A. Parker Contracting protects businesses, assets, and employees from the elements. Choosing the right roof is an important decision for any business.
Roofing professionals can create efficient designs considering factors like drainage systems, insulation, and energy requirements. They can also help with preventative maintenance and regular inspections to ensure the longevity of your roof system.
Shingles are popular roofing materials for commercial buildings and come in a variety of colors, designs and styles. They can provide an attractive aesthetic to a building while providing durability and reducing the cost of energy bills. However, it is important to work with a qualified roofing contractor to ensure that shingle roofs are installed correctly for increased durability and energy efficiency.
There are several different types of shingles that can be used for commercial roofing, including asphalt shingles and wood shingles. Each type of shingle has its own benefits and drawbacks, but the best option for your business will depend on your budget, climate, roof support structure and other factors.
Asphalt shingles are made of a base material of fiberglass, felt or organic paper, which is then coated with asphalt and granules. They are inexpensive compared to other roofing materials, easy to install and available in a wide variety of colors and styles. They also offer protection from extreme weather, as well as fire and wind resistance.
Aside from their affordability, shingles are also very durable and resistant to damage from hail. Their small size also makes them easier to repair than other roofing materials, and they often come with a lifetime warranty. In addition, shingle roofs are quieter than other roofing materials, which helps to reduce noise from the inside of your building.
Commercial shingles are available in a variety of thicknesses and grades, with budget options like three-tab shingles offering the lowest cost and the least durability. Higher-end architectural shingles are thicker and provide added insulation and weatherproofing, as well as a more attractive appearance. They may also be able to receive additional manufacturer’s warranties if properly installed by a licensed roofing contractor and regularly maintained.
Choosing the right shingle for your business is a big decision that should be taken seriously. Your business needs to choose a roof that is durable, affordable and aesthetically pleasing. A qualified roofing contractor will be able to help you determine which type of shingle is best for your building and can help you select a warranty that fits your needs.
Metal has been used in roofing for centuries and is one of the most durable roof options available. It can last up to 60 years or more, resists harsh weather conditions like hail and high winds, and doesn’t rust. It’s also fire-resistant and energy-efficient. These are just some of the reasons that commercial property owners prefer a metal roof.
Aside from its durability and longevity, metal is also easy to maintain. The only downside of metal roofing is that it can be more expensive than shingle systems. However, the upfront cost can pay for itself over time with a higher lifespan and lower maintenance costs.
One of the most common types of metal commercial roofing is standing seam metal panels, which are fabricated with interlocking seams to guarantee a seamless finish and sleek aesthetic. These are a great choice for flat or pitched roofs, and the specialized design minimizes the need for additional structural support. This type of roof is also more resilient to wind uplift and can withstand heavier loads than a traditional shingle system.
Another option for commercial roofing is galvanized steel, which provides similar benefits to standing seam metal but at a lower cost. It’s more resistant to corrosive elements than stainless steel and can be painted in a variety of colors, which makes it an ideal choice for businesses that want the look of a metal roof but need a more economical alternative.
Corrugated metal roofing is another option for commercial property owners looking to add an industrial or rustic look to their building. This is a popular choice for warehouses and large strip malls, and can be customized to match the overall aesthetic of the structure. It is also very durable, withstanding extreme weather and even snowfall without accumulating or leaking water.
Another option for commercial roofing is aluminum, which is lighter than steel and has some of the same properties. However, it is prone to denting and corrosion if it is not properly installed. If you are considering this type of commercial roof, it is important to work with a qualified roofer that has experience installing aluminum roofing and knows how to prevent these issues.
Single-ply commercial roofing systems are non-asphalt roof membranes that provide durable protection from the elements. They can stand up to sun, wind, rain and snow for decades with minimal maintenance. The durability of a single-ply membrane also means that it can resist chemicals and UV light. The most common types of single ply roofs are EPDM, TPO and PVC.
Both TPO and EPDM are synthetic rubber roof membranes that are popular in cold climate areas. They are available in a variety of colors and thicknesses to meet the unique needs of your building. TPO and EPDM are manufactured in large sheets before they’re transported to the site for installation. This prefabrication results in higher consistency and less seams, which can improve the longevity of your roof.
In addition to being highly water-resistant, single-ply roofing systems are reflective, reducing energy costs by keeping your building cool. They are also very strong and lightweight, making them easier to install and transport. Single-ply membranes can be fully or mechanically adhered to your existing roofing system, or they can be self-adhered. The choice of attachment method will depend on factors like the type of existing roofing, local regulations, and the design of your building.
During installation, a single-ply membrane is applied to your existing roof with adhesive or a waterproof sealant. The membrane is then rolled down and glued to the substrate, and any penetrations are covered with an overhang or a flashing. If your building has a low-slope, the single-ply membrane can be attached with ballast, which involves using pavers or stones to hold the membrane in place.
Because of the strength and durability of single-ply roofs, they can withstand the weight of ice and snow. However, this type of roof requires more frequent inspections to make sure that the membrane is intact and that all penetrations are sealed. The flexible nature of the membranes can also be susceptible to puncture from dropped tools and foot traffic, which can lead to leaks in the seams. The good news is that these leaks are typically easy to repair, so they can be repaired quickly.
Green roofs are becoming increasingly popular as people become more environmentally conscious. While they aren’t for every commercial building, they can provide a number of benefits. They can reduce energy costs by providing insulation, help control the temperature of the building, and reduce rainwater runoff by absorbing and returning it to the atmosphere. They can also reduce the amount of pollution that is runoff into waterways.
They can be made from a variety of plants and materials, and can range in size and scope. Some are installed as a single section of the roof, while others are modular units that can be assembled to cover a large area. Many green roofs use a combination of plants, including trees, shrubs, herbs, and sedums. They may also include a layer of filter material to prevent erosion.
Depending on the type of green roof, the plants will need different amounts of water. The vegetation on an extensive green roof can often be self-sustaining, with mosses and other low-maintenance plants. Some of the more intensive green roofs will require an irrigation system to maintain their lush appearance.
A commercial roofing contractor that specializes in green roofs can assist with planning, design, and installation. They can determine if the existing roof structure can support the added weight of a green roof, and perform an assessment to look for cracks, dents, and other damage that could lead to structural failure or water leaks.
Some green roofs are planted with native species of plants to create a natural landscape that mimics the surrounding area. Alternatively, some green roofs are left with bare substrate so that the local flora will naturally colonize it. These types of green roofs are sometimes called “biological roofs” and can be very effective in reducing stormwater runoff, reducing greenhouse gas emissions, and improving air quality.
A green roof can be used on new construction or as an extension of an existing structure. The extra weight can place a significant strain on the existing roof structure, so it is important to hire a roofing professional to ensure that the roof can support the additional weight. A professional will also be able to identify issues with the existing roof, such as flaws in the waterproofing or insulation, and can suggest any necessary repairs before installing greenery.