Are you considering new roofing for your commercial building? Although smaller premises might have sloped roofs, most commercial roofing consists of flat roofs, or rather, low-slope roofs. Completely flat roofs can result in water dams and leaks. So, low-slope roofing is the preferred option. This type of roof has a pitch of 4:12. That means it rises by 4 inches for every 12 inches of length.
These are your top choices when it comes to these kinds of commercial roofing systems.
Commercial Metal Roofing
Metal roofing is suitable for both residential and commercial roofing and boasts excellent fire-, tear-, and puncture-resistance.
These are the most popular types of metal roofing:
- Copper
- Corrugated galvanized steel
- Stainless steel
- Stone-coated steel
- Tin
- Aluminum
On the downside, metal rusts unless it’s treated with a protective coating, and it’s very noisy during a rainstorm.
Built-Up Commercial Roofing
Bitumen’s one of the most popular commercial roofing materials thanks to its fantastic fire-resistance and durability. BUR consists of alternating layers of bitumen and fiberglass asphalt sheeting, topped with a layer of crushed rock or gravel.
These roofs are also known as tar and gravel roofs.
Single-Ply Commercial Roof Types
These roofs are hardy as well as comparatively quick and easy to install. Single-ply roofing systems consist of strips of roofing material installed on top of a concrete roof deck.
You can choose from three different types of single-ply roof systems:
- Polyvinyl Chloride (PVC) – tough and durable
- Thermoplastic Polyolefin (TPO) – 100% recyclable and eco friendly
- Ethylene Propylene Diene Monomer (EPDM) – great for cooler climates
Most of these roof types, apart from EPDM, come with insulation pre-installed.
Liquid Applied Flat Roofs
Contractors pour this type of roofing on-site and it comprises a mix of polyester and resin that flows easily into every area of your roof.
Thanks to this, liquid-applied roofs provide an excellent, seamless seal against moisture. They’re also easy to repair by pouring another layer over any damaged parts of the roof. Roofing contractors apply liquid roofing in two coats using a roller or a sprayer.
Green Roofs
Green roofs consist of a waterproof membrane covered with plants. They’re highly praised by environmentalists due to their ability to improve air quality and prevent Urban Heat Sinks.
As a business owner, you can get a tax rebate if you install a green roof, and you can also use it to create an area for employees to rest up in pleasant surroundings.
Green roofs require a lot of maintenance and ongoing monitoring and often have sophisticated systems for managing water and drainage. On the plus side, they can last for up to 50 years.
Choosing the Best Commercial Roofing For Your Needs
Since most commercial roofs last for twenty years or more, chances are things have changed considerably since the last time your building had a new roof. So, it’s best to enlist the help of knowledgeable, licensed commercial roofing contractors while considering your options for flat roofs.
Get in touch and we’ll help you choose a commercial roofing solution that meets your needs without blowing your budget.
