3 Types Of Commercial Roofing Systems
Selecting the right roofing system for your commercial building is essential when it comes to protecting the building's interior against leaks and heat loss.
Many commercial properties are constructed with low-slope roofs. The purpose of these flat roofs is to reduce initial construction costs and create space to accommodate large pieces of HVAC equipment.
Because commercial roofs are usually flat, the types of roofing systems used on them differ from those used in a residential setting. Here are three types of commercial roofs that you may want to consider when it's time to replace your building's existing roofing materials.
1. Built-Up Roofing
One of the oldest types of commercial roofing systems is the built-up system. While built-up roofing is not considered new, it is still used by many commercial contractors.
A built-up roof is essentially constructed on-site by the contractor. Layers of specialized felt or other synthetic fabrics are sealed together using hot tar or asphalt. Once all of the layers have been set, pea gravel is typically spread across the top of a built-up roof to protect it against the elements.
A built-up roof is most effective when the contractor doing the installation has the expertise required to install the system.
2. Modified Bitumen Membrane Roofing
A modified bitumen membrane roof is an improvement on the built-up roof design. Instead of requiring a contractor to complete the construction of all roof layers on-site, modified bitumen membrane roofing comes pre-built in large rolls.
The contractor only has to roll out the materials across the surface of a commercial roof and then use a torch to seal the layered materials to an approved underlayment.
As long as the sealing process is completed correctly, you can rely on a modified bitumen membrane roof to create a watertight seal for your commercial space.
3. Thermoplastic Membrane Roofing
One of the most advanced types of commercial roofing is a thermoplastic membrane.
Thermoplastic membrane roofing differs from others because it doesn't cure on a building's rooftop. Instead, the thin membrane sheets that are applied in sections across the roof soften and flow when they are exposed to heat. This makes it possible for roofing contractors to hot-air weld a thermoplastic membrane roof throughout its entire lifespan.
Most of the thermoplastic membrane materials available are white. White roofing can help reflect the sun's UV rays to lower your commercial heating and cooling costs over time.
Contact a commercial roof replacement service to learn more.
