There are six common commercial roofing types, all with the same purpose of protecting the people and contents of the building from external elements, such as debris, sun, and water. The six types vary in materials and processes, which determine quality and durability. As in buying a car, some roofs cost less than others, and some provide more longevity than others. In analogy, the purpose of buying a car is to transport a person or persons from point A to point B. Just as with any of the types of commercial roofing, any car that runs and has passenger seating can do the job; but some vehicles cost more, look better, and last longer.
Built-Up Roofing (Bur) Membrane
Flat or low-slope roofs are the norm in commercial construction because of their safety, efficiency, and lower expense. The standard tar-and-gravel roof is the typical built-up roofing (BUR). It contains multiple layers or piles. Tough and relatively inexpensive, this BUR is a membrane with as many layers as the roofer wishes to lay, depending on budget and desired durability.
Modified Bitumen Commercial Roofing
Similar to BUR membranes, the bitumen is cut and installed layers to adhere to reinforced roof fabrics, known as the “carriers.” They are usually two-ply systems that provide good stability and protection. Maintenance is simplified with annual inspections and cleaning. The Modified bitumen roof has better tensile strength than most other flat roof types and is especially recommended if you expect foot traffic on your commercial roofing because of heating and air conditioning units.
Metal Commercial Roofing
Metal is very popular in commercial roofing because of the wide variety of metal types and colors. There is corrugated galvanized steel, aggregates of zinc, aluminum, silicon-coated steel, metal tile sheets, aluminum, copper, stainless steel, stone-coated steel, lead, and tin. Because rusting can occur, metal roofing materials have protective coatings to withstand prolonged exposure to sunlight and water. They feature an attractive appearance and have five resistance ratings. Metal roofs are strong and durable.
Green Roofing
Green roofs have gained popularity in recent decades. They make the environmentalists happy, and they provide versatility and sustainability for commercial properties. By planting trees and other vegetation atop the building, the roof can double as a “park” for people to enjoy and relax in. Precipitation is used for plant growth rather than runoff. Green roofs protect the building from the elements, maintaining the health and safety of the building.
Thermoset Roof Membrane
Thermoset roofs are quite simple to install and easy to maintain. Also known as EPDM roofing, it is stout against ultraviolet rays and ozone, though it is built by a single-ply rubber. EPDM is flexible in cold temperatures and is resistant to acids and solvents. It also has some ability to reflect sunlight, thus lowering the costs of air conditioning.
Thermoplastic Roof Membrane
Thermoplastic Polyolefin (TPO) and PVC materials are nice options for commercial roofing because they are reflective, lightweight, and resistant to ultraviolet light, cracking, chemicals, fats, and bacteria. Businesses that emit oils or fats from their ventilation, such as restaurants, like the TPO and PVC roofing systems because they don’t breakdown from the oils. They also have high resistance to fire and wind.
Article By: Clear Content Marketing