Finding the right roofing system for your commercial property involves taking several factors into account. In today’s post, roofing company Roofer Chicks® shares insight on how to choose the right commercial roofing system.
Your Commercial Facility
The building’s purpose typically dictates the type of roofing. For example, a building with office spaces would require many HVAC systems, which means the rooftop will need to carry the weight of HVAC condenser units and would be closed to casual foot traffic. In comparison, a warehouse or hangar does not have such requirements, and would be better served with a sloped metal roof.
Some commercial roofs may need a hard-wearing to withstand foot traffic from other than roof repair contractors and maintenance staff. Rooftops that bridge other buildings, have open businesses or have residential suites fall into this category. The building may house sensitive electronic equipment, which would require robust waterproofing. Taking your building’s purpose and requirements into account can help you and your roofing contractor narrow down the appropriate roofing system for your commercial property.
Commercial Roofing System Categories
Commercial roofing systems can be made using a combination of brands, materials, and configurations. To keep your search simple, you only need to remember two categories:
Built-up roofing. Built-up roofing systems or BURs are built up from multiple layers of material. Traditional gravel-topped flat roofs belong in this category — they feature alternating layers of tar and reinforcing material under the gravel layer. A modified bitumen roof is a similar system but with a heat-welded top layer that’s similar in composition to asphalt shingles. BURs require longer installation times but are generally more resistant to punctures, foot traffic and radiant heat absorption.
Single-ply roofing. Single-ply roofing systems feature a top layer made of sheets of single-ply material that covers the substrate like a blanket. The sheets can be made of TPO, PVC, or EPDM that are welded using heat or adhesive, and can be installed on the substrate fully adhered, mechanically fastened at the seams, or weighed down by ballast. Most single-ply roofs have a light-colored outer surface that helps reduce radiant heat absorption.
Roofer Chicks® is your leading provider of commercial and residential roofing services. Give us a call at (830) 783-1328. You can also fill out our contact form to schedule an appointment. We serve customers in New Braunfels, TX, and the surrounding communities.