5 Most Common Commercial Roofing Types
There are many different types of commercial roofing systems available to the modern business owner. However, it’s hard to pick your preferred roofing type if you know nothing about commercial roof types. Read on to learn about the most common commercial roofing types in the market and their pros.
1. Metal Roofing
Metal roofing is a popular commercial roof choice due to its incredible durability. Commercial roofing metals include steel, zinc, aluminum, and copper. Copper and zinc roofing can last 100 years. You will get value for money when you install a metal roof on your commercial building.
Metal roofing is available in multiple color options to match your architectural roof design. And if you prefer a low-sloped or pitched roof on your commercial building, you can’t go wrong with a metal roofing system.
2. Single-Ply Roofing
Most clients prefer to have flat roofs on their commercial buildings. If you prefer flat roofs over pitched roofs, you should consider a single-ply roofing system. This roof type has been the go-to option for clients with flat or low-slope roofs. You can install a single-ply membrane by ballasting, mechanical attachment, or adhesives.
Single-ply membranes are available in the following types:
- Thermoplastic Olefin (TPO)
- Polyvinyl Chloride (PVC)
- Ethylene Propylene Diene Terpolymer (EPDM)
But why would you choose a single-ply membrane system over other roofing options? This type of commercial roof is highly durable, cost-effective, easy to install, eco-friendly, fire-resistant, versatile, lightweight, and UV resistant.
3. Shingles
Have you ever noticed that most residential buildings have shingle roofing? Well, shingles are the most popular residential roofing material in America. You can also use shingles on commercial properties with pitched roofs.
Asphalt and architectural shingle roofs are ideal fits for commercial roofing. Both types of shingles are available in different colors. You can purchase shingles that mimic slate, shakes, or tile.
Besides improving your building’s curb appeal, a shingle roofing system will lower utility costs due to its energy efficiency. Moreover, architectural roof shingles are durable and have excellent wind resistance capabilities.
4. Green Roofing
A green roof allows your commercial building to stand out from the rest. And if you care a lot about aesthetics, a green roof won’t disappoint you. The green plants will make your flat roof an excellent place for employees to unwind.
Before contractors cover your flat roof with green plants, they must install a waterproof membrane. The membrane prevents water from leaking into the roof.
Additionally, green roofs have incredible energy efficiency, meaning you won’t spend a fortune trying to moderate the temperature of your commercial building. However, you must invest in routine maintenance to keep the green roof looking nice.
5. Built-Up Roofing Membrane (BUR)
Built-up roofing is the oldest type of commercial roof. This type of commercial roof has existed for over a century. Built-up roofing systems consist of several layers of tar and gravel. Amazingly, you can choose the number of layers you want. Remember that installing only a few layers might affect your roof’s durability. But if you want more layers, be prepared to incur a greater cost.
Built-up roofing systems are long-lasting and can hold a lot of weight. Therefore, you don’t have to worry about foot traffic or mounting HVACs on a BUR system. You should also not worry about repairs as they are cheap.
Choosing the ideal roof type for your commercial building can be hectic. But since you have explored the various types of roofs and their attributes, you won’t encounter challenges when shopping for a roof. Besides, you can purchase commercial roofing materials from Donny’s Roofing and Home Improvement. Call us today to learn more about commercial roofing materials.