Home » 6 types of commercial roofing and what environments they are best suited for

6 types of commercial roofing and what environments they are best suited for

According to a study conducted by marketresearch.com, the roofing industry is expected to grow at a compound annual growth rate of 4.9 percent and will reach the valuation of $19.9 billion in 2021.

Similarly, another survey conducted by the Kingdom Roofing revealed that 78 percent of roofing professionals believe the growth of commercial roofing sales will continue to increase into 2021.

These numbers point towards the fact that the roofing industry is witnessing rapid growth due to the increase in consumer demand. It is because once you are sure that your office or workplace is safe and secure on the outside, you can easily focus on your work.

A reliable roof plays a critical role in maintaining a productive and stress-free work environment. Knowing the purpose and performance difference between a flat roof and sloped one, such as how each can handle drainage and insulation, can guide better decisions during construction or renovation. Learning these distinctions can allow you to invest in a roofing solution that may align with your commercial needs and long-term maintenance goals.

Besides this, knowing that the roof of your building is installed correctly, well-maintained, and repaired regularly helps you ensure the safety of your employees and customers. To maintain your roof, it’s important to get in touch with commercial roof maintenance in Greenville, SC, or wherever you might be located. However, before that, you need to understand the different types of commercial roofing that are available in the market.

6 types of commercial roofing and what environments they are best suited for

Photo from Pexels

Today, commercial roofs are available in a variety of materials, and each one has different qualities. The material of the roof you choose for your commercial property contributes significantly to sustaining the health of the building.

Do you know why? Because the surrounding environment and external weather conditions can damage your building’s roof, so you need to ensure that you’re going for the one that is most suited for your building. For instance, if you are looking at roofing in Denver you will need to look for a roofing solution that can withstand  the full range of Colorado weather extremes.

Not sure which roof type is best suited for your building? Don’t worry, we’ve got you covered! Here are the six most common types of commercial roofing and what environments they are best suited for:

1. Built-Up Roofing Membrane 

The built-up roofing membrane, also known as BUR, is made up of alternating layers of reinforcing fabric and bitumen (asphalt). These layers of bitumen are topped up with a layer of aggregate, like stones or gravel.

BUR is mostly suited for flat roofs or low-slope ones because it ensures a sealed surface. Apart from this, if you’re looking to go for a roof that provides excelled waterproofing and ultra-violet protection, then BUR should be your go-to choice.

Another good thing about BUR is that it is generally low-maintenance, thereby reducing the overall maintenance cost over its life.

In addition to waterproofing and UV protection, BUR systems are often paired with architectural roof and floor hatches to provide safe, convenient access for maintenance or inspections. These hatches function as durable, weather-resistant entry points built directly into the roof, allowing teams to reach elements like solar panels and other rooftop equipment without compromising the roofing membrane’s protective qualities. By integrating a properly engineered hatch, building owners can ensure their BUR roof maintains long-term performance while still allowing secure and efficient access when needed.

2. Modified Bitumen Roofing

Modified bitumen roofing membranes originated from Europe and have been used commonly in the US and Canada since1975. This type of commercial roofing has a layer of asphalt, designed for buildings that have a low slope or flat roof structures. 

Modified bitumen roofing has a five-layer combination of roofing material. These layers are:

  1. Insulation
  2. Modified Base Sheets or Plies
  3. Modified Bitumen Membranes
  4. Adhesive
  5. Surfacing

Modified bitumen roofing can withstand harsh weather conditions like intense heat and rainfall, and doesn’t crack due to its high-tensile strength. The material of the roof is highly durable, and that’s why it is most suited for areas with unpredictable weather.

For example, commercial building owners prefer modified bitumen roofing Dallas because the weather in the city remainshot for most of the year. The roofing material is made of rubber and plastic and provides a roofing solution that can expand and contract in the fluctuating temperatures of Dallas.

3. Metal Roofing

Another type of commercial roofing on our list is none other than the metal roofing. It is a popular commercial roof type because it is available in different kinds of material, for example:

  • Aluminum
  • Tile Sheets
  • Coated or Stainless Steel
  • Corrugated Galvanized Steel
  • Copper
  • Tin 

Since metal can get rusted easily, therefore metal roofing has several protective layers added to prevent any damage, corrosion, or wear and tear. 

Besides this, the good thing about the metal roofing system is that it ensures an attractive and finished look. Moreover, such roofing systems help create a sustainable design for your office building because of increased durability. So, if this feels right for your building, get in touch with Commercial Roofing services in your area to get the ball rolling.

4. Green Roofing

Research shows that the temperature on a green roof on one of the hottest summer days can be as much as 59 degrees cooler compared to conventional roofs on neighboring buildings.

Similarly, another finding revealed that in the winter season,green roofing results in a 10 percent decrease in building energy usage.

The green roofing system is sustainable and can last for around 30 – 50 years because it has a waterproof membrane that is covered entirely by green plants. 

Apart from this, the green roofing system improves air quality and provides an eco-friendly place for employees to relax or rest. However, such roofing systems require continuous maintenance and monitoring for the best results.

5. Thermoset Roof Membrane

The thermoset roof membrane is also commonly known as EPDM roofing.
This type of commercial roofing system is long-lasting and
requires the simple installation and light maintenance compared to other
types of roofing systems. 

6. Thermoplastic PVC and TPO Roof Membranes

If you want to protect your building from adverse weather conditions, then thermoplastic polyolefin and Ply Vinyl Chloride roofing is the most suited option for you. It is because the roof can withstand UV light effectively.

Moreover, such types of roofs made from Kydex sheets are light-weight, fire-resistant, and puncture-resistant. So, if you want to get a roof that stays in top condition for a long time, you should opt for thermoplastic PVC and TPO roof membranes.

Final Words 

All in all, if you require a new roof for your commercial property, you need to address the following questions first:

  • Is your roof going to face the sun?
  • Will it be exposed to chemicals or grease?
  • Is your building located in an area with extreme weather conditions?
  • Will the roof be walked-on?

Answering these questions will help you determine which type of roofing system should be your go-to choice. 

Apart from this, the best way out is to hire a reliable and trustworthy roofing company with the required expertise to help you select the best commercial roofing from the list mentioned above.

Follow: