Types of Commercial Roofing Systems
For a building to be completely functional and dry, it needs a roof. As such, the primary objective of any type of roofing system is to maintain watertight integrity while keeping its contents safe from rainwater damage. But in today's commercial world many low-slope or flat roofs have become more than simple constructions - they've grown substantially over just the last few decades with new options from small factories to large buildings. With licensed professionals at Dusty Greer Roofing on board that specialize in different types of construction, we can provide anything you need when it comes to commercial, institutional, or industrial projects because every project has unique requirements which are best met by those who understand them inside and out!
What is a Commercial Roof?
A commercial roof is a building material utilized in protecting and sealing the top of commercial buildings. It covers the building’s framing and inhibits rain and other precipitation from entering the structure. Commercial roofing systems generally have a flat slope, unlike residential roofing systems, which are typically steeply sloped.
Difference between a Commercial Roof and a Residential Roof
Commercial roofs and residential roofs share a similar primary function: protecting your structural property or residence from elements such as rain and other precipitation. However, these two roof types are significantly distinguished by the roof slope, determined by the building size.
Residences are more petite. Hence they typically have a steep slope roofing system that is visible from the ground. Additionally, residential roofing systems utilize materials such as slate, shingles, architectural tile, and asphalt. On the other hand, the large size of commercial structures increases the tendency of commercial roofs to be flat or slightly sloped and not visible from the ground.
Commercial roofing systems come in various materials determined by the building structure and other factors such as climatic conditions like extreme cold and intense heat.
What are the Types of Commercial Roofing Systems in Building Construction?
Commercial roofing systems come in various forms, each built according to the structure’s needs and the owner’s budget. The type of commercial roof your business has played a significant role in the overall health of the company as well as the roof’s longevity. Over time, typical weather, the surrounding environment, and extraneous variables like foliage and animals will impact the roof’s integrity.
To enable you better comprehend what it takes to construct a quality product, you will need to hire the services of a commercial roofing contractor in Atlanta, GA. The professional commercial roofers in Dusty Greer Roofing are dedicated to providing exceptional customer services irrespective of whether you are looking for a roof replacement or installing a new metal roof on your industrial project.
Nevertheless, below is a guide on some of the most common types of commercial roofs and the roofing materials utilized in their creation.
· Metal Roofing
Metal roofs are a prevalent commercial roofing system since a variety of metal materials are available for utilization in such a roofing system, including:
Metal tile sheets
Stainless steel
Corrugated galvanized steel
Copper
Lead
Stone-coated steel
Tin
Aluminum
Aggregates of aluminum, silicon-coated steel, and zinc
Metal is inclined to rust. Therefore, protective surface layers are added to manage damage from prolonged exposure to sunlight and other ecological perils. Albeit having the advantage of presenting a beautiful, finished look, the budget and durability are of utmost significance. Hence, it is better to go for what works best instead of what looks best. Nevertheless, metal roofs have strong fire resistance ratings and are more durable than traditional commercial roofing systems. Moreover, they help create a more ecological design for your business or company.
· Modified Bitumen Roofing
Bitumen roofing system applies reinforced roof fabrics to act as ‘carriers.’ Later, they are cut and installed in layers, same as Built-Up Roof membranes. Modified Bitumen Roofing Systems are usually clasped to commercial rooftops as two-ply systems and adhered to the roofing deck for protection and maximum stability.
Maintaining this roofing system is simple as it can typically be handled with annual inspections and cleaning. Modified Bitumen Roofing Systems enhance tensile strength to many other flat roof types that experience regular foot traffic. This implies that if you anticipate a lot of activity on the rooftop of your commercial building, this roofing system may be the best solution.
· Built-Up Roofing (BUR) Membrane
BUR is precisely or exactly what you need for your commercial roofing project. This typical tar-and-gravel roofing system is flexible as it is built with several layers. The number of layers can be contrasted to help control expenses or meet specific durability necessities you may address. The Built-Up Roof membrane is an ancient low-sloped roof type. Additionally, it is one of the most cost-effective and tough roofing systems available today.
· Thermoplastic (PVC & TPO) Roof Membrane
TPO (Thermoplastic Polyolefin) and PVC (Poly Vinyl Chloride) roof types are lightweight and highly effective. Additionally, they offer outstanding weathering and resistance to ultraviolet light, most chemicals like animal fats, oils, and bacterial growth, as well as punctures and tears. The seam strength thermoplastic roofs provide also makes them ideal for second-generation applications. Their nature makes them perfect for restaurants and other enterprises that emit fats and oils from their ventilation systems.
· Garden ‘Green’ Roofing System
Green roofing systems are probably the most versatile type of commercial roof available today. They gained popularity in recent years and present a truly sustainable choice for commercial businesses and properties. The prominent advantage of garden ‘green’ roofs is that they protect commercial structures from the elements while enhancing energy efficiency and managing water and drainage. They are attractive and a huge step towards a more ecological, environmentally friendly commercial business.
· Thermoset (EPDM) Roof Membrane
EPDM roofing provides a long-lasting sturdiness and versatility, paired with a simple installation and ease of commercial roof repair or roof maintenance compared to several other commercial roofing systems. Thermoset roof membranes boast a strong UV light and ozone resistance and are built from a single-ply rubber material. Other merits of EPDM incorporate highly reflective properties that help reduce cooling costs, flexibility in colder temperatures, and resistance to some solvents, alcohol, and acids.
Dusty Greer Roofing offers roofing services with its 5-decade of combined construction and roofing prowess. We provide roof replacement, apply roof coatings, re-roofing, and handle roof repair maintenance for offices, hospitals, churches, schools, manufacturing facilities, and other properties. Some of the satisfied businesses and customers we have had an absolute pleasure serving include Carrollton Highschool in Carrollton, GA, and Burke County Cotton Warehouse in Waynesboro, GA.
Consult the Premier Industrial and Commercial Roofing Company in Atlanta, GA
Commercial roofing services comprise much more than installing or replacing roofs on industrial warehouses or office buildings. It involves adding elastomeric roof coatings to commercial roofs, installing a new roof on apartment complexes, or doing roof repairs on churches, hospitals, and other structures. When looking for a commercial roofer in Atlanta, GA, and the surrounding area, building managers and developers turn to a trusted local team of commercial roofers – Dusty Greer Roofing. We are a completely licensed and insured commercial roofing company providing a wide variety of commercial roof solutions throughout the Atlanta area. Get to learn more about our team or schedule an appointment for a free estimate on commercial roofing services.