What Is The Best Roof for a Commercial Building?

1. Metal Roofing

The metal roofing is appreciated by the owners of commercial buildings because it is very durable, long-standing and inexpensive. It is found in different forms that include aluminum, steel, copper and zinc, each of which has some unique properties. Metal roofing has a better fire, wind and severe weather resistance, and this is why it is best for commercial buildings. The material also has life and it is a one-time investment, the life cycle being 40-70 years.

Another advantage of metal roof is that they are an energy-efficient material. It reflects the sunlight heat, consequently, the cooling demand of the building is reduced, and hence energy cost is lower. Metal roofs are also 100% recyclable, and they can be a green choice. They are also considered maintenance-free and are capable of carrying heavy snow loads, and are therefore ideal for commercial structures in regions with harsh weather.

2. Single-ply Roofing (TPO, PVC & EPDM)

Single-ply roofing systems are yet another choice for commercial buildings as they provide a cheap and effective solution. This kind of roofing is made of one layer of membrane that is often TPO (Thermoplastic Polyolefin), PVC (Polyvinyl Chloride), or EPDM (Ethylene Propylene Diene Monomer). TPO and PVC are both white membranes which offers a good energy performance by reflecting heat from the sun. They are also long-lived between 20 and 30 years and require very little maintenance.

Unlike TPO and PVC, which are grey, EPDM is a black membrane to resist UV rays better and last for up to 40 years. One-ply roofing systems are light thus ideal in buildings with little structural support. They also resist chemicals, puncturing and tearing, hence, are a strong option for commercial buildings.

3. Modified Bitumen (Rubber Roofing)

Another popular option for flat or low-sloped commercial roofs is modified bitumen, more commonly known as rubber roofing. It is composed of asphalt, modifiers, and reinforcements and is available as a single, double, or triple ply system. These coatings provide improved strength, flexibility, and resistance to wind and UV rays. The life span of rubber roofing is 15-20 years and the roof are quite easy to install and maintain.

In addition, it is cheap and comes in different colors, thus offering a flexibility in design. Rubber roofing is also extremely resistant to fire and possesses excellent insulation characteristics which makes it a good thermal insulator. This attribute to expand and contract with temperature changes makes it a good choice for buildings in areas with severe climate.

4. Built-up Roof (BUR)

The built-up roofs (BUR) have been the standard roofing for commercial buildings for many years. They are multi-layered systems of bitumen, felts, and reinforcers that offer superior durability and weather resistance. BUR systems have very long-life span of up to 30 years and are excellent waterproofing materials that are particularly suitable for buildings with flat or low-sloped roofs.

The load-bearing characteristic of BUR systems is one of their major advantage allowing them to carry heavy loads, for instance, HVAC equipment and foot traffic, which is why they are appropriate for commercial buildings with high foot traffic. In addition, they can be personalized with different surfacing alternatives, for example, gravels or mineral granules, to provide further UV protection and to enhance the overall appearance of the building.

5. Asphalt Shingles

Asphalt shingles are an attractive roofing option for commercial buildings that have pitched roofs. They are cheap, are easy to set up and offer proper weather protection. Nevertheless, when compared to the other roofing options, they have a much shorter lifespan that can range between 15-20 years and they tend to require frequent repairs and maintenance.

The versatility in design is one of the main benefits of asphalt shingles. The varying colors, textures, and styles make them compatible with different architectural designs. They are lightweight as well as wind and hail resistant, which make them ideal for go downs and commercial buildings in areas prone to storms.

6. PVC Roofing

PVC roofing is a single-ply membrane that has excellent longevity and resistance to weather. It consists of two layers of PVC (polyvinyl chloride) which are reinforced by polyester or fiberglass. The compliance of such roof with the roof lifetime warranties usually is 30 years, it has a middle quality of fire and chemicals resistance. PVC roofing is also energy efficient since it reflects the sun’s heat and reduces cooling costs.

Besides, it is puncture-, tear-, and UV-resistant, which and hence it is the perfect material for commercial buildings. It also requires nearly no maintenance, and it can withstand extreme weather. However, PVC roofing is not suitable for the buildings with high traffic or the ones that have HVAC equipment since it can be damaged or punctured.

Conclusion

The choice of the right roof for your commercial building is crucial for its strength, energy efficiency, and overall appearance. Every type of roofing has its unique advantages and the suitable type of roofing for your building is influenced by factors such as location, budget, and architectural design. The professional consultation with the roofing contractor ensures the best choice of the solution for your commercial building. Quality materials and professional installation of a good quality roof can protect your business for many years, therefore, a good investment in the long run.