Commercial Roofing Systems

Throughout history many people have been concerned about roofing styles, whether it be residential or commercial. For that reason we see many styles of roofs from area to area. Varied styles, designs and shapes of roofs were created to fit on the structure they will cover and provide for the needs of the consumers. To roof builders and building owners some of the important things to consider in choosing a roof structure are weather protection, design and compatibility with the existing structure and placement of internal housing or building elements like piping, wiring, insulation, ventilation and even the building flooring. Some of these commercial roofing styles are as follows:

Commercial Flat Roofs

The simplest among the roofing styles. They are commonly used in commercial buildings, though some residential building designers have adapted them to provide a modern touch. Rubber roofing systems are often used with flat roofs.

Commercial Gable Roofs

They are one of the simplest styles in roofing. It is also one of the most common roofing styles. It is an inverted or upside down V. They are, however, not ideal for windy areas since they are wind catchers like sails.

Commercial Hip Roofs

They are commonly considered and seen on, but are not limited to, residential buildings. Hip roof styles have four sloping sides with no vertical roof lines or walls. They can be rectangular or square. In terms of construction they are, however, more difficult to construct since they have more complicated truss and rafter structure when compared to flat roofs and gable roofs.

Commercial Shed Roofs

From a structural point of view they are inherently simple. They are often used as extensions on homes, buildings, or other roof styles. This is a flat roof but has more pitch since roof loads are transferred to the exterior walls.

Commercial A-Frame Roofs

A-frame roofs. This type of roof was named accordingly because they have prominent A-frame structures. They are popularly used in churches, cottages, homes and other structures. The roof functions both as a roof and walls.

It is undeniable that many industrial and commercial buildings at present have flat roofs. These roofs are horizontal or they have very little slope compared to roofs of residential buildings. They are preferred for commercial buildings since they provide a more appealing and modern look and structure. There are also a lot of flat roof options to choose from. Consider the following:

Commercial Built-Up Roof (BUR)

This type is particularly inexpensive and a very common option. This is perfect for companies who need to consider saving money and minimize expenses. These roofs are also very attractive and have a modern appeal. Adding to its aesthetic appeal, the top coat is usually gravel which looks very pleasant. Another great characteristic of this roof is insulation. Since it is made up of many layers it is good at dispersing heat. A significant problem to note, however, are the layers since they often necessitate joists as reinforcements in the existing roof. This also increases cost and construction time. Also construction should be done all together for a particular duration while no occupants are in the building. Construction time should be strictly followed so there is no delay in the company’s operation.

Commercial Modified Bitumen

This is a single-ply roofing system that is usually rolled on to the surface of the roof. Traditionally the material is laid on the roof and then heated with a blowtorch. Since the traditional method is quite dangerous, newer installation systems have been designed to allow the material to be peeled and eventually stuck to the roof surface. Aside from it’s easier method of installation, it is also more environmentally friendly because it reflects the rays of the sun. It should be noted though that it is less sturdy or tear-resistant. It also cannot resist foot traffic once it has been applied.

Polyvinyl Chloride (PVC)

PVCs are one of the top flat roof options primarily due to its easy installation and lack of water permeability, which means it can resist water accumulation. Other great advantages for using PVCs is its high reflectivity and durability. Its problem, however, is longevity. It may not be able to hold up seamless roofing for more than 10-15 years. This is because it has seams that must be taped or glued together. In time, these seams may have difficulty holding or resisting water.

Commercial Ethylene Propylene Diene Monomer (EPDM)

EPDM is a (class M) rubber compound, not a plastic like PVC. However, EPDMs and PVCs are both single ply. EPDM roof systems have established their status significantly on durability. This is an undeniable fact. Its weakness though has got to do with its treatment. In terms of application, they can be fully adhered, mechanically fastened, or ballasted. At present they are placed on the roof using adhesives, which makes the seam vulnerable over a period of time. After several years it may require maintenance of the seams, or occupants getting used to dealing with leaks.

Commercial Spray-Applied Roof Coating

This is a silicone roof coating system. They are best appreciated for their seamless application since they are sprayed on. It has a strong ability to resist water ponding and it has plausible reflective properties since it helps reduce energy consumption inside the building by reflecting the light of the sun. Another great benefit of using this roofing system is sustainability because new roofs can be applied on top of most substrates. Compared to other roofing systems, however, they are more costly, which is due to its high quality and incomparable features. They are one of the most expensive roofing solutions depending on your roof layout or structure and the specific condition.