Commercial roofs are broader and flatter than residential roofing systems. Flat commercial roofs have more elaborate slopes, penetrations, and curves, complicating installation and maintenance. The uniquely complex designs require specialized materials. Many commercial roofs use thermoplastic polyolefin, metal, modified bitumen, Polyvinyl Chloride, and Ethylene Propylene Diene Monomer. Roofing contractors prefer metal panels and single-ply membranes for their commercial roofing structures.
Contractors and property owners choose their roofing materials according to the buildings’ functionality. Structures with heavy machinery require roofs that can withstand heat discharge. Whichever your roofing size and type, the following tips will help you choose the best materials for the project.
1. Roof Configuration
The slope and design influence water runoff efficiency. Steeper roofing slopes work best with shingles. Consider waterproof membranes for your flat roofing structures. Furthermore, the roof angle determines the perfect material to shed water and withstand weather conditions. Low, flat-slope roofing systems require materials to prevent pooling. Buildings with steep roofs deserve materials to optimize water runoff.
Skilled commercial roofing Omaha contractors recommend the best materials based on the roof configuration. Low-slope roofs work best with single-ply and modified bitumen materials. Asphalt shingles are ideal for steeper slopes. Roof contractors also consider the ease at which the roof systems accumulate debris. Flat roofs accumulate debris faster, requiring more maintenance.
Contractors seek roofing systems matching a building’s structural integrity. Weaker structures cannot withstand the heavy weight of heavyweight roofing materials. Ensure the roofing material can meet your property performance and durability requirements.
2. Building Style
Many commercial building styles influence the roofing material. The correct roofing material boosts building aesthetics and appeal. Flat-roof buildings are suitable for large retail stores and warehouses with minimal slopes. These buildings work best with different roofing materials. Single-ply membranes create a waterproof barrier on flat surfaces.
Built-up roofing (BUR) can withstand water damage for years. Contractors prefer modified bitumen for large buildings. They recommend low-slope buildings for retail and office buildings. Regardless of your preferred style, you need roofing materials that balance waterproofing with drainage.
Steep-slope roofs are excellent for historic buildings, restaurants, and retail stores. They require a substantial slope to optimize aesthetics. Metal roofing and asphalt shingles are the best options for these buildings. Contemporary buildings require roof designs to maximize energy efficiency and aesthetics. Single-play, metal, and green roofing materials are the best options for these building types.
3. Environmental and Climate Factors
Commercial buildings erected in different locations require suitable roofing materials for optimized durability and efficiency. High temperatures trigger expansion and contraction, leading to deterioration and cracking. Metal and cool roofing coatings have high heat reflectance capacity. These roofs can reduce heat absorption and maintenance costs.
Locations with freeze-thaw cycles cause cracking and brittle. These areas require roofing materials with excellent water and thermal shock absorption capacities. Modified bitumen is one of the favorite materials for such areas.
Locations that frequently rain require building materials with excellent drainage and waterproofing capabilities. Single-ply membranes, tile, and metal materials can withstand heavy rainfalls and maintain their integrity for years. Buildings in areas receiving lengthy ice and snow deserve materials that can withstand the heavy snow weight and resist ice dam formation. Metal is an excellent roofing material for preventing ice-water damage and snow shedding.
4. Maintenance Requirements
Commercial roofs can quickly wear down and succumb to damage. Every roofing system differs in structural integrity and longevity. Commercial building owners should look for materials requiring less maintenance. The best materials can withstand years of service. Heavy-duty materials can withstand harsh weather conditions to minimize damage. Consider moisture/UV radiation-resistant roofs to delay deterioration. Material integrity and longevity determine the frequency of repairs and replacements.
Metal roofing systems are highly resistant to UV rays, weather, and fire. They can withstand years of UV and rain exposure. Additionally, they usually require minimal maintenance work. Single-ply membranes like PVC, TPO, and EPDM resist UV and weather radiation. These roofing materials require low maintenance to stay in perfect shape. EPDM is highly prevalent because it can withstand extreme weather changes and requires less maintenance.
5. Aesthetics and Curb Appeal
Hotels, restaurants, and retail stores prioritize customer-facing interactions that require exceptional curb appeal. Real estate agencies and law firms need a polished aesthetic to attract and maintain customers. Achieving unmatched building curb appeal and aesthetics deserves the best commercial roofing materials.
Metal roofing offers a sleek, modern, and highly customizable appeal. Consider steel, copper, and aluminum roofs to complement your commercial building. The metal roof profile, color, and finish should match the building’s aesthetics. Standing seam metal roofing structures create clean and elegant lines. These beauty elements can enhance the architectural features.
Green roofs add natural and green appeal to your building. These roofing materials offer excellent visual appeal, delivering natural aesthetics. They benefit your commercial space with reduced stormwater issues and enhanced air quality.
Asphalt shines are suitable for commercial buildings where people prefer a traditional appeal. These shingles mimic tile or slate, significantly enhancing your building’s curb appeal.
6. The Roofing Material Cost
The financial input of your roofing project depends on the material. More advanced roofing systems require specialized installation and cost more. EPDM and TPO are cheaper to secure but may require specialized installation. Metal and green roofing materials are more expensive upfront but cost less to install and maintain. Commercial building owners must consider the upfront material and the installation labor cost.
Roofing systems with complex installation work will cost more. You should also consider the maintenance costs of the roofing material, ensuring you get options with minimal work. Understanding the roofing project costs helps you create financial forecasts and budgets to avoid unexpected expenses.
Wrapping Up
Are you seeking the best roofing solution for your commercial project? The best roofing material can deliver exceptional durability and aesthetic appeal. Quality and durable roofs minimize property ownership costs and keep the maintenance load lower. Building owners should consider roofing aesthetics, configuration, climate, and style. You want a roofing solution suitable for the weather and conditions in your town or city.
