The roofing industry is in a period of huge growth and this is set to increase in the coming years. As utilities increase in price and a move towards eco-friendly design has taken place, people are realizing the benefit of an efficient roof. But which one is best for your property?
With so many variables in place, it helps to know your options. Read on as we discuss the types of commercial roofs.
1. Built-up Roofing
Built-up roofing (BUR) is the most common type of roof and has been around for a long time. Its materials and their efficiency have increased as time has gone on. The principle of placing multiple layers one on top of another has remained the same.
Modern BUR roofing consists of three main parts: Bitumen material, ply sheets and various surfacing materials. Bitumen can come hot or cold, in which case it is much more like an adhesive. Cold built-up roofing tends to have better performance.
After the bitumen, ply sheets sit over the sealing bitumen. They are often about 36 inches thick and fiberglass and natural materials make up their bulk.
Finally, the outer surface gets applied. Fine gravel or stones are the usual choices. Not only do they give a finished look to the roof, but they also protect it from sunlight and anything that may impact it.
This is a basic method and BUR roofing can have multiple layers depending upon the wants and needs. It can last for anywhere from 15 to 30 years.
2. Metal Roofing
Metal roofing is very popular due to the types of material it encompasses. They are very strong, durable, and have a high resistance to fire. All of this comes with a sustainable design and a modern, finished look.
Protective surface layers are often added to metal roofing. This is because it has the tendency to rust and weaken when exposed to the elements. For this reason, when choosing metal roofing you need careful consideration with local experts who know the climate and geography.
- Aluminum
- Copper
- Corrugated Metal
- Standing Seam
- Tin
- Zinc Metal
Copper roofing is the most expensive option by a long way. Aluminum is popular, durable and the lowest cost option.
Metal roofing also encompasses the use of metal shingles on a roof surface. Generally, these are made from aluminum, combining the benefits of metal with a shingle build roof. A quality commercial roofing company will be able to advise you on this.
3. Modified Bitumen Roofing
Modified bitumen roofing is very closely related to the BUR roofing system. It is for low sloping or flat roof structures. MBR roofing has superior water and weatherproofing qualities.
The system employs five layers to add protection, starting with the insulation. Its job is to provide temperature regulation and stability to the roof. On top of this sits the base sheets and ply.
Membranes made from modified bitumen come next. They are often reinforced with fiberglass and polyester.
Hot or cold bonding agent seals in the same process used in BUR roofing. A final layer of surfacing on top of this gives the roof its UV protection and weathering resistance.
4. Shingle Roofing
Shingle is most common in residential roofing. However, if you have a steep roof on your building then shingles can also be one of the best commercial roofs. While shingles can be made from a number of different materials, asphalt and architecture are the main types.
Asphalt shingles will be on most roofing systems you see. They are low-cost and have a longevity of around 15 to 30 years.
Architectural shingles will have a much heavier build quality and will be placed in multiple layers. All of this brings increased weatherproofing and durability. They are often sold with lifetime warranties making them one of the best roof replacement choices for longevity.
Both types of shingles have a number of advantages. They can come in a wide range of colors, making it easy to theme them to the color of the property and its surroundings. Any damage is also cheap to repair and easy to spot.
5. Single Ply Membrane
Single-ply membranes are large sheets made from synthetic materials. They are attached to the roof through ballasting, mechanics, or adhesives. Placed on top of the insulation, they provide solid protection for any roof.
As the type of material can be changed, there are a number of options to suit a wide range of budgets. Along with the ability to select your choice of insulation, a range of combinations are available.
Single-ply sheets can be classified into EPDM and TPO. The main difference is that EPDM has a dark surface. In summer, this means it absorbs heat.
TPO has a white, reflective surface. As a result, it deflects heat in summer. The outcome is that TPO is often more energy-efficient, allowing commercial air con to work better.
6. Spray Polyurethane Foam
One of the best commercial roofs gaining popularity because of its eco-friendly properties is spray polyurethane foam. Abbreviated to SPF, it is sprayed as a liquid on rooftops. This expands to create a solid, protective layer.
Surprisingly, the technology to do this has been around since the sixties. It can be applied in any climate and a roof of this type can last over 50 years.
All of this can be done over existing roof surfaces. With no stripping of the previous roof, waste is reduced. the materials used are also environmentally friendly.
The properties of this roof are also excellent. It can expand and contract with the building. SPF is also seamless, meaning there are no areas for weakness that you may find in other types of roofs.
Types of Commercial Roofs
Now you know the types of commercial roofs, begin to decide which is for you. Set a budget and know your long-term goals. Then get the advice of professional service and a quote.
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