The main difference between residential and commercial roofing is the slope of the roof, which serves the same purpose of sheltering buildings or homes from outside elements. Residential roofs generally use materials like architectural tile, asphalt shingles, and slate and have a high slope roof visible from the ground. Depending on the building’s construction and weather conditions, commercial roofs typically have flat or little sloped ceilings and come in various materials.
Commercial roofing specialists like Roofer Grand Island know the best solution based on the job’s requirements and stay current with technological developments.
New roofing materials for business buildings have been developed that offer strong resistance to temperature extremes and maximize environmental efficiency, lowering stormwater runoff and energy costs. Consider the type of building you are working with and the decision-making process when deciding on the industrial roofing system for your company among the ones listed below.
Commercial Roofing Systems With Single-Ply Membranes
One of the most common kinds of roofing materials is single-ply membranes. They are robust and resistant to holes and leakage because they are constructed from a single layer of solid material. Additionally, relatively light in weight, single-ply roofing membranes are simple to place. PVC, TPO, and EPDM are a few of the most widely used single-ply membrane varieties.
Pros
It is Long-lasting and leak- and tear-resistant.
Portable and simple to set up.
Cons
Possibly less attractive than other kinds of covering materials.
Few color choices.
Coating Of Elastomeric Seamless (Spray Foam Roofing)
Spray liquid-applied foam roofing is known as seamless elastomeric coverings. One layer of elastic material makes up this unusual material. The roofing foam creates a seamless elastomeric membrane as the liquid roof coating is sprayed with a spray gun. It develops into a solid, leak- and tear-resistant, architectural solid fabric.
Pros
Long-lasting and leak- and tear-resistant.
It is very simple and can be sprayed in a single coat.
Cons
It’s less attractive than other kinds of covering materials.
Few color choices.
Asphalt Roofing
Asphalt shingles are an additional standard option for business roofs because they are inexpensive and strong. Although other kinds of shingles are available, most clients select 3-tab or architectural shingles made of asphalt. These shingles are made of felt paper or fiberglass coated in asphalt, a viscous, dark liquid combined with minerals to produce a water-resistant and weather-resistant substance. Mineral granules are frequently applied to asphalt shingles to give them a finished appearance and increase their lifespan by shielding them from the sun’s UV rays.
Pros
Durable and affordable.
There are numerous color options offered.
Cons
Possibly less long-lasting than more costly industrial roofing systems.
A metal roof
Many companies and other commercial structures have metal roofs. They are very sturdy and require little to no care to last many years. In addition to being resistant to harm from fire, wind, and rain, commercial metal roofs are a good choice for structures in areas where these kinds of weather events are expected. Steel, aluminum, and copper are just a few of the metal roofing options that are accessible.
Pros
Extremely robust and long-lasting.
Fire, wind, and storm damage-resistant
Several options for colors and styles are offered.
Cons
Costlier than other industrial roofing materials are typical.
Maintenance expenses could be more expensive than with other roofing materials.
Modified Bitumen Roofing (MB)
Modified bitumen, or MB roofing, is a material composed of asphalt and fiberglass. The fiberglass and asphalt are melted to produce a substance covering the roof. Because it is durable and flexible enough to cope with the damage that comes with this type of use, MB roofing is frequently used on commercial structures. Additionally, it can be set up in numerous methods, such as mechanically secured, fully adhered, or ballasted.
Pros
It can be set up in different ways.
Cons
More prone to leaks because of the challenging implementation.
Possibly less attractive than other kinds of covering materials.
Less durable than other industrial roofs.
Roofs With Built-Up Tar And Gravel (Or BUR)
Tar and Gravel Construction For over a century, roofing has been a widely used form of commercial roofing. A layer of tar or asphalt, reinforcing fabric, and gravel comprise the three or more layers of material consisting of this covering. The layers are placed on each other to make a waterproof seal and then heated.
Pros
It is highly robust and long-lasting.
It can be installed over a variety of surfaces kinds.
There are numerous color options offered.
Simple to restore.
Cons
It’s less attractive than other kinds of covering materials.
Significantly increase the weight of rooftops.
Thermoplastic Polyolefin (TPO)
This material contains reinforced roof sheets with heat-welded seams and high reflective properties and is most frequently used on low-slope rooftops in North America. TPO is a single-ply membrane usually made of polypropylene, and rubber is made of ethylene-propylene and polypropylene. The most common hues for TPO, which belong to the thermoplastic membrane family, are white, grey, and tan. The membrane can be placed in several ways, such as mechanical attachment, adhesion, and ballasting.
Pros
It is inexpensive.
It is Easy to install due to its lightweight.
Cons
Do not suitable when subjected to high heat.
Polyvinyl Chloride (PVC)
A polyester reinforcement scrim is sandwiched between two pieces of PVC (polyvinyl chloride) roofing material. The membrane is made UV resistant thanks to additives in the upper ply. Installation is made simpler by the synthetic plasticizers in the bottom ply, which is usually darker and more flexible. Longevity, toughness, and fire protection are additional advantages of a PVC membrane.
PVC can be welded to an adjacent sheet, rendering it watertight, and it is also weldable. By fusing a pre-made rib to the surface of PVC sheets, it is possible to produce the appearance of a standing seam roof system at a significantly lower cost. PVC membranes can also be recycled and used to make fresh sheets.
Pros
Strong and long-lasting.
Resistant to chemicals and other hazards.
Cons
Installation requires the complete removal of an old roof.
Problems occur with climatic changes.
Conclusion
As you can see, numerous materials are available for business roofs, each with advantages and disadvantages of their own. Understanding the various kinds is crucial if you need to replace or repair your existing business roofing system.
When deciding what kind of industrial roofing system your company needs, there are several things to consider. The sort of property you are using must also be considered because various types of companies require different structuring. Your decision-making process will be assisted by becoming familiar with the different kinds of commercial roofing systems that are easily accessible.