The Pros and Cons of Types of Commercial Roofing Systems
Commercial building owners want a robust roofing system to protect their property from different environmental elements. A roof is a significant investment. When looking to install a new commercial roofing system or re-roof their existing roofs, property owners feel confused and overwhelmed as they wade through the wide variety of material options available.
It gets tough to choose the best commercial roofing system as each has its strengths and weaknesses. The right material choice largely depends on the budget, personal preference, and specific building needs. It is essential to review all the options carefully before making the final decision.
We will consider the pros and cons of the most popular commercial roofing systems to help building owners choose the best option:
Metal roofs
Metal roofs are among the longest-lasting roofing systems. While galvanized steel is the widely-used metal roofing material, other popular options include zinc, tin, copper, and aluminum. Several manufacturers combine different metals and coat or cover them with different materials for extra protection from rust, sun exposure, and rain. The shape and design of a metal roof depend on the slope, penetrations, and architectural features.
Pros
Durable and long-lasting (50 years or more)
Easy installation and minimal maintenance requirement
High resistance to snow, mold and mildew, UV rays, fire, and rain
Low carbon footprint
Recyclable
Aesthetically pleasing and provide a high-end look
Available in varied styles, colors, and finishes
Highly energy-efficient
Cons
High installation cost
Not suitable for buildings requiring several penetrations
Susceptible to dents from foot traffic or hail
Lack of sufficient insulation can cause it to produce loud noises during rain or hail storms
Improper installation can cause leaks
Built-up roof (BUR)
Built-up roofs have been a popular commercial roofing choice in the country for over a century. It consists of alternating layers of materials like tar and asphalt piled over each other to achieve the desired thickness and a top coat of gravel or stone.
Pros
Long lifespan
Great functionality
Ease of maintenance and cost-effective repairs
Low installation cost
Resistance to heat and UV damage makes them more energy efficient
Strong enough to withstand high foot traffic
Excellent waterproofing properties makes them less prone to leaks
Cons
Not suitable for too cold climates
Hard to detect leaks due to multiple layers
Heavy
Lengthy installation process
Emit hazardous fumes and vapors during installation
Aesthetically not very pleasing
Single-ply roofs
Single-ply roofs are available in an array of price, thickness, design, and style options. EPDM commercial roofs made from rubber and TPO or PVC roofs made using plastic compounds are the popular single-ply commercial roofing systems.
Pros
Inexpensive
Flexible and lightweight
Low utility costs due to better reflective properties
Non-toxic
Resistant to hail, wind, thermal shock, peeling, and cracking
Sustainable
Cons
Prone to leaks
Vulnerable to punctures and damage from debris and foot traffic
EPDM and PVC roofs are incompatible with asphalt
Black EPDM roofs can raise the energy bills
TPO roofs shrink over time
Choose the best roofing system
Knowledge of different commercial roofing materials helps you make an informed decision and saves money in the long run. Contact a roofing company for assistance in choosing the right commercial roofing system and ensure its proper installation.
Irish Roofing Company Scottsdale with roof inspection, installation, sealing and repair. We offer shingle services, tile roof services, flat roof services, roof cleaning,roof inspection, roof installation, leak repair, roof recovering, roof repair, roof sealing, and wood shake services for commercial and residential customers.
