The Ultimate Guide to Commercial Roofing

Jun 12, 2024

Protecting Your Investment:

Commercial roofing ain't just about slapping on some shingles and calling it a day. It's a whole different ball game compared to residential roofing, and it requires specialized knowledge, materials, and techniques.



Whether you're a seasoned property manager or a newbie business owner, understanding the ins and outs of commercial roofing is crucial to keeping your property in tip-top shape. So, buckle up and let's dive into the world of commercial roofing.


Types of Commercial Roofing

When it comes to commercial roofing, you've got a smorgasbord of options. Each type has its pros and cons, so it's important to choose the one that best fits your building's needs and your budget.



  1. EPDM (Ethylene Propylene Diene Terpolymer)
  • Pros: Durable, flexible, and resistant to UV rays and extreme temperatures.
  • Cons: Can be punctured easily and requires regular maintenance.

   2.  TPO (Thermoplastic Olefin)

  • Pros: Energy-efficient, resistant to mold and mildew, and easy to install.
  • Cons: Can be prone to punctures and doesn't perform well in extreme temperatures.

   3.  PVC (Polyvinyl Chloride)

  • Pros: Highly durable, chemical-resistant, and energy-efficient.
  • Cons: Can be expensive and may shrink over time.

   4. Modified Bitumen

  • Pros: Durable, easy to maintain, and good for flat roofs.
  • Cons: Can be prone to leaks if not installed properly and may require regular maintenance.

   5. BUR (Built-Up Roofing)

  • Pros: Extremely durable, resistant to UV rays, and provides excellent insulation.
  • Cons: Heavy, expensive, and requires professional installation.

   6. Metal Roofing

  • Pros: Long-lasting, durable, and energy-efficient.
  • Cons: Can be noisy during rainstorms and may require regular maintenance.


Benefits of Commercial Roofing

Investing in a high-quality commercial roof isn't just about keeping the rain out. There are several benefits that come with a well-maintained commercial roof:

  • Energy Efficiency: Modern commercial roofing materials like TPO and PVC can reflect sunlight, reducing your building's cooling costs.
  • Durability: A good commercial roof can withstand harsh weather conditions, protecting your building and its contents.
  • Aesthetics: A well-maintained roof enhances your building's curb appeal, which can be a big plus if you're looking to attract tenants or buyers.
  • Safety: A sturdy roof reduces the risk of leaks, mold, and other issues that can compromise the safety of your building's occupants.


Commercial Roofing Maintenance Tips

Keeping your commercial roof in good shape requires regular maintenance. Here are some tips to help you stay on top of things:

  • Regular Inspections: Schedule regular roof inspections, especially after severe weather events. This helps identify and address potential issues before they become major problems.
  • Clean Gutters and Drains: Clogged gutters and drains can lead to water pooling on your roof, which can cause leaks and other damage. Make sure to clean them regularly.
  • Trim Overhanging Branches: Overhanging branches can damage your roof during storms and can also provide a pathway for pests. Keep them trimmed back.
  • Address Repairs Promptly: If you notice any signs of damage, such as leaks or missing shingles, address them promptly to prevent further damage.
  • Invest in a Maintenance Program: Consider investing in a customized maintenance program that includes regular inspections, cleaning, and repairs. This can help extend the life of your roof and protect your investment.


Common Commercial Roofing Issues

Even with the best maintenance practices, commercial roofs can still experience issues. Here are some common problems to watch out for:

  • Leaks: Leaks can be caused by a variety of factors, including damaged roofing materials, clogged gutters, and poor installation. Regular inspections can help catch leaks early.
  • Ponding Water: Water that pools on your roof can cause leaks and other damage. Make sure your roof has proper drainage to prevent this issue.
  • Blisters and Cracks: Blisters and cracks can form in roofing materials due to extreme temperatures, UV exposure, and other factors. Address these issues promptly to prevent further damage.
  • Punctures: Punctures can be caused by foot traffic, falling branches, and other debris. Regular inspections can help identify and address punctures before they become a major problem.
  • Shrinkage: Some roofing materials, like PVC, can shrink over time, causing issues with seams and flashing. Regular inspections can help catch this issue early.


FAQs

1. How often should I have my commercial roof inspected?

It's recommended to have your commercial roof inspected at least twice a year, preferably in the spring and fall. Additionally, schedule inspections after severe weather events to catch any damage early.


2. Can I install a new commercial roof over my old one?

In some cases, you can install a new roof over an existing one, but it's not always recommended. It's best to consult with a professional to determine the best course of action for your specific situation.


3. How long does a commercial roof last?

The lifespan of a commercial roof depends on the materials used and how well it's maintained. On average, a commercial roof can last anywhere from 15 to 30 years, with some materials like metal roofing lasting even longer.


4. What should I do if I notice a leak in my commercial roof?

If you notice a leak, it's important to address it promptly to prevent further damage. Contact a professional roofing contractor to inspect and repair the issue as soon as possible.


5. How can I improve the energy efficiency of my commercial roof?

Consider installing reflective roofing materials like TPO or PVC, which can help reduce your building's cooling costs. Additionally, ensure your roof is properly insulated and that any gaps or leaks are sealed.


Commercial roofing is a critical component of your building's overall structure and performance. By understanding the different types of commercial roofing, their benefits, and how to maintain them, you can ensure your investment is protected for years to come. Regular inspections, prompt repairs, and investing in a maintenance program can go a long way in extending the life of your commercial roof and keeping your building in top shape. So, don't skimp on your roof – it's worth every penny!


By Marissa Robinson 05 Aug, 2023
When homeowners are getting a roof replacement project done, some contractors are a bit surprised when they realize that some homeowners don’t pay much attention to their roof’s ventilation. After all, proper ventilation does offer plenty of benefits to your roof and your home, especially if you live in an area that experiences as much heat as Florida does. As such, it’s highly recommended that you learn the importance of having proper roof ventilation in your home. Here’s why Florida homeowners should never skimp out on roofing ventilation systems.  They Keep Your Home Cool Roof vents are good tools to use if you want to control the temperature around your home. If you live in an area as hot as Florida, they can help you keep your home cool by preventing your attic and the rest of your home from retaining hot air and heating up, making your living space cooler and comfortable in the process. Apart from that, since poorly ventilated homes will force you to crank up your AC unit, having proper roof ventilation can help you keep utility costs down by reducing your reliance on your air conditioner. They Protect Your Roof Apart from keeping your home cool and reducing the costs of your monthly energy bills, proper roofing ventilation can also help you preserve the roof of your Florida home and help it last for a significant amount of time. This is because, with correct ventilation, the excess heat and moisture that becomes trapped in your attic can escape, preventing it from baking the shingles inside out. Planning to improve your roof’s ventilation? Simply turn to Total Roof Services Corp,. the number one pros to approach when it comes to storm damage roof repair and commercial roofing services. Give us a call at (407) 495-4151 to schedule a free consultation today!
By Marissa Robinson 05 Aug, 2023
When it comes to the topic of residential roofing projects, you’ll be pleased to learn that you have a wide range of choices when it comes to the material. After all, as the homeowner, you’re more than free to choose between materials like asphalt, slate and even concrete tile. However, while each material has its own sets of advantages and disadvantages, and each are considered green roofing options to a certain degree, there is another green roofing material that you shouldn’t forget to consider: metal roofs. Believe it or not, despite the fact that they’re more commonly associated with barns and industrial buildings, metal roofs have been considered a green roofing option by the roofing industry for a while now. But why are these considered green options? 1. Metal Roofs Are Energy-Efficient According to roofing industry pros, metal roofs are considered a green roofing option for one obvious reason: they’re energy-efficient when properly installed in your home. This is because if a metal roof is properly installed in your home, and you choose one that has a light color, your roofing system can reflect solar heat, allowing you to reduce your monthly cooling costs by 10% to 25%. Apart from that, if you live in an area where cooling costs are higher than heating costs, and you decide to coat the metal roof with shiny or granular coatings, you can still maximize the roof’s reflective capabilities and improve your monthly energy savings even further. 2. They Can Be Recycled Even now, whenever homeowners decide to have their old residential roofing systems replaced, they often have their roofing contractor dispose of it in a landfill, adding further to the trash that is already there and further harming the environment in the process. This is where metal roofs become a green roofing option as, when the time comes your metal roof has to be replaced, metal recycling outlets will be more than willing to take your old roof in and repurpose it for different use. This prevents your metal roof from winding up in a landfill and harming the environment even further. 3. They Can Be Installed Over Existing Roofing Systems Apart from being recyclable, metal roofing systems are also considered green roofing options because they can be installed over your existing roofing system so long as your local building codes allow it. Again, this helps you avoid tearing off your old roof and disposing of them in a landfill, helping you protect the environment as a result. However, keep in mind that doing so can cause a whole host of problems, such as trapped moisture, so it’s best that you install a vented metal roof with the aid of a professional roofing company. 4. Metal Roofs Are Impervious to Fire, Rot and Pest Damage Alternatively, the roofing industry also considers metal roofs as green roofing options due to the fire, rot and pest resistance that they have. This means that if you live in an area that’s prone to wildfires, and you have a metal roof, there’s a high chance that your metal roof can stay intact even when the wildfire affects your home. Thanks to its pest and rot resistance, on the other hand, your roof can also last longer before needing a replacement, once again letting you avoid contributing to landfills that can harm the environment. 5. They’re Incredibly Durable and Long Lasting Finally, roof repair and replacement experts also say that the roofing industry considers metal roofs as green roofing options for the sole fact that they’re incredibly durable. Believe it or not, there’s hardly anything that can actually threaten a metal roof that’s properly installed, and, with the proper maintenance, this same durability allows a metal roofing system to last longer compared to your average roofing material. This lets you avoid having to replace your roof immediately, reducing the amount of trash that you contribute to your local landfill. How to Find the Best Metal Roofing Contractor for Your Project Replacing your old roof with a new metal roofing system is a complicated home improvement project that homeowners should never attempt to do on their own. Instead, you should make it a point to find the best metal roofing contractor to get the job done. Thankfully, there are plenty of ways you can accomplish this. For instance, you can always ask for trusted referrals from a friend, neighbor or family member who recently had a metal roof installed. If this isn’t an option, on the other hand, you can always reach out to the metal roof manufacturer or roofing organizations and associations for any suggestions and recommendations. On the other hand, if you want to find a metal roofing contractor on your own, you’re always more than free to look for one on the Internet. If you opt for this option, you can always do a quick Google search or visit websites such as Angie’s List® or the Better Business Bureau to find a contractor that specializes in installing metal roofing systems. Once you’ve picked a few companies, check the reviews of previous clients to see if they have any history of unresolved complaints. After you’ve narrowed down your options even further, you can now meet with your potential contractors to interview them, discuss terms and receive estimates from them. After you’ve received the estimates, pick one that agrees with your budget the most so you can finally have your new metal roofing system installed. Looking for someone who can perform an emergency roof repair project for your home? Look no further than the experts of Total Roof Services Corp. to get the job done. With a decade’s worth of experience in the roofing industry, we are committed to giving homeowners like you only the best when it comes to products and customer service. Give us a call at (407) 495-4151
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