Commercial buildings can be covered in different roofing types. You can choose from TPO, EPDM, Polyvinyl chloride (PVC), and metal. You can also use fabric roofing systems. However, you should choose the right type of roofing for your building based on your needs.
TPO
As a single-ply membrane, TPO is an excellent choice for commercial buildings. The material is highly reflective and has good fire resistance. It is also flexible, so it can deal with structural changes better than other materials. It is also easy to repair, so the cost of repairs is low, and a professional can complete the job quickly and efficiently.
It is the most widely used single-ply roofing membrane, and its sales are increasing at a double-digit rate. This is in part due to its low up-front cost. It is also highly recyclable, which makes it environmentally friendly.
EPDM
Choosing a suitable roofing material for a commercial building can take time and effort. Fortunately, EPDM roofing is an excellent choice for a variety of applications. This material is highly flexible and stretches with the building to create a seamless roof. This means it won’t leak or peel off in the face of harsh winds. Another advantage of EPDM is that it can be made fire-resistant by adding a fire-retardant layer.
When installing EPDM roofing, you must make sure to check the quality of the seams. A damaged seam can allow water to enter the roofing assembly and saturate the insulation layer. If you notice a seam separating from the EPDM material, you can apply an industrial-grade roofing sealant to prevent water from entering. Alternatively, you can opt for a roof patch, which involves applying small pieces of EPDM material to a damaged part of the roof.
Polyvinyl Chloride
PVC, or polyvinyl chloride, is a type of flat roof material that is incredibly durable and water resistant. PVC roofs are commonly used in commercial buildings. These roofs are also highly energy efficient and environmentally friendly. In fact, PVC is one of the most widely used roofing materials in the world.
Unlike other roofing materials, polyvinyl chloride roofs are also fire-resistant. This is due to the chlorine element that is added to PVC. This makes the roof membrane impermeable to fire, and it reduces the risk of fire spreading through the roof membrane.
Metal Roofing
Metal roofing has been around since the 1700s and is a very capable roofing material for commercial buildings. It can withstand harsh weather conditions, have a Class A fire rating, and last 50 years or more. Additionally, it is recyclable and available in various shapes and colors.
Commercial metal roofing materials include steel and aluminum. Often, steel panels are galvanized or galvalume. Some are coated in color, while others are left to rust to give a more aged look. Other metals commonly used for metal roofing include zinc and copper.
