Commercial properties have different roofing needs than residential properties. They must withstand high winds, snow loads, and other factors that can lead to damage and leaks.
This is why choosing the right type of commercial roof is important. Luckily, there are a variety of choices. For more information, visit https://www.roofersincolumbusga.com/.
Elastomeric coatings are fluid-applied and can be applied directly to most commercial roof substrates. They are resistant to mold and mildew, highly water-resistant, and flexible, allowing them to expand and contract with the movement of the building. They are also durable and very impact-resistant. This makes them ideal for repairing damaged areas of the roof as well as waterproofing a flat roof system.
There are several types of elastomeric roof coatings that can be used for different applications. The most common type of roof coating is an acrylic elastomeric. It is an economical option that works with most roofing materials. This coating is easy to install and cleans up easily. It is available in a wide range of colors and can be used to repair leaks and to upgrade the appearance of the roof.
Another popular elastomeric roof coating is polyurethane. This type of coating can be used to repair and protect new and existing roof systems. It is a great choice for sloped roofs, as it can be spray-applied and can help to reduce energy costs. This is because it reflects heat and sunlight, reducing the need for air conditioning.
Urethane is also a great choice for roofs because it has excellent adhesion and can be used to repair damaged areas of the roof. This coating can be used to repair cracks and seams in the roofing membrane, as well as to improve the overall performance of the roof. It is highly reflective, which helps to reduce energy costs, and it can be used in conjunction with other roofing materials such as PVC and TPO.
When choosing an elastomeric roof coating, it is important to find the right type for your specific needs. For example, if your roof is heavily shaded or is near the coast, you may want to choose a higher-performance urethane. This is because it is more effective at blocking UV rays, which can damage the roof and cause premature wear and leaks.
When selecting a roof coating, it is also important to consider the warranty offered by the manufacturer. Most roof coatings offer warranties that last up to 25 years and can be renewed. This is an extremely cost-effective way to protect your investment and extend the lifespan of your roof.
Single-Ply Membranes
Single-ply membranes are a popular commercial roofing option for flat roofs. They are easy to install and offer durability and energy savings. Single-ply membranes can be installed in several ways, including ballasted, chemically adhered, or mechanically fastened. Some of the most common single-ply membranes used in commercial roofing include thermoplastic polyolefin (TPO), EPDM, and PVC.
TPO membranes are a blend of rubber and synthetic materials that provide good durability. They are available in a variety of colors and have reflective surfaces that can significantly reduce your building’s energy costs. TPO is also flexible and resists impact damage, bacterial growth, and root penetration. TPO is also easy to clean and maintain.
EPDM roofs are made from rubber that is highly resistant to changing weather conditions and UV radiation. It’s available in a variety of thicknesses and can be used as a roof insulation layer. EPDM membranes can be hot-air heat welded or chemically bonded to the substrate. This type of roofing can be fully adhered, ballasted, or mechanically fastened and is also a great choice for extensive vegetated roofing systems since it’s resistant to plant roots.
Both PVC and EPDM are durable, waterproof, and lightweight. Both are available in a range of colors and can be used as a single membrane or in a layered system with a built-up roof or metal panel. PVC and EPDM roofs can be used under a wide variety of building penetrations and are often used for the waterproofing layer beneath a concrete deck. They are also suitable for use as a waterproofing underlayment for gravel-based built-up roofs.
While single-ply membranes are a very viable commercial roofing solution, they do have some disadvantages. They do not have any built-in redundancy, and a puncture or faulty seam can lead to water ingress into the roof substructure and the interior of the building. Additionally, they cannot be patched as easily as other commercial roofing systems. This means that any leaks or repairs need to be made in the entire membrane area, rather than in specific roof details. Because of their lack of redundancy, they are also more susceptible to long-term failure than multi-ply bituminous membranes.
Tar and Gravel Built-Up Roofing
Tar and gravel built-up roofing (BUR) is a long-standing flat roof technology that has been in use for decades. It consists of multiple layers of ply and asphalt coated with a layer of gravel. This protects the underlying ply and offers a slip-resistant surface. This roofing system is highly durable and offers excellent energy efficiency. The gravel on the top also helps to reflect the sun’s heat and minimizes UV damage.
The downside of a tar and gravel roof is that it is heavy. It may require a structural upgrade for the building to handle the extra weight. It’s also not recommended for areas with a lot of rainfall or snow, as the gravel can shift and expose the tar membrane to damage.
Experts recommend that a tar and gravel roof be inspected at least once a year to ensure there are no cracks or tears. It’s important to have a plan in place for the maintenance of a tar and gravel roof to ensure it can last for as long as possible.
If you notice leaks or other problems with a tar and gravel roof, contact a commercial roofing company right away. Moisture that is allowed to penetrate the tar and gravel can damage walls, insulation and create health hazards inside the building. Leaking tar and gravel can also cause wood to rot, causing serious damage to the structure of the building.
A tar and gravel roof can be difficult to spot a leak, as the contractor must remove all of the gravel stones to find the problem area. This can take a significant amount of time and cost compared to other roofing options like a membrane or polyurethane foam roof, which allow contractors to quickly and easily spot leaks.
If you’re interested in replacing your commercial roof, you’ll want to explore all of the different options available to you. There are many benefits to choosing a new roof that includes reducing your energy bills, improving the aesthetic of your property and increasing its overall value. By understanding the different types of flat roofing, you’ll be able to make the best decision for your business.
Metal Roofing
Metal roofing provides durability, energy efficiency, and a long lifespan that is a significant improvement over other commercial roofing materials. It also combines well with a wide range of architectural styles, from traditional to modern.
When choosing a metal roof, look for high-quality materials and a professional installer. Make sure your choice is compatible with your local building codes, and that it complies with ventilation and insulation requirements. In addition, check with your insurance provider to see if your metal roof qualifies for a discount due to its fire resistance.
Most metal roofs are made from galvanized or galvalume steel, aluminum, or a combination of these materials. They can be coated with a variety of colors to match the architectural style of the building. Some are even available in corrugated designs to provide a unique aesthetic.
These roofs have excellent tensile strength, and are able to withstand heavy snowfall without damaging the structure beneath. They are also highly resistant to weather extremes, such as freezing winter temperatures and sweltering summer heat. They are also a great option for areas that frequently experience wildfires.
A metal roof is an expensive upgrade from other roofing materials, but it can pay for itself over the long term. They last for forty to 70 years, which is more than double the lifespan of composition shingles and asphalt shingle roofs. In addition, they are more energy-efficient than other roofing options, and their fire-resistant qualities can reduce commercial insurance rates.
Like other types of roofs, metal roofs require regular maintenance and repair. Regularly check for loose fasteners and leaks, and address them promptly to prevent further damage. Keep the roof clear of debris, and ensure that gutters are free of clogs. Using the right type of sealant on metal roofs is important, rather than the cheap tubes of home-center silicone. Special polyurethane formulations are designed to adhere well to metal and to flex with the roof. Also, make sure to use slip sheets of rosin paper between the roof and the underlayment, as this prevents water from getting past the metal seams.