Until you own a commercial building, you might not give much thought to roofing options. Aren’t they the same as those for residential roofs?
No, they are not. While certain types of roofing might be used on both commercial and residential roofs (like asphalt shingles), commercial buildings often have specific needs that include different types of roofing than residential buildings do.
Types of commercial roofing include:
Metal Roofs are durable and typically made of steel, aluminum, tin, zinc, or copper. They’re often the choice to create a modern aesthetic but offer many practical benefits – such as longevity and being able to withstand extreme weather, like heavy snow and high wind. Metal roofs also reflect heat, which means the building is easier and less expensive to cool. Metal roofs are also a more eco-friendly option since they are usually made of up to 95% recycled material and can usually be installed over an existing roof, which minimizes waste. Routine maintenance for metal roofs includes checking for signs of corrosion, loose fasteners, and checking seals.
Flat roofs are a common style for commercial roofs but are usually constructed of various roofing materials such as built-up roofing (BUR), single-ply membrane, and modified bitumen. Flat roofs make it easy to install HVAC units, solar panels, etc. on the top of the building.
Single-ply membrane roofs tend to be popular because they’re cost effective to install, fairly low maintenance, and are UV resistant. Single-ply membrane roofs tend to be made of Thermoplastic Olefin (TPO), polyvinyl chloride (PVC), or ethylene propylene diene monomer (EPDM). Routine maintenance involves examining the seams, checking for proper adhesion, and – of course – repairing any punctures.
TPO roofs, also known as Thermoplastic Olefin roofing, have become increasingly popular due to their blend of durability, cost effectiveness, and energy efficiency. This type of single-ply membrane roofing is made from a blend of ethylene-propylene rubber and polypropylene, which makes it incredibly resistant to UV rays, ozone, and chemical exposure. Routine maintenance for TPO roofing involves cleaning and general inspection.
EPDM roofing also known as ethylene propylene diene monomer, is a type of single-ply membrane roofing that is used on both commercial and residential roofs. It can be used for any angle of roof but is commonly used for flat and low-slope roofs. It is known for its durability, weather resistance, and ease of installation and repairs. Black EPDM is common and often valued for its resistance to UV rays and ability to dissipate the sun’s heat. But white EPDM is a newer option that has been designed for hotter climates because it reflects sunlight, keeping the building cooler. EPDM roofing is often made from recycled materials and can itself be recycled.
Built-up roofing (BUR) is made of layers of roofing felt and bitumen. It is often used for roofs that will have significant foot traffic or heavy equipment installations, like large HVAC units. BUR is both durable and has a weather-resistant membrane. Routine maintenance involves checking for cracks and blisters to prevent water penetration.
Modified bitumen roofs are a mix of BUR and single-ply membranes, combining the durability of BUR with single-ply membrane flexibility. Because they resist expansion and contraction, modified bitumen roofs are a good choice for areas that have significant temperature fluctuations throughout the year – like New Jersey.
Asphalt shingles are more commonly used in residential roofing but can also be found in commercial roofs. Installation is straightforward and asphalt shingles are cost effective but because they have a shorter lifespan than other commercial roofing methods, they aren’t a popular choice for commercial applications.
Green roofs are a specialized roofing choice that involves vegetation in a growing medium over a waterproof membrane. While still rare in the U.S., they’ve become increasingly popular in Singapore since 1992 as part of the country’s Green Plan 2030 to increase its green space for greater environmental sustainability and resiliency. Green roofs provide better insulation (which helps save money on energy costs), decrease the urban heat effect, improve air quality, and help to manage storm-water runoff. Green roofs also increase the life expectancy of the roofing membrane beneath by protecting the actual roofing material from UV rays and temperature fluctuations. Green roofs can contribute to LEED environmental certification for a building.
Simpson Has Been Installing Commercial Roofs for More Than a Century
Whatever your commercial roofing needs – installation, repair, or maintenance – you can trust Simpson Roofing Company. We’ve been a family-owned roofing and siding company serving the tri-state area for more than a century. Call us at (973) 794-3500 or contact us online for additional information or to request a free estimate.
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