Common Commercial Roofing Materials

Betty Lattimer
Posted by August 25, 2021 August 25, 2021

Different forms of roofing material provide a specific function to your commercial building’s sustainability and aesthetic needs. Roofing is a critical element in maintaining the overall health of your occupants and your establishment. In addition, With the proper roof hatch safety railing and roofing material, you can help ensure your occupant’s safety, especially when it comes to critical weather and faulty maintenance. It is essential to consult your contractor about this decision or research the most suitable type of roofing material for your commercial building. Don’t worry! Let’s shed a little light on your situation. Here are some common roofing materials you can choose from:

  1. Metal Roofing

Durable metal roofing is the most common commercial roof type because of its 40 to 60-year lifespan. Several different metal roofing systems are available, and some even come with integrated solar or snow removal systems. Metal roofing provides an attractive, finished look, strong fire resistance ratings, and is more substantial and sustainable than many other options. Unfortunately, metal roofing can lead to corrosion which could affect the durability of your roof; regular maintenance is necessary.

  1. EPDM (Ethylene Propylene Diene Monomer) 

EPDM roofing is known as one of the most inexpensive roofing in the market today. It is versatile and straightforward to install. This material is lightweight, which is an advantage because you won’t need to reinforce your roof deck. Furthermore, this material can last up to 20 years. EPDM roofs are also known to be relatively durable and do not scuff or scratch easily. Although EPDM roofing material is black and absorbs heat, UV rays cannot damage the roofing easily.

  1. Built-up Roofing Membrane

Built-up roofing spans 20 years or more with proper care because of its alternating layers of tar and gravel. The number of layers affects the durability and cost of this material. Its durability is also cost-friendly and relatively easy to repair, making it the most versatile and oldest roof material. Moreover, you can also have the option to coat this product so you will have a UV-protected roof. This seamless roofing type can hold up delightfully well to foot traffic, but it still depends on the stability of the understructure to carry the weight and vibrations of movement.

  1. TPO (Thermoplastic Polyolefin Roof)

Just like EPDM, TPO is lightweight that you can install in different methods. One standard option is by directly fastening it to the roof deck or fully adhered with adhesives. This product is very durable because it is corrosion resistant and doesn’t break down quickly. Furthermore, it is not prone to algae growth or mildew. One huge advantage of this product is that it has heat-welded seams instead of the regular use of adhesives. When utilizing this roofing material, the melted plastics in the membrane create a far more dependable bond between seams. With seams being primarily responsible for roof leaks, this product can revolutionize the roofing market. 

  1. Modified Bitumen Roofing

This roofing system applies to commercial rooftops as a two-ply system, adhered to the roofing deck for maximum stability and protection. The reinforced roof fabrics act as “carriers” for bitumen, later cut and installed in layers similar to BUR membranes. Maintenance of modified bitumen roofs is uncomplicated and usually includes annual check-ups. 

This product is proven to be very durable due to its enhanced tensile strength compared to the other flat roof types that experience regular foot traffic. So, if you expect a lot of activity on your commercial building roof, modified bitumen may be the ideal roofing material for you.

  1. SPF (Spray Polyurethane Foam)

 SPF roofing is a sustainable choice since it is very energy-efficient. This product has outstanding tensile strength and durability, with a shiny topcoat that helps building owners save money on energy expenses. This product is very durable when partnered with regular proper maintenance and roof coatings. It can last up to 40 years and more. It has expansion properties that enable the product to effectively seal off gaps, making the entire roof watertight and airtight. Not only that, but SPF also provides excellent insulation to save both heat and A/C from leaking out of your building which is a plus for being energy efficient. 

  1. Green Roofing

This roofing material is probably the most versatile kind of commercial roof available today. This material is a widespread purchase for entrepreneurs who are constructing their commercial establishment throughout the years. The maximum advantage of green roofing systems is their ability to protect commercial buildings from the elements while simultaneously managing water, drainage and improving energy efficiency. Not only that, its appearance gives it a beautiful look and helps in making you achieve an environmentally-friendly commercial property.

  1. Asphalt Rolled Roofing

 If your commercial establishment has a low-slope roof, then this is the ideal roofing for you. This roofing material is composed of the same materials that make up asphalt shingles. Asphalt rolled roofing is inexpensive and easy to install. However, this roofing material has a very short life expectancy compared to other roofs, typically lasting only about ten years before it needs replacement. 

The roof of your commercial building provides safety and comfort for you and your occupants, so make sure to choose the suitable roofing material that offers adequate function and is ideal for your commercial building. Furthermore, longevity, aesthetic appeal, efficiency, and environmentally friendly material are vital aspects, so make sure you make the right choice that fits your budget.