Commercial buildings are buildings used for business purposes. Whether it’s a warehouse or office space, it’s a commercial structure if it’s used for a business. Usually, these buildings aren’t built the same way a house is as it doesn’t require as many specifications. However, one thing that is the same is the need for a roof. The roof, a structure covering the building, must be crafted to fit the building and to ensure its contents are protected. Roofs on homes and commercial buildings are slightly different, and some roofing materials are more suited to commercial buildings than others.
Commercial Roofing is essential to ensure a property is sheltered. Here are just a few types of roofing materials that can be used on various buildings.
Thermoplastic Polyolefins (TPOs)
Most roofs are built at a slight angle to ensure rainwater runs down into the gutters. However, there are some occasions where a roof can be made flat. This may be because solar panels are being installed or because it’s easier to fix if anything were to go wrong. Anyhow, TPO is an excellent material to use for a flat roof. It has been crafted so that it’s ductile and has great resistance. It’s durable, resistant to UV exposure and can handle any weather condition. Not to mention, it’s incredibly affordable too!
These roofs are quick to install, depending on the size of the roof, and rarely require maintenance. If anything were to happen, the experts in commercial roof replacement in Sarasota, FL can help you repair any damage. This is a great choice for most commercial buildings, although if the building has a flat roof, it may just be the best roofing material there is. However, it’s not wholly resistant to chemicals, so if chemicals are being used in the commercial space, it might not be the best roofing material.
Polyvinyl Chloride (PVC)
PVC is a commonly used material in construction. Aside from roofs, it’s often used for doors and window frames as it’s incredibly durable and steady. It’s a premium roofing material, and although it costs a little more than other roofing materials, it’s well worth it as it has some exceptional characteristics. It will last for many years and has an incredibly long service life. Plus, it’s relatively low maintenance. A good PVC roof is lightweight but can endure any weather type as well as being chemical resistant. PVC roofs are often fire-resistant and are highly resistant to oxidation reactions, making them exceptionally safer than other roof types.
As an added benefit, PVC roofing is also more environmentally friendly compared to other roofing materials. The membrane of the roof will have high solar reflectivity, so less energy is wasted from the building.
Modified Bitumen (MB)
MB is an asphalt-based roofing material. It can be used on slanted or flat roofs and is a great addition to any commercial building. These roofs are crafted with multiple layers and are designed to withstand harsh elements and exposure. The layers, including insulation, base sheets, membranes, adhesive and surfacing, are intended to strengthen the roof as well as keep it protected. These added layers also mean it has excellent waterproofing characteristics. This material has an excellent track record and has high tensile strength. So much so, it can withstand heavy foot traffic with ease. So, if people need to get to the roof often, this is a good choice.
EPDM and BUR are also suitable options for a commercial roof, but really, it all depends on the commercial building and what it’s being used for. As with any other building material, some are more suited to some structures compared to others. Consult with a roofing professional to determine which roof is best suited to a building type.