When you are in the market for a new roof for your commercial building, there are now many options available to consider. You want to choose a roof that meets certain basic requirements, including longevity, energy efficiency, and cost. There are 5 popular commercial roofing systems that are worth looking into depending on whether you have a flat or a pitched surface.
Built-Up Roofing
Built-up roofing systems, also referred to as tar and gravel, have been used on flat roof decks for at least 10 decades. A built-up roof is layers or plies of bitumen, asphalt, or tar that are then coated with gravel as the top layer. This type of roof is a continuous surface without seams. It offers both water and UV ray protection. It is also easy to maintain and can last for up to 40 years.
Single-Ply Membrane Roofing
A single-ply membrane or EPDM roof is the one that most commercial roofing contractors know how to install properly on flat surfaces. This system is comprised of rubber or synthetic sheets that can be mechanically fastened or chemically adhered to a layer of tapered rigid insulation. When properly installed, a membrane roof can offer your building protection for 30 years. These roofs offer good insulation value and can be either black, white, or color to absorb or reflect sunlight.
Metal Roofing
Metal roofing is really trending right now for pitched surfaces. The material can be steel, aluminum, or copper. These roofs are often standing seam style and are available in a wide variety of colors. This type of roof is lightweight and easy to install. One of the nicest things about a metal roof is its sustainability because it can be recycled.
Shingle Roofing
Another popular roof for sloped surfaces is asphalt or composition shingles. These systems are ideal for steep pitches. Shingles are also available in clay, plastic, slate, and wood. Asphalt shingles are the most common and cost-effective. An architectural grade asphalt shingle roof will generally last about 25 years. Shingle roofs are durable and easy to repair.
Spray Polyurethane Foam Roofing
Spray polyurethane foam, commonly referred to as SPF, is a liquid that is sprayed across either an existing roof or on a new roof deck. As it dries, it expands to form a single solid layer. SPF is appropriate for just about any climate. Foam provides a durable and energy-efficient surface that can last up to 50 years. As well, this material can be repaired and recoated, if necessary.
Whether you are installing a new roof or going over an existing roof on your commercial building, you have several options to choose from. Flat roof surfaces can accept built-up, membrane, or spray foam roof systems. Sloped or pitched surfaces are perfect for metal or shingles. Go for the most cost-effective solution that provides maximum protection and is durable.