Everything You Need to Know About Commercial Roofing

Commercial Roofing 101

A commercial roofing system consists of all the aspects involved in commercial buildings, from the design, structure, and construction, to the installation and maintenance. This type of roofing is also called corporate or institutional roofing and has to be installed by commercial roof maintenance company that will help you get quality materials and put in the time and effort needed. If finding a suitable service is proving to be a difficult task, the commercial roofing service in Tomball is available 24/7 to help you out!

Although commercial roofing is relatively similar to residential roofing when it comes to protecting property, their differences are displayed in the materials they are made of and installed with. Commercial roofing systems consist of concrete, single-ply (PVC, EPDM, TPO), modified bitumen, tar, gravel, a built-up system and more. On the other hand, tiles made of concrete or asphalt shingles are what usually make up residential roofs. 

Types of Commercial Roofing Systems

1. Built-Up Roofing

‘BUR’ roof or Built-up roofing is constructed with tar and gravel. It allows numerous layers or piles in order to give stability to your system and increase its longevity. Preferred for low-slope and flat roofs, built-up roofing is one of the best options for its durability and low cost. 

2. Metal Roofing

Available in a wide variety of materials, metal roofing is one of the most popular commercial roofing options on the market today. Its notability is due to its durable and fire-resistant characteristics. In addition, the layers it is composed of help protect against rust and environmental elements like sun exposure. Metal roofing materials consist of metal tile sheets, stainless, stone-coated, silicon-coated and corrugated galvanized steel. Copper, zinc, aggregates of aluminum, and tin are also available. So if you are looking for a sustainable option, metal roofing may be the way to go!

3. Thermoset EPDM Roofing

Also called EPDM roofing, this kind of commercial roofing is more adaptable to different situations and is comparatively easier to maintain than others. Created from ethylene propylene diene monomer (EPDM) single-ply rubber material, its installation procedure is simple and straightforward. In addition to versatility, EPDM roofing is resistant to ozone/ultraviolet light, acids, alcohol and some other solvents. Its reflective qualities can even help you save money on cooling costs.

4. Modified Bitumen Roofing

Modified bitumen roofs or mod-bit roofing provides better tensile strength and simple maintenance than other commercial roofs. It consists of a combination of asphalt and chemical polymer, helping increase flexibility and resistance to extreme temperatures. It allows numerous layers of self-adhesive sheets, torch-applied/cold-applied adhesives, and hot-mopped asphalt. The most suitable option for installation during any season, mod-bit roofing can easily be constructed in a hot or cold climate. In addition, it also protects against natural elements like hail, fire, wind, rain and storm damage. 

5. Green Roofing 

More and more awareness about green roofs has increased their popularity among property owners during the last couple of years. Not only does the material enhance efficiency, but this kind of roofing is also one of the best nature-friendly roofing options available on the market today. So if you want to avoid any water damage concerns, reduce energy expenses, and make your commercial building look modern at the same time, you may want to consider green roofing.

6. Spray Polyurethane Foam Roofing 

SPF Roofing involves a liquid coating sprayed evenly on top of the roof, after which it foams, expands, and solidifies into a firm layer. This process and structure mean there are no joints or seams, increasing its lifespan.  Although many people may not be aware of SPF roofing today, commercial, industrial, and residential facilities are getting constructed with this technology since the 1960s. The main advantages of this system are its ability to withstand any climate and its functioning efficiently for over 50 years when maintained and installed properly.

Factors To Consider

The roof is the space that protects your building from sunlight and other potentially harmful elements. Taking health and safety seriously means doing the proper research and relying on experts to provide those essentials. Consider some crucial factors before making your decision:

• Identify the type of roof you need
• Set a budget for the amount you want to spend
• In-depth research of your service provider
• Find out if they offer repair and maintenance
• Check company certifications 
• Choose your materials
• Create a service schedule
• Finalize payment method

Commercial Roofing Vs Residential Roofing

We started this article with how commercial roofing systems and residential roofs have the same primary role. However, that may be the only similarity between them. The slope of commercial roofs and residential roofs is the most significant aspect that sets the two apart. This is because the slope of the roof depends on the size of the building. As a result, residences/houses which are smaller, tend to have steep, easily visible slopes that consist of materials like asphalt shingles and slate tiles. 

Whereas commercial roofs are usually flat or slightly tilted and may not be visible from ground level due to their size. These types of roofs come in a wide variety, constructed with various materials which are chosen by considering aspects like the climate of the area, natural elements like the wind, extreme heat/cold, whether it has high foot traffic, etc. 

Conclusion

Since the number of commercial roofing service options continues to rise, you can do your research and choose an experienced contractor you can rely on. Commercial roofing can become a bigger project, so you can use this guide to learn all the necessary details before deciding to get the roof of your property changed/installed. Ensure that your chosen service has the knowledge and skills required to work with your specific type of roof and inspect it regularly after completing the job.