Types of Commercial Roofing
Commercial roofs serve the critical function of protecting the contents and occupants of a building. They are typically larger than residential roofs and are fabricated with different materials.
Purchasing a new or replacement commercial roof is a complex process. Several factors must be considered, including cost, durability, and energy efficiency.
Metal is popular for commercial roofing due to its durability, long lifespan, energy efficiency, variant styles, and environmental sustainability. It is also experiencing a surge in popularity as facility executives evaluate lifecycle costs when choosing building materials.
Unlike traditional shingle roofs requiring frequent repairs and replacement, a metal roof can last 60 years or more with minimal maintenance. This reduces the need for costly roof upkeep and replacement, significantly reducing operational costs.
Many metal roofs are designed to be insulated, further reducing energy bills and increasing building comfort. In addition, they can help satisfy green-building goals, which are becoming increasingly important for corporate and municipal clients.
In terms of sustainability, metal is a great option because it is 100 percent recyclable. It is also durable enough to resist corrosion and other damage from weathering. As a result, it can be used over existing roofs, eliminating the need for expensive tear-offs and waste disposal.
Most metal roofs can be fabricated on site using a standing seam design, making them easy to install and requiring less labor. They are also resistant to rot, mildew, and pests, which makes them easier to maintain than other types of roofing.
There are many different types of metal roofing, including galvanized steel, aluminum, and copper. Some offer an aesthetic that resembles traditional shingles, while others can be made to look more modern or industrial. A wide range of colors are available to suit any design or visual preference.
Another advantage of metal roofing is that it can withstand harsh weather conditions, such as freezing winters and sweltering summers. It is also fire-resistant, which is an especially important benefit in areas prone to wildfires.
If you are interested in upgrading your commercial building with a metal roof, contact Maxwell Roofing & Sheet Metal today to learn more about the options and get a quote. We provide installation services for both standing seam and membrane roofs, and we can also help you choose the right insulation to maximize your energy efficiency. We also fabricate a variety of other structural components for commercial buildings, including doors, windows, and walls.
A popular roofing choice for flat roofs, membrane systems offer longevity and durability. These single-ply applications come in various materials and surfacing options to meet the needs of different types of buildings.
Membrane roofing is an ideal solution for low-slope or flat roofs, as it provides a watertight seal. This is especially important on flat roofs, where water doesn’t shed as quickly as it does on higher-pitched roofs. Membrane roofs also have other features that make them more durable than other flat roof methods, including their ability to hold up to chemicals and UV radiation.
PVC (Polyvinyl Chloride) membranes, also known as “PVC sheets,” are highly resilient and versatile. They are often found on industrial and commercial flat roofs as they offer excellent resistance to punctures, tears, thermal shock, and building movement. PVC membranes are also very durable and have a high level of fire resistance.
EPDM (Ethylene Propylene Diene Monomer) is another popular choice for a single-ply application in commercial roofing. Its lower cost than PVC and good resistance to weather permeability are just two of the reasons why this membrane is an excellent option for many commercial applications.
TPO (Thermoplastic Polyolefin) membranes are growing in popularity as they are an eco-friendly roofing solution that helps to reduce energy costs. These membranes can be installed as either mechanically attached systems or fully adhered. TPO membranes are extremely easy to install and are well-suited for low-slope roofs, as they can be adhered directly to the insulation layer of the roof.
In addition, TPO offers exceptional flexibility and resistance to chemicals and ultraviolet light. Its durability makes it an ideal choice for both new and existing roofs.
Another membrane option is liquid applied roofing, which is sprayed on and dries quickly. Liquid applied roofing can be used on both low-slope and flat roofs and is particularly beneficial for hard-to-reach areas of the building. Liquid applied roofing is also able to withstand a wide range of temperatures and chemicals, making it an ideal solution for roofs that will see heavy use.
Single-ply membrane roofs are one of the most popular commercial roofing applications. They offer a cost-effective, durable solution to low and flat-sloped roofs. They also have high stability and uplift protection. In addition, they require far fewer seams than traditional asphaltic rolled roof systems and are easy to install. Single-ply roofs are also more lightweight than many other types of commercial roofing. They also feature a wide range of prefabricated detailing accessories.
Two of the most common single-ply membranes are TPO and EPDM. They differ in chemical makeup, installation options, and energy efficiency. Both provide superior weathering resistance and can stand up to a wide range of chemicals. In addition, these systems can be heated and welded to make seams and to secure the membrane to the insulation layer and roof deck.
PVC and TPO are thermoplastic membranes, which means that they can be welded together using hot air welding tools. This allows the contractor to make fast repairs and seal leaks in a timely manner. Both systems have great flexibility, making them easier to install around roof penetrations. They can also be heat-molded around the edges of a roof to prevent peeling.
These systems have a smooth surface and are easy to clean. They also resist fungus, algae and insects. In addition, they are highly puncture resistant and can resist the effects of UV radiation. These features make them an excellent choice for areas with dramatic weather changes.
Both PVC and TPO are also resistant to most chemicals, fire, and water. They can withstand strong winds and are naturally reflective. These systems are also easy to repair and maintain.
There are a number of different single-ply membranes available, depending on your specific needs and climate. Some of these include SBS, APP and EPDM. SBS is a bituminous system that has been modified with rubber, which helps the material remain flexible in cold temperatures. APP is a similar option, but it can be installed year-round without the need for a heated installation process.
EPDM is a synthetic rubber that is cured to create a chemical bond. This makes it extremely durable and long-lasting. It is also an economical choice because it can be installed in a variety of ways and comes in a wide range of colors and thicknesses. It can even be glued to the substrate to reduce installation costs.
The roof of a commercial property is its first line of defense. It protects all the contents below it from damage and decay caused by water, fire, ice and extreme weather conditions. This is why a well-maintained and high quality roof is vital to the success of any business. A roof in disrepair can cause a host of problems from contaminating sterile areas to increasing operational costs. It can also pose a threat to the safety of employees and visitors.
The type of roofing material used for an industrial property will depend on the building’s use. For example, an industrial property that uses volatile chemicals may benefit from a built-up roof that provides excellent chemical resistance. This type of roof can also be equipped with a secondary containment system in the event of a leak.
An industrial roof can be made of many different types of materials but is typically designed with a low slope. This means that fewer roof maintenance tasks will need to be carried out. Thermoplastic membranes such as EPDM and PVC are ideal for this type of roofing because they are resistant to a wide range of chemicals, flames, and oils. They also offer excellent weathering, puncture or tear resistance, and dimensional stability.
Other common types of roofs for an industrial property include modified bitumen and green roofs. Modified bitumen is an asphalt-based material that comes in sheets and can be fastened to a roof using various methods including fully adhered, mechanically attached or ballasted. These systems are designed with layers that perform multiple functions such as weatherproofing, reinforcement and surfacing.
Green roofs are becoming increasingly popular in the commercial industry and provide a variety of benefits. They can be a good choice for an industrial property because they help to reduce energy bills, improve air quality and reduce the risk of flooding and debris build-up. In addition to this, they can be fitted with insulation and drainage systems which can further increase their performance. This type of roof can be constructed with a variety of materials and is often designed with an organic layer to provide additional protection against UV radiation.
