What are the different types of commercial roofs?
When it comes to protecting your commercial building, there are several different types of commercial roofing systems available to choose from. The type of commercial roofing you select for your building can be determined by different factors, ranging from architecture type and style to available budget. However, it should be mentioned that the type of roofing chosen for any commercial building will have a significant impact on how the building withstands the elements and pests as well as the overall health and durability of the building itself.
Below we will review some of the different commercial roofing options available.
1. Tar Roofing
Commonly known as “BUR” or built-up roofing, tar-and-gravel is considered to be one of the most popular commercial roofing options. It is usually built with multiple layers of waterproof material alternated with hot tar and a surface layer of mineral aggregate. The roofing allows flexibility to cut down on cost by varying the number of layers to suit the budget. Built-up roofing is a low-slope roofing system.
2. Torch Down Roofing
Also known as torch-on roofing, requires a flame (from a propane torch) for the layers of asphalt membrane (called bitumen) to be fastened and adhered to the roofing deck to ensure protection and stability. Modified Bitumen Roofing is easy to maintain but must be inspected yearly to assess its condition. This type of roofing is extremely durable and is best suited for commercial buildings where there are expected to be lots of activities on the roof.
3. Thermoset Roof Membrane
This is commercial roofing is also known as EPDM roofing. This roofing is versatile, long-lasting, and almost maintenance-free. It is the type of commercial roofing that offers high resistance to ultraviolet light and ozone. It is made primarily from a rubber material.
4. Metal Roofing
Metal roofing is among the most popular commercial roofing for building with sloped roofs. Metal roofing comes in different forms such as metal tile sheets, corrugated galvanized steel, stainless steel, aluminum, copper, tin, and aggregates of aluminum, zinc, and silicon-coated steel.
Metal roofing is usually coated for protection against corrosion and to ensure durability in the face of long exposure to harsh elements.
5. Thermoplastic Roof Membrane
Thermoplastic roof membrane includes the thermoplastic polyolefin (TPO) and polyvinyl chloride (PVC), the commercial roofing best suited for commercial buildings occupied by oil emitting businesses like restaurants. The roofing material is lightweight, resistant to UV light, chemicals, and oil. This commercial roofing can withstand high temperatures, fire, and wind.
