Most Common Commercial Roofing Types

When you are considering a new roof for a commercial, business, or retail space, there are several factors that you should look into. To begin with, look at the overall state of the structure. This will help when considering the weight of the new roof.

Also, keep in mind what type of weather is typical for the area, and whether having an energy-efficient roof is important. When you finally decide on the best commercial roofing type, you should have the peace of mind of knowing that it should last for over 50 years.

As you do your research into the best commercial roofing type for your premises, keep in mind that many cities have now established certain parameters that relate to the energy efficiency of a roof. Not following these guidelines may cause issues when trying to obtain the appropriate permit.

Another important consideration is your budget. It is a matter of weighing how much you are willing to sacrifice when it comes to cost vs durability or efficiency. Jackson Contracting knows that, if you focus solely on budget, you may save some money now only to find that you have to replace your roof sooner rather than later.

Talk to your commercial roofer to find the perfect balance between cost and durability. Here are some ideas to get started:

Metal Roofing

Metal roofing has gained popularity due to its durability. When properly installed with purlins, you can count on a lifespan of between 40 and 60 years. To make this an even more appealing option, some metal roofs have a snow removal system or solar panels integrated into them. Also, they come in many different styles and colors to match the architectural style of the rest of the structure.

Metal roofs can be made from copper, aluminum, coated or stainless steel, tin, zinc, or corrugated galvanized steel. When adding a protective surface layer, metal roofs become much more resistant to damage from moisture or sun exposure.

Shingles

Although most commonly seen on residential properties, shingles go well on buildings that have steep roof lines. Their price is not only much more affordable than other roofing options, but they also come in a wide variety of materials like slate, ceramic, plastic, or the very popular asphalt, and can be found in the color that best matches your building’s style.

Spray-On Roofing

Made from polyurethane foam that is sprayed on, this roofing material starts off as a liquid and instantly expands to harden into a solid layer. It is easy to apply on top of an existing roof, it is waterproof and adds insulation. This makes it very appealing in all sorts of climates and you can expect it to last about 50 years.

Green Roof

Installing a green roof means starting with a tough waterproof membrane that is later covered by plants. Green roofs are great at improving air quality and may also offer a green space for employees to relax and rest.

Although this type of roof does require monitoring and maintenance, it may be worth it if your local government is offering incentives for installing a green roof. To help it reach its full potential, you should consider installing water and drainage capabilities.

Built-Up Roofing Membrane

This roofing type is inexpensive and easy to repair. It is also one of the oldest and most flexible commercial roofing types. You can expect it to last around 20 years. It is UV-resistant and can also be coated to reflect heat.

Thermoset EPDM Membrane

Ethylene Propylene Diene Terpolymer (EPDM) is a roofing material that comes in rolls. It is made of a synthetic rubber membrane, is recommended for areas where sun and pollution are a concern, and is versatile and easy to install. However, it can be easily punctured, either from falling debris or by people walking on it.

Thermoplastic PVC and TPO Roof Membranes

Thermoplastic Polyolefin (TPO) and Poly Vinyl Chloride (PVC) roofing materials are good at resisting UV light, chemicals, and bacterial growth. They are puncture-resistant, lightweight, and great at reflecting heat. They are also fire-resistant and can tolerate both high temperatures and strong winds.

Make sure you get the right quality PVC or TPO since there are many cheap, poorly made products around. As these roofing options have grown in popularity, several small manufacturers have attempted to create their own versions, often leaving quality aside. If this is your preferred option, talk to your roofer about this concern and make sure to get a quality product that will last a long time.

Home Base Project Team
Home Base Project Team
At The Home Base Project, we offer practical, real-life tips and inspiration about DIY, decorating and gardening. The Home Base Project provide the best information about home renovation and design, connecting home design enthusiasts and home professionals across the world.