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one example of types of commerical roofing
Charleston RoofingJun 17, 2022 10:15:00 AM4 min read

Types of Commercial Roofing: Which One is Best for You?

There are many different types of commercial roofing available on the market today. Which roofing system is best for your business? That can be a difficult question to answer, but we will try to provide some guidance in this blog post. We will discuss the four most common types of commercial roofing systems: flat roofs, metal roofs, single-ply roofs, and built-up roofs. Each type has its own advantages and disadvantages, so you will need to decide which one is best for your specific needs.

Shapes of Commerical Roofing Systems

 

Flat or Low-Slope Roofs

Flat roofs are the most common type of roofing systems. They are easy to install and maintain, and they are very affordable. However, flat roofs can be susceptible to leaking, so you will need to make sure that your roof is properly insulated and ventilated.

They are common in shopping centers and are come with several roofing materials for commercial roofing, including:

  • EPDM roofing (Ethylene Propylene Diene Monomer), a synthetic rubber that is popular in many commercial roofs because it is flexible, durable resistant to sunlight, ozone, and extreme temperatures.
  • PVC roofing (Polyvinyl Chloride), made of a chemical that comes in a variety of colors and shapes. Waterproof, resistant to chemicals, UV, and fire. Common in many commercial buildings.
  • TPO roofing, (Thermoplastic Polyolefin), flexible in colder temperatures, this heat-resistant roofing material usually comes with a 20-year warranty, extending the life of a commercial roof.
commercial flat roofs

Steep-Slope Roofs

This roof system is more common in homes, but are sometimes used in commercial properties. They are made of several materials, such as:

  • Asphalt Shingles, the most popular roofing material in America. They are easy to install and come in a variety of colors.
  • Wood Shingles or Shakes, these give a rustic look to any property.
  • Clay or Concrete Tiles, very popular in Europe and South America. They are durable and last a long time, but they can be very heavy.
  • Metal Roofing Systems, You will see this type of roofing on industrial buildings or warehouses. They are made of steel, aluminum, or copper and can last up to 50 years with proper maintenance.

installing a metal roofing systems

Commercial Roofing Types

 

Metal Roofs

Metal roofing is used for low-slope and steep roofs, they are becoming a popular roofing system in commercial applications. Metal roofs are very durable and can last for many years. They are also fire and wind-resistant and can reflect heat, which can help keep your building cooler in the summer. However, metal roofs can be very noisy, so you will need to make sure that your building is soundproof if you choose this type of roofing.

Metal roofing is durable and long-lasting, and typically the most aesthetic roof among commercial roofing. The lifespan of a metal roof increases if a protective coating is applied. There are many types of coating, but urethane and polyurethane provide the most strength.

Single-Ply Roofs

Single-ply roofs are very lightweight low-slope roofs that are easy to install, but they can be more expensive than other types of roofing. Single-ply roofs are also not as durable as some of the other options, so you will need to make sure that your roof is well-maintained.

This type of roofing is made of a single layer of single-ply membrane. Types of membranes include EPDM, PVC, and TPO. These roofs are very flexible and resistant to cracks and peeling. A commercial single-ply membrane roof can last up to 30 years with proper maintenance.

Modified Bitumen Roofing Systems

A modified bitumen roof is a low-slope roofing system, it consists of asphalt and polymerized rubber or plastic, reinforced with fiberglass to create a waterproof barrier. It can be installed during any season. They are weather and temperature resistant, and can also reflect harmful sunlight.

This type of roof is easy to repair and can last up to 20 years with proper maintenance. With several layers to protect it from the elements, it is a very popular commercial roofing system. Unlike many other flat roofs, this roof is leak-resistant. It is also tear-resistant due to the fiberglass material.

 

Built-Up Roofing Systems

They are very durable low-slope roofs and can last for many years. However, built-up roofs can be very heavy, so you will need to make sure that your building is able to support the weight. Built-up roofs can also be more expensive than other types of roofing.

Also called BUR or tar and gravel roofs, built-up roofs are made of multiple layers of asphalt and other materials. Typically made of three parts, including bitumen material, ply sheets, and topped with surfacing materials such as small stones to protect it from the elements and to make it safe to walk on.

They are common in many commercial roofs because they are durable, waterproof, resistant to extreme weather conditions, and easy to repair.

new roof on commercial buildings

Commercial roofing is a big decision with many factors to consider. We hope this blog post has helped you narrow down the options and choose the best type of roofing for your business. Contact us today if you need any more help or information. Thanks for reading!

 

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