Keeping the roof of commercial buildings in good condition is key to preventing damage and reducing energy consumption. However, choosing the right roofing materials to meet these needs varies from customer to customer. Read on Roofing Columbus GA to learn more.
Commercial and industrial properties require different types of roofs. Unlike residential properties typically outfitted with shingles, most commercial structures are equipped with flat or low-slope commercial roofs.
Commercial roofing comes in various types to accommodate businesses’ different environments. Sometimes, roofs are categorized by the type of structure that sits on them like flat roofs or low slope roofs and other times they are grouped according to the roofing materials used to build them. For example, built up roofing (BUR) is a popular type of roof that uses layered asphalt and fabrics to form a durable membrane. Other types of commercial roofing are single-ply membranes that use rubber or synthetic materials. Some of these include EPDM and Thermoplastic Polyolefin (TPO).
Shingles are commonly seen on residential properties with steep roof lines but they also have applications for commercial buildings, especially those located in wooded or wet areas. There are many shingle options to choose from, including asphalt, architectural, ceramic and slate and they can be affordable and easy to install. However, their lifespan is shorter than some other commercial roofing types and they are vulnerable to mildew and moss when they are shaded.
Metal roofs are another type of commercial roofing that is popular for its durability and longevity. They can be made out of steel, copper or aluminum and have high fire resistance ratings. They shed snow and rain very well and can last up to 50 years with the right maintenance. The only drawback of a metal roof is that it can be prone to corrosion. However, there are now metal roofing systems that have protective surface layers that manage this risk.
Another popular option for commercial roofs is rubber or PVC. These are single-ply membranes that are chemically adhered to the insulation on some commercial facilities. These are relatively inexpensive and durable. They have a wide range of color options to add style and are highly resistant to UV and heat.
Another benefit of these types of roofs is that they are very energy efficient. They can help reduce a building’s cooling costs by reflecting the sun’s rays. They are also lightweight and puncture-resistant. The only downside is that these roofs are more expensive than other commercial roofing options.
There are many different types of materials that can be used in commercial roofing. Some of these include single ply membranes, asphalt shingles, concrete tile, wood shakes and slate. The type of roof will dictate the type of material that is used. For example, a steep sloped commercial roof will require a specific type of roofing material that is designed for those type of slopes.
A single ply commercial roof membrane is generally made of rubber or plastic. These are manufactured in a factory and can be installed on the roof using one of several methods including fully adhered, mechanically attached or ballasted. Single ply commercial roofs are extremely durable and offer excellent resistance to weathering, punctures or tears, and bacterial growth. They also are highly reflective, helping to reduce energy costs in the building. These commercial roofs are also easy to repair and maintain.
EPDM is a popular type of single ply commercial roofing that is available in various colors and has a long lifespan. This durable roof membrane offers good flexibility and can handle structural fluctuations better than other flat roof options such as TPO or PVC. It is also fire rated and has excellent air and water resistance.
Another popular type of commercial roofing is a metal roof. These roofs are typically comprised of galvanized steel, aluminum or copper and are designed to be both waterproof and durable. They also have the added benefit of being able to be integrated with snow removal and solar systems.
Modified bitumen (MB) is a common type of low-slope or flat commercial roofing. It is constructed from a layer of reinforcing fabric that is covered with an asphalt mixture. This is then covered with a gravel layer to help provide extra protection for the roof. This is a tough roof type that can withstand a variety of temperatures and can last for up to 20 years.
A silicone roof coating can be rolled or sprayed on to provide a protective layer for a variety of commercial roof types. This includes tar and gravel roofs, single ply membranes, as well as EPDM. The key benefit of a silicone roof coating is that it is highly resistant to ponding water. This is a common issue that can occur on some flat or low-sloped commercial roofs and is often caused by improper drainage systems.
When replacing a commercial roof, the goal is to provide the business with a sturdy structure that protects contents and occupants from rain, snow and debris. In addition to the structural integrity of the building, many regions have stipulations regarding energy efficiency which must be taken into consideration when choosing a new roof.
The type of roofing chosen is important, as is the installer. A reputable roofing company will work with you to find the best solution for your building and its use. For example, a restaurant will have different needs than a jewelry store. A local roofing contractor will have experience in the various types of roofs and be familiar with any stipulations that may affect your specific region.
Some of the most common commercial roofing systems include single-ply membranes, concrete, modified bitumen and built-up roofing system (BUR). The single-ply membranes such as TPO and PVC offer durability, low maintenance and cost effectiveness. They are also highly reflective and can help reduce cooling costs. The built-up roofing system, with a tar and gravel coating, is an older low-slope roof that offers flexibility and can be adapted to specific building requirements.
Depending on the type of roofing, the installation process can take between four and 12 days. The amount of time will depend on the size and complexity of the project, as well as weather conditions. In addition, the permit process can often cause delays. A good roofing company will work diligently to avoid any unforeseen delays, but they cannot control everything.
A key aspect of a quality commercial roof is proper ventilation. If this is not addressed, a roof could leak or become damaged over time. This can lead to costly repairs or even the shutdown of a business. To prevent this, a roofing contractor should inspect the roof for adequate air flow and proper insulation.
Both residential and commercial roofs need regular maintenance. A professional roofer can help maintain the health of a roof by removing any debris from gutters and downspouts. They can also make sure that all eavestroughs are open and free of obstructions, which can cause water to back up into the roof and damage the interior.
The commercial roof is one of the most important investment that property owners make in their structures. It protects the occupants and contents from outside elements, and is crucial to the building’s energy efficiency. Unfortunately, the roof is often neglected. Many owners only think about it when a problem arises, such as leaks or interior damage.
The best way to ensure that the commercial roofing system will continue to perform properly is to create a preventative maintenance plan with a local professional roofing contractor. Keeping up with the plan will save money, minimize costly repairs, and extend the life of the system.
An effective preventative maintenance program should include visual inspections, gutter and drain cleaning, debris removal, small repairs, and a full roof survey. It should also include recording the results of each visit and providing photo documentation. This will help to identify the cause of the problem and provide the building owner with a clear picture of the condition of the roof.
A commercial roofing expert will be able to determine the appropriate level of repair, from minor repairs to replacement and/or re-roofing. The expert will be able to provide recommendations based on the age of the roof, the current condition, and use of the building.
Inspecting the entire roof for any signs of damage or general wear is critical to avoiding expensive repairs. A thorough inspection should include looking at the following:
Deterioration of sealant – This is usually the result of long term exposure to weathering. Common areas of concern are above pipe boots, metal flashing details, gulleys, and termination bars. Commercial roof maintenance will inspect these areas and re-seal as needed.
Drainage issues – This can be caused by the accumulation of water, debris, or improper slope and drainage. If left unchecked, these issues can lead to ponding water and degrade the roof membrane. Commercial roof maintenance will check for clogged gutters and drains, sagging drains, or damaged ponding areas.
A commercial roof should be inspected on an annual basis to avoid problems. A good roofing company will be able to provide a written report with photos, discuss any issues found and recommend the next steps. A regular maintenance schedule will also help to extend the life of the roof and keep it under warranty.
