Unlike residential roofs, commercial roofs should be more durable. Specifically, they should be capable of supporting heavier loads and handling harsh weather conditions. Choosing the most suitable commercial roof for your property can be the difference between long-term reliability and frequent (and pricey) repairs, so it’s important to be mindful when making a decision. As a commercial roofing contractor in Oklahoma City, Roof Pro Local is here to provide you with the best roofing solutions for large-scale commercial buildings! So, if you own commercial properties and you’re looking to install a new roof or replace your existing roof, we’ve got you covered!
Types of Commercial Roofing Systems for Large-Scale Buildings
1. Flat Roofs
Flat roofing systems are a cost-effective option for building owners. This type of roofing system suits large-scale commercial structures because the installation process and maintenance are relatively cheaper and easier compared to other types of roofing. Flat roofing systems are particularly popular among commercial properties because they cover large areas (e.g. large warehouses, shopping malls, and convention centers) efficiently.
Unlike low-slope commercial roofs, flat roofing makes installing and accessing equipment like HVAC systems easier. Flat roofing also gives your commercial building extra space, a flexibility you can easily utilize to further improve your business. With high-quality roofing materials and continued regular maintenance, you can expect your flat roofing to withstand temperature fluctuations and extreme weather, such as strong winds, heavy rain, and hail.
Here are some of the common types of flat roofing systems:
Built-Up Roofing (BUR)
Built-up roofing (BUR) is characterized by multiple layers of materials like bitumen (tar or asphalt) alternating with reinforcing fabrics like fiberglass. These layers are then covered by mineral coating or gravel. As a result, you get a durable and thick surface that can withstand UV exposure, harsh weather, and general wear and tear, which can help you avoid repair costs over time.
Single-Ply Membranes
Single-ply membranes are made from plastic or rubber sheets like TPO (Thermoplastic Olefin), PVC (Polyvinyl Chloride), or EPDM (Ethylene Propylene Diene Monomer). These materials are installed in a single layer on the roof, hence the name. A single-ply membrane is a great choice for a large-scale commercial property because it’s incredibly lightweight and resistant to chemical exposure, UV rays, and weathering.
When it comes to installation, the entire process is quite simple, making it easy to quickly cover large surfaces. This roofing material comes in large sheets and has fewer seams, meaning there’s a lower risk of water leaks. Additionally, single-ply membranes have reflective options that can reduce heat absorption and potentially lower cooling costs.
Modified Bitumen
Modified bitumen is similar to BUR, except the material has been enhanced with plastic or rubber. As a result, modified bitumen is more flexible and even more durable than BUR. It can also expand and contract with fluctuating temperatures (helping prevent cracks) and is resistant to heavy foot traffic, which is an important quality for a commercial roof. Finally, there are many ways to install modified bitumen (self-adhered, torched-down, or cold-applied), giving building owners the option to choose the best process that fits their needs and circumstances.
2. Metal Roofs
Metal roofing systems are lightweight materials made from aluminum, steel, or copper. These roofs are a long-lasting roofing solution with exceptional resistance to pests, fire, and harsh weather like high winds, heavy rain, and snow. Aside from that, metal roofs are famous for reflecting sunlight which leads to reduced heat retention. This means your cooling system doesn’t have to work hard to regulate indoor temperatures, especially in hotter regions. Over time, you can expect less frequent roof repair and roof replacement services due to their strength and long lifespan.
3. Solar Roofs
Solar roofs involve the installation of solar panels directly on a commercial roof. These solar panels absorb energy from the sun and convert it into usable power, leading to lower energy costs (or none at all) over time. This feature is especially beneficial for large-scale commercial buildings like large warehouses with high energy consumption. While solar roofs are on the more expensive side, their energy efficiency makes them a worthy investment. Plus, solar roofs promote environmental sustainability and lower the carbon footprint of buildings.
4. Green Roofs
Green roofs are another environmentally friendly and energy-efficient option for a commercial roof. This roofing system involves adding various plants and grass to your waterproofed roof. The plants on your roof aren’t just eye-catching, they’re also incredibly helpful when it comes to insulating the building, which makes it energy efficient. Additionally, green roofs are great at absorbing rainwater and contribute to improving your building’s air quality, especially in heavily populated urban areas.
How to Choose the Best Commercial Roofing System for Your Property
Type of Building
Choosing the right commercial roofing depends on what type of commercial property you have and how you intend to use it. For example, if you’re looking for roofing solutions for your warehouse, you’ll probably need a roof that can handle heavy equipment and resist regular wear and tear (such as flat roofs or metal roofs). Meanwhile, a commercial building like an office can benefit from a roofing system that looks appealing and has energy-efficient features.
Local Climate
Picking a new roof means considering your local climate. For instance, if you live in a hotter area, a reflective roofing material like TPO can help bounce sunlight and heat away, leaving your building cooler. In contrast, buildings in colder regions can benefit from sturdy options like modified bitumen which can handle snow well. You can consult your trusted roofing contractor for specific advice on the best type of commercial roofing for your local climate.
Roofing Material Quality
You want the best materials in the market for your commercial roofing system. To ensure your roof lasts long, you have to make sure they’re up to industry standards and match the building’s structural integrity. For example, a high-quality metal roof will be rust- and damage-resistant, while single-ply membranes like TPO or PVC offer resistance to UV rays and chemicals.
Maintenance Requirements
Some roofs require more maintenance than others, so you should be aware of a roofing system’s upkeep requirements before installing it. If you’re looking for low-maintenance roofs, you can go for metal roofs and single-ply membranes. Meanwhile, a built-up roofing (BUR) system may require regular inspections.
Roofing Installation Quality
It’s essential to choose a reliable commercial roofing contractor or commercial roofing company. It doesn’t matter how high-quality your roofing materials are—if the installation is flawed, your roofing won’t last and can lead to various issues that will require expensive repairs. So, it’s best to get the best professionals on the job from the get-go.
Call Roof Pro Local for Commercial Roofing Services in Oklahoma City
Among countless local commercial roofing companies, Roof Pro Local stands out as the top provider of commercial roofing services in Oklahoma City. We’re a fully licensed roofing company providing top-quality installations and the most reliable roofing solutions in the industry.
When it comes to commercial roofing, Oklahoma City can rely on our efficient roofing process to get any roofing problem sorted out as soon as possible. Roof maintenance, re-roofing services, roof replacement, roof repair—whatever it is, we’ve got you covered!
Need a free estimate? Contact us today to get started!
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