There are a variety of different types of flat roofs that can be on any commercial building. Knowing the kind of roof makes all the difference in ensuring that the roof has all the necessary upkeep and repairs from professional commercial roofers to last. So what kind of flat roof does your roof have?
Metal Roof
It’s easy to distinguish a metal roof on any building. They are most commonly made of steel or aluminum and their shiny material stands out. This roofing type is expensive upfront but will last many years to come. Rusting is the biggest concern. If rust develops, it can compromise the strength of the roof. Technically, metal roofs are low-sloped roofs but have declined in popularity in recent years as other roofing choices have become more affordable and reliable.
Polyurethane Spray Foam Coating (SPF)
This type of roofing is designed to keep water out with a spray over the top to waterproof the roofing material. It will look like a white or gray roof with a spray pattern over top of it. This type of roofing material is flexible and keeps commercial roofs from cracking or splitting. It must be installed during warmer weather and cannot be installed during the winter months, which can be a downfall for some businesses needing a roof replacement.
Asphalt Roofing
There are two types of asphalt roofing, Built-up roofing, known as BUR, and modified bitumen, known as mod bit. BUR roofing looks like a tar or gravel type roof while mod bit is a rubber counterpart. Because of the grave in BUR, it is one of the most waterproofing roofing materials on the market. It also has extra fire resistance. But installation is a lengthy process and BUR roofing can still incur wind and water damage. Mod bit, the more updated version of BUR, is light in color so that it reflects heat and can lower electric bills. It is also a great roof to hold up to cooler temperatures. The downside is that it does have a shorter lifespan than other roofing materials.
Single-Ply Membranes
EPDM, TPO, and PVC roofing systems are all single-ply membrane roofing types. The EPDM roof also looks like it is covered in rubber and the flashing looks like they are rubber as well. This is an affordable roofing choice for many commercial properties, but they can be expensive and less attractive than other roofing options. TPO and PVC are white in color and pulled tight over the top of buildings. PVC roofing specifically is very durable. It is resistant to wind, fire, and waterproof, giving it one of the longest lifespans in roofing materials. But it does require the old roof to be torn off
Whatever type of roof you have, you want to be sure to make all the necessary roofing repairs so that it will last a long time. Regular inspection by a commercial roofing company can ensure every roof repair is dealt with in a timely manner. Certified Commercial Roofing can do just that. Give us a call today for all your commercial roofing needs.
