What Are the Best Materials for Commercial Roofs?

Commercial roofs come in an assortment of various materials, each with its own distinct advantages.

In order to make the right decision about which roof material is best for your needs, it is vital to know the different types of commercial roofing materials that are available. 

With the vast number of roofing materials, it could be frustrating to decide which one is best for your Colorado business. To help direct you in making a choice, here are some commercial roofing materials and their advantages.

What is Commercial Roofing?

Commercial roofing refers to a roofing system developed and constructed exclusively for business structures including:

• Warehouses

• Industrial facilities

• Offices

• Retail stores

Unlike residential roofs which are small in size, commercial roofs are made to cover bigger areas and sustain the unique issues of commercial construction.

The need for sturdiness is one of the main issues that commercial roofing must resolve. Adverse weather conditions, heavy foot traffic, and other variables that may cause wear and tear over time are typical in commercial buildings. 

As a result, commercial roofing systems must battle severe circumstances while delivering continuing structure protection. Commercial roofs are usually low-sloped and flat, requiring specified materials and construction techniques to withstand substantial foot traffic and possible exposure to industrial elements. Commercial roofing jobs are usually more complex due to their distinct requirements and size.

Common Commercial Roofing Materials 

Here are some of the most common commercial roofing materials in the market: 

Built-Up Roofing Membrane (BUR)

BUR (built-up roofing membrane) is poured several times to get a thickness. After the membrane has dried, little stones are put over it to help shield it from high winds, debris, and hail that can hit the roof.

A built-up roofing system is made from alternating layers of gravel and tar. This provides you with plenty of control over your roof since the number of layers you select to install has a direct effect on both the cost and sturdiness of your roof. It’s a material with an extensive history of long-lasting and durable success. Commercial buildings have been installing BUR roofs for years.

BUR roofs are well-known for being cost-effective and any needed repairs will probably be low-cost. This roof type is walkable, and it reflects both ultraviolet and heat rays. It’s excellent for Denver, CO weather since the area experiences cold and warm temperatures. BUR roofs provide excellent defense against water damage and UV. They can withstand high foot traffic and have a long lifecycle.

Thermoset EPDM Roofing

EPDM (Ethylene Propylene Diene Terpolymer) is also referred to as a rubber roof or thermoset roofing. 

EPDM roofing material comes in huge rubber rolls, which your Denver roofing contractor will unroll and put out in rows on top of your roof. A popular commercial roofing material, it has a reputation for being an extremely resilient roofing material that is cost effective. The average lifetime is approximately 20 years.

Modified Bitumen Roofing

A long-lasting and reliable option for business roofs is modified bitumen. For years, modifiers have been put on asphalt to heighten its flexibility and performance. This roofing material may be installed by self-adhesion or torching cold application. Roofs of modified bitumen are more resilient to high temperatures, hail, and fire.

If you desire roofing membranes and asphalt shingles on your flat roof, the best commercial roofing material for you might be modified bitumen. While other commercial roofing materials need warm weather during installation, modified bitumen can be installed any time of the year.

Because of the way the seams and layers are sealed, modified bitumen roofs are impermeable to basically any type of storm damage. They provide versatility and are exceptional for low-slope roofs.

Thermoplastic Roofing

The commercial roofing market is experiencing greater demand for thermoplastic roofing, frequently made of thermoplastic olefin (TPO) or polyvinyl chloride (PVC). Heat welding generates a long-lasting, unblemished surface from single-ply membranes. Thermoplastic roofs are energy efficient and have excellent resistance to holes, UV rays, and chemicals. They are available in an assortment of patterns and colors. 

PVC Roofing

PVC is a single-ply membrane commercial roofing choice made with polyvinyl chloride. It is a plastic-based material, and it has a lower petroleum content than EPDM and TPO. The lifespan of a PVC roof is around 25-30 years.

PVC is a durable material that can resist high temperatures and provides both fire and wind resistance. Since it’s white, it’s one of the top roof choices for flat roofs. Moreover, it’s recyclable, so sheets at the end of their lifecycle can be re-created into new PVC roofing sheets.

Metal Roofing

Metal roofing has become a top commercial roof material. Metal roofs are long-term, low maintenance, and quite strong. Some metal roofs last over 45 years.

Metal roofs are an excellent choice for commercial buildings since they need little upkeep and last for a long time. While the metal roofing material can be more costly than others upfront, they’ll last years, paying for themselves over time. 

Asphalt Shingles

Asphalt shingles are fundamental in both residential and commercial roofing systems because the shingles are manufactured in strips for simple installation and steep-slope applications.

 Basically, asphalt shingles have a fiberglass mat that is covered with water-resistant asphalt. Its upper layer is permeated with stone granules to shield from UV rays and bring aesthetic appeal. 

Three main types of asphalt shingles are:

• Three-tab shingles

• Designer shingles

• Architectural shingles

These cost-effective commercial roofs are available in an assortment of colors and styles, offering flexibility in design. Premium shingles deliver enhanced wind resistance and durability, lasting 15 to 30 years with accurate care. Asphalt shingles are one of the most affordable roofing materials in the market.

Green Roofing (Living Roofs)

Green roofing (living roofs) is an environmentally friendly and distinct option for commercial buildings. This commercial roofing system includes:

• Green spaces

• Planting vegetation on top of a waterproof membrane

• Constructing a rooftop garden

Green roofs not only offer visual appeal but also provide many eco-friendly benefits.

They help decrease the urban heat island impact by offering insulation and absorbing sunlight. Furthermore, green roofs improve the air quality by taking in carbon dioxide and filtering impurities. The vegetation on a green roof works as natural insulation, aiding in controlling indoor temperatures and diminishing the need for cooling and healing.

Green roofs can manage and absorb rainwater, lessening the amount of runoff that causes water pollution and flooding. Finally, they can boost the whole appearance of a commercial building, offering treasured green space in urban settings.

The Right Roof Choice for Your Commercial Building

Making the right roof choice for your commercial building is vital since it might impact the structure’s total value, durability, and use. When choosing the right roofing for your commercial property, keep these elements in mind to ensure you make the best informed decision:

Building Structure and Design 

Take into consideration the building’s slope, architectural design, and size. Particular constructions are more appropriate for certain roofing systems. For example, low-slope and flat roofs might require different installation methods and materials than pitched roofs.

Resilience and Longevity

Assess the local climate, taking into account:

• Precipitation amounts

• Temperature swings

• Wind directions

Choose a roofing material with a solid record of weather resistance and resilience in your area. Examine the roofing system’s expected lifespan and continuing maintenance needs.

Energy Efficiency

For commercial buildings, energy efficiency is a crucial factor to consider. To decrease cooling and heating costs, choose commercial roofing materials with robust insulation properties. Metal roofing and thermoplastic roofing with reflecting coatings are two roofing options that can provide significant energy efficiency benefits.

Local Building Codes and Regulations

Confirm that your chosen roofing material adapts to your area’s building codes and regulations. There may be certain guidelines for fire resistance, energy efficiency, or wind uplift ratings in some areas.

Working with a business that offers roofing consulting services for Denver commercial properties is crucial since they know local building codes and regulations and can guarantee compliance.

Considering Repairs and Maintenance 

Analyze the maintenance demands and possible repair needs of the roofing materials you want for your commercial roof. Some might need more routine repairs, cleanings, or inspections than other roofing systems. Think about whether your preferred commercial roofing material has access to skilled repair and maintenance personnel.

Impact on the Environment

Take into consideration how the roofing materials will impact the environment. Select products: 

• That is recyclable

• That has a little environmental effect

• That is made from recycled or sustainable materials. 

Solar panels and other eco-friendly roofing options, including vegetative roofs, could have different positive green impacts.

Conclusion

Selecting the best roofing material for your commercial building is contingent on many factors such as:

• Climate

• Preferences for aesthetic appeal

• Eco-efficiency goals

• Budget

Green, EPDM, modified bitumen, TPO, metal, and green roofing all deliver distinct advantages that make them right for different commercial applications. 

Before picking a roofing material, consult with us to determine the best choice for your specific needs. Investing in high-quality commercial roofing material can considerably enhance the performance, energy efficiency, and longevity of your commercial building.