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Explaining Commercial Roof Types

Choosing a roof for your commercial building can be daunting. There are a variety of commercial roof types and materials available, so it’s challenging to choose the best fit for your needs. Let’s dive into the different types of commercial roofing systems and their benefits to help you decide the best option for you.

What You’ll Learn About

  1. What Are the Different Commercial Roof Types?
  2. Types of Commercial Flat Roofing Materials
  3. Types of Roof Membranes

Key Points

  • The most common commercial roof types are flat and low slope roofs.
  • Flat roofs are typically more cost-effective to build than other commercial roof types because they require less material.
  • Choosing a low-sloped roof for your building allows for water runoff.
  • Roofing membranes are thin protective materials that prevent leaks.
  • Different commercial roof types and materials are categorized as membranes, like thermoplastic polyolefin (TPO) and modified bitumen.
  • Many building owners prefer TPO for their flat roofing system because it’s a long-term, cost-effective solution.
  • TPO has become the preferred commercial roof type over ethylene propylene diene terpolymer (EPDM).
  • Businesses near beaches and saltwater often opt for metal as their preferred roofing material because of its resistance to sand and UV rays.

What Are the Different Commercial Roof Types?

The most common commercial roof types are flat and low slope roofs. Both options have distinct benefits and are compatible with a wide range of materials that protect your building, make it visually appealing, and lower energy costs.
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Flat Roofs

Flat roofs are typically more cost-effective to build than other commercial roof types because they require less material. Thanks to a seamless, fast installation process, you can save money on labor by choosing a flat roofing system for your commercial building. There are also a variety of materials and membranes compatible with flat roofs, like EPDM, TPO, spray-on, and metal.

Low Slope Roofs

Choosing a low-sloped roof for your building allows for water runoff. Its unique design directs water to roof valleys, saddles, and drains to prevent standing water or puddling. A low-sloped roof decreases the chance of needing a repair or replacement, since the roof’s design ensures proper water runoff. There are also a variety of materials and membranes compatible with low-sloped roofs, like EPDM, TPO, and modified bitumen.

Types of Commercial Flat Roofing Materials

If you’ve decided that a flat roof is the best option for your building, it’s time to consider the type of material you want. Consider the following types of commercial flat roofing materials to choose the best fit for your needs:

TPO Flat Roofs

Many building owners prefer thermoplastic polyolefin (TPO) for their flat roofing system because it’s a long-term, cost-effective solution. If a commercial TPO roof is taken care of with preventative maintenance, it can last up to 20 years. TPO roofs are also designed to reflect the sun’s rays, which keeps your building cool in the summer and increases energy efficiency.

EPDM Flat Roofs

Ethylene propylene diene terpolymer, or EPDM roofs, are made of synthetic rubber and are extremely durable. While EPDM flat roofs are designed to last 20 years, the material shrinks over time, leading to cracks, leaks, and increased penetration from HVAC units and pipes. Today, TPO has become the preferred commercial roof type over EPDM.

Metal Flat Roofs

Metal is another popular commercial roof type, especially in Florida. Businesses near beaches and saltwater often opt for metal as their preferred roofing material because of its resistance to sand and UV rays. Another significant advantage to metal roofing is its extensive lifespan. The average lifespan of a metal roof is 40 to 70 years, more than double the useful life of shingle roofs.

 At Floridian Roofing & Solar, our roofing specialists have the expertise to install and maintain a variety of roofing systems using reliable materials from leading manufacturers.

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Types of Roof Membranes

Roofing membranes are thin protective materials that prevent leaks.

Typically manufactured from large sheets of thin material, membranes are categorized as thermoset or thermoplastic. Thermoset materials are set after they’re heated and permanently retain their shape, while thermoplastic materials can be reheated and reshaped repeatedly. Different commercial roof types and materials are categorized as membranes, like TPO and modified bitumen. Membranes also come in different colors, but building owners often choose white to increase energy efficiency. Below are the most popular types of roof membranes:

Modified Bitumen

Modified bitumen is a type of roof membrane that’s a cross between rubber and asphalt. An ideal option for low-sloped commercial and residential roofs, modified bitumen is highly flexible, durable, and easy to repair. It’s also equipped with tear-resistant qualities, thanks to its sturdy combination of fiberglass and polyester reinforcement layers. This popular commercial roof type is also energy efficient. The asphalt coating increases energy efficiency by providing your roof with a reflective surface to minimize heat absorption, reducing the stress on your HVAC system.

TPO

TPO roofing is a single-ply membrane system introduced in 1989 and has quickly become the preferred commercial roofing system across the country. TPO uses plasticizers to increase flexibility, resulting in an extremely versatile roofing material. TPO also prevents leaks by supporting standing water. This roofing is easy to clean and resists mold and bacterial growth.

A Leading Roofer Specializing in All Commercial Roof Types

At Floridian Roofing, our experienced team is familiar with a wide variety of commercial roof types and materials, from flat and low slope to TPO, metal, and modified bitumen. We also offer composite roof systems that enhance your building’s appearance. If you’re not ready to replace your commercial roof yet, we can add an extra layer of protection to your existing roof with a roof coating, a 100% high-volume silicone material that creates a flexible and moisture-resistant seal. Contact us today to learn more about how we can help you choose the best roofing option for your commercial building.

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Floridian Roofing & Solar is a full-service provider of commercial and residential roofing services. We use our 20 years of experience to put a durable roof over your head.

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