With spring just around the corner, now is the time to consider your new commercial roof options. Before investing in a roof, consider your specific roofing needs in relation to your commercial structure.
Considerations When Choosing Your Commercial Roofing System
The type of commercial property you own will also help you narrow down your ideal commercial roofing solution.
- What is the age of your building?
- Is it near any trees, power lines, or other obstructions?
- What is your budget for materials, installation, and long-term maintenance?
For example, apartment buildings typically have a pitched roof and require specific roofing materials. Alternatively, industrial structures often have a flat roof or a low roof slope.
7 Types of Commercial Roofs
Shingles
Shingles are a popular and inexpensive type of roofing material that are often used on homes. Shingles come in a variety of materials and may be appropriate for some commercial buildings.
Metal Roofing
Metal roofing is usually a good choice for sloped roofs, and it gives the house a clean look. They come in aluminum, copper, coated or stainless steel, tile sheets, and galvanized steel with ridges. Adding solar panels may provide an additional tax incentive.
Green Roofing Systems
A sustainable green roofing system is waterproof and has a long lifespan of 30 to 50 years. Green roofing has a modern water system and drainage system, and the government often pays for it. Green roofs can be more maintenance-intensive than some other roofing options.
Single-Ply Membrane Roofing
This type of roofing is applied as rubber or synthetic sheets. Single-Ply Membrane roofing is very durable, easy to install, and fire and pollution resistant. It works well on both flat and sloped commercial roofs. The roofing material is available in both black or white.
Modified Bitumen Roofing
Modified Bitumen Roofing is one of the best roofing systems available because it is energy efficient, waterproof, tear-resistant, holds up to foot traffic, and is easy to maintain. This system works particularly well for low-slope and flat roofs.
Thermoplastic Poly Vinyl Chloride (PVC) Roofing Systems
Thermoplastic Poly Vinyl Chloride (PVC) roofing systems are durable, puncture-resistant, lightweight, and heat-reflective. PVC roofs are fire resistant and are a very effective way to protect against high temperatures and winds.
Built-Up Roofing
Built-Up Roofing Systems can last 20+ years. Built-up systems are an excellent choice if you need an option that can withstand high foot traffic.
Other Commercial Roofing Considerations
Each roofing system will affect your overall energy costs in the short and long term. Some commercial roofing systems may offer the additional benefit of tax incentives. One system may cost significantly more but could last 10 to 30 more years than a less expensive option.
Consider the aesthetics you want for your building and how each system meets that need. Will the roof be used for anything, such as a community garden or a deck for employee lunches? These things need to be considered when choosing a commercial roofing system.
Choosing A Commercial Roofing Contractor
Do your research and choose a contractor with experience in a variety of roofing systems. Ask for references and actual examples of systems they’ve installed in your area. Find out if they also provide maintenance and emergency services as part of the price or as a separate contract.
