installed.
TPO (Thermoplastic Polyolefin)
TPO Thermoplastic Polyolefin) is typically installed in two layers, with the first layer providing a reflective barrier and the second layer providing waterproofing. TPO has a long lifespan and is available in either white or gray.
TPO is an ideal choice for low-slope commercial roofs because it is lightweight and easy to install. It also requires less maintenance than other roofing materials, making it economical.
PVC (Polyvinyl Chloride)
PVC roofing comes in various colors and thicknesses, allowing for a customized look and feel. Its low cost and ease of installation make it a cost-effective choice for many businesses.
PVC roofing is an excellent choice for commercial roofing applications, offering durability, cost-effectiveness, and aesthetic appeal.