Understanding Commercial Flat Roofing
Commercial flat roofing is a popular option for several reasons. With numerous benefits and styles to choose from, flat commercial roofing systems are the most commonly used covering for businesses, regardless of the industry. But what makes these roofs so special? Continue reading to learn why industry professionals prefer single-ply roofing membranes and how experts like ROOFCORP can help install and maintain your roof system.
Why Is Commercial Flat Roofing So Common?
No matter the market or industry, there is one thing many businesses have in common—commercial flat roofing systems. Flat roofs, also known as low-slope roofs, are contractors’ and building owners’ go-to roof type for multiple reasons. Flat roofs are versatile, with various materials and colors to choose from. Here are some of the most notable advantages of flat commercial roofing.
Multifunctionality
Flat roofs are spacious and easily accessible. Because of this, they’re perfect for heating and cooling equipment, such as boilers and air conditioning units. Since the space is wide open, it’s more efficient to use as much space as you can on the roof instead of areas in your building.
Additionally, flat roofs can be converted into rooftop patios. This gives your associates and visitors a place to meet and enjoy the weather while still on company grounds. Upgrading your roof to a patio also boosts its value, so you get a more significant return on your investment if you ever put your building on the market.
Simplicity
Flat roofs are a preferred choice for commercial buildings due to their simple construction, modern aesthetic, and accessibility. Their clean, minimalist design complements various commercial architectural styles. They also offer easy access to maintenance, repairs, and installing equipment such as HVAC units. This convenience ensures efficient servicing and keeps the building’s systems in top condition, making them a practical and functional option for commercial structures.
Cost Effectiveness
Flat roofs are much more affordable than high-pitched roofs. Business owners have plenty to pay for as it is, and they must be mindful of their company budget. Flat roofing provides reliable protection for a fraction of the cost of traditional roofing systems. Since the materials are inexpensive and the labor is often quick, building owners spend less on materials and installation costs.
Durability
Commercial flat roofing is made of industrial materials that stand up against harsh weather. For instance, if you install an asphalt flat roof, a mixture of aggregates, binders, and fillers, it’s sturdier and weather-resistant. Depending on what kind you have, flat roofs may last up to 30 years with routine maintenance.
Don’t stand by while your roof falls apart. Reach out to ROOFCORP today to keep your TPO flat roof in excellent shape.
Types of Commercial Flat Roofing
Different types of commercial flat roofs require specific maintenance, depending on the material and its level of durability. Some of the leading commercial flat roofing materials and their needed care include:
TPO Membranes
TPO (thermoplastic polyolefin) roofing is an energy-efficient flat roofing system. As arguably the best choice for your commercial building, TPO membranes offer several benefits. In addition to its affordability and simple installation, it’s also versatile and available in multiple colors to suit every building owner’s preferences.
Professionals need to check the seams and flashing to ensure your TPO roping system lasts. When roofing materials expand and contract due to weather, thermal shock wreaks havoc on the system’s vulnerable areas, causing seams and flashing to pull apart. Routine inspections allow contractors to catch this issue before it gets out of hand and eliminate it early on.
Silicone Roof Coatings
A silicone flat roof coating is essentially silicone metal. It creates a flexible moisture-resistant barrier that seals the cracks or openings in the surface. Since silicone roof coatings are the perfect alternative to re-roofing or a roof replacement, they save building owners tons of money in the long run. However, it’s important to take care of a silicone coating to make it last as long as possible.
Silicone flat roof coatings collect dirt and dust easily. If the surface is covered in filth, it ruins the roof’s UV reflectivity. To keep the roof clean, schedule routine power washes. A light pressure wash works perfectly, and it’s not too harsh on the coating. Additionally, it’s wise to recoat the surface every 10 to 20 years, depending on the coating’s thickness, which is 25 or 35 mils.
EPDM Roofs
EPDM (ethylene propylene diene monomer) flat roofing is a favored choice for commercial buildings due to its durability, cost-effectiveness, and low maintenance. Its synthetic rubber membrane resists weathering, UV radiation, and extreme temperatures, ensuring a long service life.
EPDM roofing is easy to install, making it a cost-efficient option for large commercial structures. Its flexibility and resistance to tears and punctures provide reliable protection for the building, making it a solid choice for commercial roofing needs.
PVC Roofs
PVC (polyvinyl chloride) flat roofing systems are an excellent choice for commercial facilities. These thermoplastic membranes are highly durable, providing resistance to chemicals, UV exposure, and severe weather conditions. PVC roofing is low-maintenance and boasts a long service life, making it a cost-effective solution. Its energy efficiency and reflective properties contribute to reduced cooling costs, enhancing its appeal for commercial applications.
Working With a Professional
Regardless of what kind of commercial flat roofing system you have, it’s vital to take care of it. It’s common for building owners to forget about their roof’s condition since it’s out of sight and out of mind. However, enrolling in an annual maintenance program extends its lifespan and prevents you from overspending on repairs.
By partnering with a reputable roofing company, you can maintain, replace, or install commercial flat roofing for decades. Experienced roofing providers, like ROOFCORP, can perform regular roof inspections to identify weak points, and if your building isn’t using an ideally matched roofing system for the climate, we can determine the best match.
Browse ROOFCORP’s Lineup of Commercial Flat Roofing Systems
With our 200 combined years of experience, there’s little to nothing that ROOFCORP can’t do when it comes to your commercial building’s roofing needs. We specialize in repairing, installing, and restoring all systems, such as:
- Metal flat roofs
- Single-ply flat roofs
- TPO membranes
- Modified bitumen flat roofs
We aim to eliminate your roofing struggles and provide you with a structure you can rely on. Reach out today to get in touch with our experts and schedule an assessment—we look forward to working with you.