Options In Commercial Roofing Systems For Your Building
Choosing the best commercial roofing system for your building is critical to ensuring quality roofing solutions that offer maximum durability, reliability, and longevity. In many cases, several roofing systems may be a good choice, with the additional features or cost savings offered by one or more solutions the key deciding factor.
Working with commercial roofing contractors with extensive experience in flat roofing systems and commercial roofing materials is a critical consideration. This eliminates the risk of general roofing contractors incorrectly installing or not advising you on the best roofing options.
What Type of Commercial Roofing Lasts the Longest?
One of the longest-lasting and most durable options in commercial roofing is metal. Metal roofing can last 60 years or more but is susceptible to corrosion, which may be an increased factor with industrial and processing types of facilities.
Metal roofing most commonly includes aluminum, corrugated galvanized steel, tin, or stainless steel. While this is a long-lasting roof, it does have a higher initial cost, which is often a deciding factor. Keep in mind, advanced options in metal roofs for commercial buildings can include solar system installation for LEED-certified buildings.
What is Rubber Roofing?
Rubber roofing is the more common name for EPDM or ethylene propylene diene terpolymer roofing. This is a membrane roofing solution that is cost-effective and an ideal solution for flat roofs and roofs with a low slope. This roofing can last 40 to 50 years if installed correctly and with the necessary draining systems in place on the roof.
It is available in white and black and applied in rolls on the roof, creating a seal over the existing roof. This material is resistant to water leaks, harsh weather conditions, and it offers good resistance to the damage caused by UV light. Rubber roofing is also resistant to many types of chemicals, including acid and alcohol solvents, which makes it a good choice for industrial buildings.
Are Asphalt Shingles an Effective Roofing Solution?
Commercial buildings that have a moderate to steep slope on the roof are ideal options for asphalt shingle roofing systems. These shingles will last twenty or more years when professionally installed, and they come in a wide variety of colors, styles, and materials to create an aesthetically pleasing roof for any commercial building.
Are There Other Roofing Materials for Commercial Buildings?
In addition to the roofing materials mentioned above, there are TPO (Thermoplastic Polyolefin) and PVC (Polyvinyl Chloride) roofing systems. These systems are extremely durable, cost-effective, and resistant to water, weather, and fire.
Spray-on roofing is another good choice. The polyurethane foam is sprayed onto the surface to create a solid, seamless layer. It requires regular maintenance, but with professional installation, this roof will last up to five decades or more.
As with all decisions, talk to a specialized commercial roofing contractor and discuss the pros and cons of various roofing solutions based on the specifics of your building.
