Commercial roofs protect business structures from the elements. They are generally lower sloped than residential roofs and come in various materials. Whether repairing or replacing, every standout commercial roofing project starts with solid planning. This process ensures quality and safety and sets the groundwork for the project.

Built-Up Roofing (BUR)

Built-up roofing, known as tar and gravel roofs, is one of the most rugged types of commercial roofing. They are highly durable and require minimal maintenance over the years. This can help reduce disruption to your business operations or tenants and result in cost savings.

This roofing type comprises alternating layers of bitumen (typically asphalt or coal tar) and felt sheets that are either fiberglass-reinforced or organic-mat-reinforced. These layers are then topped with a mineral surface cap sheet and aggregate.

BUR systems are redundant, so if a ply or layer is damaged, other plies and the top layer provide immediate protection. These roofs are highly durable, withstand high stress, and are great for low-sloped building applications such as parking garages. BUR multi-ply roofs are also energy efficient.

Their multiple layers of insulation and reflective surfacing materials help reduce heat transfer into and out of buildings, making occupants more comfortable while saving on utility costs. In addition, the monolithic structure of BUR systems reduces penetration points and stresses, increasing uplift and fire resistance.

Metal Roofing

Metal roofing is a solid and energy-efficient option in various materials, colors, and coatings. It is also fire-resistant and can last for at least 30 years with minimal maintenance. The kind of metal you choose will depend on your budget and the environmental demands of your area.

Copper, for instance, is more expensive but has a unique look and a long lifespan. It also develops a speckled green patina that some homeowners find appealing over time. Galvanized and galvalume steel are less expensive alternatives in various color options. The slope and pitch of your roof will also affect costs.

A steeper roof will require more material, longer installation times, and specialized labor. You should also consider your roof’s location, which will influence how much ongoing maintenance it requires. For instance, a roof in a snowy region might be more prone to ice damming, which can cause water leaks and corrosion.

Similarly, a rooftop in a hurricane-prone area will have different roofing needs than one in a moderate climate. Consider all of these factors before deciding on your commercial roofing solution.

Thermoset EPDM Roof

EPDM (ethylene propylene diene monomer) is a durable synthetic rubber membrane commonly called a “rubber roof” with a long lifespan and low installation costs. The membrane withstands fluctuations in temperature and UV radiation. It is also resistant to ozone and abrasion.

EPDM is a popular choice for low-slope commercial roofing. It can be mechanically fastened, adhered to a substrate, or ballasted. The membrane is black, but white sheets are available from some manufacturers. It is manufactured in sheet widths from 7.5 feet to 50 feet and various thicknesses.

The membrane can be field-welded or pre-fabricated in a factory-welded application. A single-ply membrane, such as EPDM, should be installed by a trained roofing professional. A properly installed and maintained EPDM roof is watertight. EPDM is an energy-efficient option, reflecting sunlight to cut cooling costs and insulating the building to reduce heating costs.

EPDM can be used in any climate. The membrane can swell when exposed to oils, greases, or solvents. This can be corrected by placing grease traps at exhaust vents and substituting oil-resistant elastomers in affected areas.

Thermoplastic PVC & TPO Roof

TPO and PVC membranes are thermoplastic single-ply roofing systems that can be mechanically attached, adhered to, or laid loose with a ballasted cover. These membranes are also 100% recyclable, which is essential to many building owners looking to reduce the environmental impact of their roof system. Both TPO and PVC are known for their energy efficiency.

TPO’s white color helps to reflect sunlight and heat, saving money on cooling costs in the long run. In addition, TPO is highly durable and resistant to tears and punctures. PVC, on the other hand, is an excellent choice for commercial buildings that need to resist chemical exposure.

This includes fast food restaurants, malls with food courts, and other buildings with hood vents that may disperse grease from animal fats. While both PVC and TPO have overlapping features such as durability and fire resistance, working with a roofing contractor with experience working with both products is vital.

Green Roofing Systems

Adding a green roof to a building isn’t just eco-friendly; it’s also practical and can save money. The vegetation on a green roof soaks up the sun’s heat, keeping it from overheating the building and lowering air conditioning costs. Green roofs can also help mitigate the urban heat island effect, promote biodiversity, create habitats, and improve water management.

For example, they can reduce the amount of rainwater that goes into sewer systems and prevent pollutants from reaching other water channels. However, green roofs can add much weight to a building structure. Intensive green roofs, essentially elevated parks, can weigh up to 150 pounds per square foot, including soil, irrigation, and root protection barriers.

It is essential to consult with a professional when deciding whether a green roof is right for you. In addition, choosing a roofing system that can handle the weight of the plants and layers is essential. This will help ensure a long-lasting and healthy green roof. Fortunately, advances in lightweight materials and modular green roofing systems make these options more accessible.