Choosing the best roofing material for your business is no small task – there are so many materials available on the market and so many design solutions that picking the right combination might feel daunting. To make your task easier, here are some of the top materials used on commercial roofs.
Metal
One of the most durable materials available on the market today is also one of the most appreciated solutions for commercial applications. Metal roofing panels are made from various alloys, including steel, aluminum, copper, coated and galvanized varieties, all of them offering a lifespan of around five decades and very low maintenance and repair needs. Though the metal sheets used on roofs are strong and durable, their resistance to the effects of the elements can be further enhances with the help of protective coatings.
EPDM Roofing
These membranes are made from synthetic rubber and they are ideal for being used on any low-sloping roofs, in any climate area. The material is lightweight, therefore suitable for buildings that use lightweight frames and its superior resistance to UV radiation makes it the perfect solution for roofs in hot climate areas.
BUR
Built-up roofs are roofing systems that have been around for a long time and are likely to stay popular in the future, too. BUR systems have a lot to offer, such as resistance to high traffic, very low maintenance needs, durability and resistance to the elements and affordability.
PVC Roofing
These systems are usually made up from two layers of PVC, with a layer of polyester between the layers of PVC. The UV-resistance and the flexibility of the material are ensured with the help of additives. The solution is resistant to fire, therefore it is especially suitable for sensitive applications. The only downside of the material is that repair is very difficult, therefore the replacement of the deteriorated panel is usually the preferred solution.
TPO Roofing
The material is relatively new on the market, but it is becoming increasingly popular due to the great qualities it offers. It is very quick and easy to install (it does require professional mounting, but the process takes very short to complete), it does not develop leaks and it is also very easy to maintain. TPO stands for thermoplastic polyolefin, a synthetic rubber that comes with all the flexibility and durability that can be expected of rubber.
Coating Products
According to some of the best commercial roofing companies Connecticut has, commercial roofs need to be constructed from the right material to offer long-lasting and reliable performance, but there are also many supplementary products that can – and should – be used for enhancing the protection offered by the roof. These products usually come in the form of coatings that need to be applied regularly on the roof surface. Today, there are special coatings available for improving the roof’s resistance to water penetration, to make them more resistant to UV radiation or to impact. Most of these products are of the consistency of thick paint and they can be applied the same way as paint, with brushes, rollers or from spray cans.