8 of the Most Common Commercial Roofing Materials
Is your commercial building looking for a new roof? If so, you’re likely considering what material to use. There are a variety of commercial roofing materials on the market, each with its own benefits and drawbacks.
The type of material you choose will affect the overall health of your commercial building. So you need to understand the materials that will be most suitable for your property.
Whether you’re replacing your leaking commercial roof or newly installing a roof on your building, the available commercial roofing materials will overwhelm you. In today’s post, we’ll guide you through the most common commercial roofing materials to make your decision-making easier.
1. Metal
Metal is one of the most popular types of roofing materials for commercial buildings. Metal roofing comes in different types. The most common ones include stainless steel, aluminum, copper, tile sheets, and galvanized steel.
The main advantage of choosing metal roofing for your commercial buildings is that it has a longer lifespan. This type of roofing will also give your building an appealing, finished look. They’re also fire-resistant and reflect heat.
Metal roofs have a downside in that they can rust after some time. They can be expensive to install and may require special training. So, you should consider hiring a roofing company that has experience in installing commercial metal roofs.
2. Built-up Roofing
Built-up roofing (BUR) is another type of commercial roofing that has been around for a long time. This system uses multiple layers of materials, which are usually asphalt and gravel, to create a durable, weather-resistant surface.
The main advantage of built-up roofing materials is that they’re very strong. They’re also fire-resistant and cost-effective. It can also withstand roof traffic, especially if the understructure is stable.
BUR roofing materials have a disadvantage in that they have a short lifespan. They can be difficult to repair because of their multiple layers. So, if your built-up roof starts leaking, you may have a hard time identifying the source of the leak.
But the leakage shouldn’t worry you because there are experienced commercial roofing contractors that can fix your roof easily. An example is HP Roofing Pro which is an expert in fixing leaking commercial roofs.
3. Shingles
You might think that shingles are only appropriate for residential property. However, they can be a great option for your commercial buildings. You’ll find shingles made of different materials, such as ceramic, metal, slate, and wood.
They’re the best option if you want to enhance the aesthetic appeal of your commercial roof. This is because this type of roofing comes in different colors and shapes. Shingles are easy to install, so they can reduce the cost of installing a roof.
The downside of shingle roofing is that its lifespan may be short. So you’ll have to invest more in replacing a roof to keep it looking its best. Your shingled roof will also be more susceptible to damage by moss and mildew.
4. Green Roof
A green roof is a type of roofing material that is specifically designed to allow vegetation to grow on it. Green roofs can be either intensive or extensive, depending on the amount of vegetation you desire.
Green roofs have an advantage in that they can reduce stormwater runoff. They’ll also insulate your building and improve the air quality.
However, green roofs can be expensive to install and maintain. You’ll need to schedule regular maintenance and monitor the roof on an ongoing basis. They might also require special training for installation.
5. Thermoset EPDM Membrane
EPDM is short for “ethylene propylene diene monomer,” a synthetic rubber membrane used for commercial roofing. EPDM is black or white in color, very durable, and is available in both smooth and textured finishes.
EPDM is resistant to chemicals, ozone, ultraviolet rays, and high winds. This resistance means it’s an ideal choice if your commercial building is in a harsh environment. It is also one of the most affordable commercial roofing options on the market, making it a great choice if you’re on a budget.
But, EPDM membranes are not pretty, and you may not like them if you want an aesthetically appealing roof. Furthermore, they can be difficult to repair if they’re damaged.
6. Spray-On Foam
Spray-on foam is a type of roof coating that is applied to the roof in a spray form. It is made from acrylic or polyurethane. You can apply it to various roofing materials, including metal, asphalt, and concrete.
Spray-on roofing is popular because it’s easy to apply and it dries quickly. The main advantage you’ll gain from choosing spray-on roofing is that it is waterproof. The materials will also add an insulating layer to your commercial property.
However, the roofing type may not be suitable if your building is in an area with unfavorable conditions. It may not work well in areas that have snow for the better part of the year.
7. PVC Membrane
PVC is short for “polyvinyl chloride,” a type of plastic that is used in many different industries. PVC roofing membranes are strong, flexible, and durable. They’re also resistant to fire, chemicals, and high winds.
This roofing material is lightweight and reflects heat to prevent your building from overheating. It is also resistant to punctures.
On the downside, some roofing companies might shortchange you and sell you low-quality materials. To avoid pouring your money down the drains, only work with a reputable manufacturer or roofing company.
8. Modified Bitumen
Among the many types of roofing materials available, modified bitumen is one of the most popular. This material consists of a layer of asphalt that is reinforced with fiberglass or polyester.
Your modified-bitumen roofs will be more durable and resistant to extreme weather conditions such as high temperatures. This roof will also be easy to install as it only involves a two-layer installation.
However, the roofing material’s life expectancy is low. The modified bitumen may also have an odor when installing it. When installing the roof, there is a danger of fire breakouts because the installation company will need to use a blow torch.
Choosing the Right Commercial Roofing Materials
Our article outlines eight of the most common commercial roofing materials you can consider.
When choosing a roofing material for your property, consider the climate, your budget, and the aesthetic appeal you’re going for. Also, consult with a professional roofing contractor to get their expert opinion on which roofing system is best suited for your building.
Be sure to check out other informative articles on our website.
