The roof of a commercial building is an essential component that plays a vital role in protecting a structure and its occupants from the elements. With frequent hurricanes here in Central Florida, a high-quality roof for your commercial property can mean the difference between your business thriving after a storm or not. That is why choosing the right roofing material for your commercial building is important, as the wrong choice could result in costly repairs or even structural damage. In this article, we will break down the ultimate guide to the best commercial roofing materials. Keep reading to learn everything you need to know about maintaining your roof and choosing the best roofing material for your commercial building.
The Importance of Keeping up With Roof Replacements
As a roof ages, it becomes more prone to damage from weathering and other external factors. A damaged or poorly maintained roof can allow water to leak into the building, leading to various problems such as water damage, mold growth, and structural damage. This can be costly to repair and can also pose a health risk to the occupants of the building.
Another potential issue with waiting to replace a roof is that insurance companies may be less likely to cover the costs of repairs or replacements if the roof is old or has not been properly maintained. Some insurance policies have age limits for roofs, beyond which the company will not cover damages.
In addition, if an insurance company determines that the damage to a roof was due to neglect or lack of maintenance, they may refuse to cover the costs of repairs or replacements.
Overall, waiting too long to replace a roof can also lead to increased costs. The longer you wait, the more damage the roof is likely to sustain and the more expensive it will be to repair or replace. By staying on top of routine roof replacements, you can maintain the safety and efficiency of your building without driving up the project’s overall cost.
Does My Business Need a Roof Replacement?
It is generally recommended to have a commercial roof inspected at least once or twice a year. However, more frequent inspections may be necessary depending on the age and condition of the roof. If your business is located in a storm-ridden area, you may want to get your roof inspected after any/all large storms.
Some signs that your commercial roof may need more frequent inspections include the following:
● Visible signs of damage, such as cracked or missing tiles or shingles, or visible sagging or bulging
● Leaks or water damage inside the building
● Unusual or excessive amounts of debris on the roof
● Changes in energy bills or the performance of heating and cooling systems
The average lifespan of a commercial roof depends on a number of factors, including the type of roofing material, the quality of the installation, and the level of maintenance and repair performed.
Some roofing materials, such as metal, can last for 50 years or more, while others, such as single-ply membranes, may only last 20-25 years. It is important to keep in mind that the actual lifespan of a commercial roof may vary significantly depending on a multitude of factors.
Finding The Best Roofing Material For Your Business
There are several types of commercial roofing materials to choose from, each with its own set of pros and cons. Some of the most common commercial roofing materials include:
TPO (thermoplastic polyolefin) roofing
TPO is a synthetic rubber roofing material that is known for its durability, flexibility, and resistance to UV radiation. It is one of the most common commercial roofing materials used today that offers similar benefits to PVC. The material is known for efficiently resisting mold, corrosion, mildew, algae and built up of debris. TPO also reflects sunlight, making it an energy-efficient option for reducing cooling costs.
TPO is one of the most affordable and reliable compared to other commercial roofing materials. Since TPO is a relatively new material, there are still concerns about its long-term strength and longevity. Some locations that experience harsh direct sunlight for long periods of time may have a higher risk of roofing leaks.
EPDM (ethylene propylene diene monomer) roofing
EPDM is a synthetic dark rubber roofing material that is also known for its durability and flexibility. Installation of EPDM material is usually quick and cost-effective. Since the material is so elastic, it is resistant to weather, UV radiation, and temperature extremes.
However, similar to TPO, EPDM has its own downfalls to keep in mind. The black rubber material is prone to absorbing UV rays and accumulating heat on the rooftop. While there are some white EPDM materials, it’s not as common in the market today. Some people find that EPDM has a less-than-ideal curb appeal, especially compared to TPO and PVC roofing materials.
Although the repairs are relatively affordable, EPDM must be installed by experts that understand how to effectively install the material and secure the seams. While there are a lot of upsides to EPDM, it’s important to weigh the pros and cons before making a final decision.
PVC (polyvinyl chloride) roofing
PVC is a synthetic plastic roofing material, ranking high in popularity for commercial businesses. This material is known for being resistant to the elements, including water, wind, moisture, chemical and fire. PVC is strong and durable, with more flexibility than rubber. If you want to lower your heating and cooling costs, PVC has a great record for temperature regulation.
Compared to other materials, PVC typically has a higher price point; however, it may not need as many repairs as other options. It’s important to ensure that your roofing contractor chooses a high-quality option, as a variety of manufacturers distribute PVC. While PVC may not be ideal for all building types, it’s a great option to consider for your business.
SPF (spray polyurethane foam) roofing
Spray polyurethane foam (SPF) is a type of roofing material that is applied as a liquid and expands to form a solid, seamless layer on the roof. It is made of two components that are mixed together and sprayed onto the roof using special equipment. The foam expands and hardens within seconds, forming a durable, waterproof, and insulating layer on the roof.
SPF roofing is known for its versatility, as it can be applied to a variety of roofing surfaces, including metal, concrete, and asphalt. It is also energy-efficient, as it helps to insulate the building and reduce energy costs.
SPF roofing is durable and long-lasting, lasting for many years with proper maintenance. However, it can be more expensive to install than some other roofing materials and may require specialized equipment and training to apply. The material is also difficult to remove, so there can be extra costs down the line if removal is needed.
Asphalt Rolled Roofing
Asphalt rolled roofing, also known as asphalt felt roofing or tar paper roofing, is a type of roofing material that is made of layers of asphalt-saturated paper or fiberglass that are adhered together with asphalt. It is a low-cost, low-maintenance roofing material that is commonly used on flat or low-sloped roofs.
On the upside, asphalt rolled roofing is relatively simple to install and budget-friendly. It is resistant to weathering, and UV radiation, making it a low-maintenance choice for businesses. Some drawbacks include the short lifespan and lack of durability.
Asphalt rolled roofing typically only last ten years before needing a full replacement. There are also limited design options as this material is only typically available in a few colors. Keep in mind that this material may need to be installed over another layer of material, such as plywood and decking, to provide additional support and protection.
Some additional types of commercial roofing include:
● Single-ply Membranes
● Shingle Roofing
● Built-up Roofing (BUR)
● Metal Roofing
● Modified Bitumen Roofing
● Torch Down Roofing
Get Help From Florida’s Roofing Experts at CDS Contractors Inc
CDS Contractors Inc. has been a certified roofing contractor in the state of Florida for 20+ years. We have experience in new roof construction, existing roof replacements, and commercial roofing systems. We can install roofing materials, including Shingles, Tile, Torch Down Roofing, Thermoset EPDM Roof Membrane, Thermoplastic PVC, and TPO Roof Membrane.
Reach out to us today for assistance on any of your Central Florida commercial roofing needs! Call us at 321-436-9426 to request a free estimate for your commercial or residential roof replacement.