The choice of roofing materials is an integral component of any building and can be made out of various different materials to suit the needs of each building. Roofs serve an important function and should always be taken into consideration when designing a building as it protects your business and the building structure. Roofing material offers many advantages but there are also disadvantages to take into account, such as budget, roofs durability, and the environment. Roofing for industrial buildings comes in many shapes and sizes; from metal roofing to PVC roofing or even TPO roofing. It’s worth exploring the benefits and drawbacks of each type before making your final decision!
It is important to note that commercial roofing systems do have different criteria than those of residential roofing. Commercial buildings and a commercial roofing project will often have a much larger surface area to cover, for this a traditional pitched roof is not as practical and a flat roof is used. If you were to use a traditional residential roofing material such as asphalt shingles then you would have major issues and leaks. Choosing the right roofing system is key!
Table of Contents
Roofing for Industrial Buildings
When choosing a commercial roofing material and the best roofing for industrial buildings, there is no simple black or white answer. For commercial roofs, there are a range of factors that play an important role and you need to make sure you take into account what you need the roof to do, local climate, budget constraints, and various others that all lead to the best industrial roofing for you.
Which Roofing System to Choose?
In the following sections, I will go over various pros and cons of each of the available roofing types. This will allow you a general overview of each and help you make your decision with the direction you would like to take and find the best roofing for industrial buildings.
Which Roofing Materials to Use?
Polyvinyl Chloride (PVC) Roofing
As it is installed on flat roofs it is essential that it remains in good condition otherwise leaks may appear from pooling water. Polyvinyl Chloride Roofing is not cheap to install and needs to be done by professionals, the longevity, ease of maintenance, and track record make it a popular choice for industrial buildings.
Metal Roofing
Metal Roofing is an exterior architectural surface that has many advantages over other types of roofs for industrial buildings. It’s waterproof, fireproof, and dustproof as well as durable and long-lasting. Metal Roofing can be made out of both aluminum and steel which are the most popular materials used. When selecting metal roofing for industrial buildings, you’ll want to make sure it has a finish that doesn’t corrode over time and will last for decades.
This roof system is good for low slope roofs but is not suitable for a completely flat roof as you will need a slope of more than 2 inches to ensure drainage. The metal roof installation process requires a professional and is also known for its ability to last up to 70 years with the correct maintenance and care which makes it the most durable type of roofing available. A metal roof is also energy efficient if created using recycled materials and can then be again recycled after its usable lifespan is over.
Metal roofing is generally reliable but can develop leaks on the edges if not correctly sealed or installed, it can also expand and contract with local weather conditions so it is important to have it inspected at intervals to ensure longevity and overall condition for the long-term.
Metal roofing is a great option whether you are looking to change an existing roof on a commercial property, you can get a quote for your roofing project from Kimick Roofing Solutions.
Thermoplastic Polyolefin (TPO) Roofing
Thermoplastic polyolefin roofing is a type of single-ply commercial roofing that is installed with a hot-applied sealant and is lightweight. It is resistant to many weather conditions and holds up well during hailstorms and winds. TPO Roofing has the added benefit of being mold and bacterial proof which makes it a popular choice in humid climates. They are also inexpensive and relatively easy to install which is why they are becoming an ever increasingly popular roofing option.
Some downsides to TPO Roofing are that the lifespan of this type of roofing system is also low when compared to other types available for industrial buildings and it will need to be replaced after about 10 – 20 years. If you have the budget for something longer last then it is recommended in order to avoid a short-term roof replacement.
Modified Bitumen Roofing
Modified bitumen Roofing is made of tar and an asphalt membrane. It has many advantages over some other types of Roofing for industrial buildings. A Modified Bitumen Roof is waterproof, fireproof, and light-resistant. It’s durable and reliable. This type of Roofing also doesn’t need any maintenance on average after it’s installed; however, you will need to replace or repair it when there are signs of wear and tear.
The downside to modified bitumen Roofing is that it has a relatively short lifespan before needing to be replaced – about 10 to 20 years which means pressure might need to be put on your budget. Modified Bitumen roofing can also be susceptible to cracking or bubbling which will need attention and care in order to resolve.
Round up of Roofing Systems for Industrial Buildings
When choosing the best roofing for industrial buildings you need to take into account your personal/business criteria, being able to match and relate these to your needs is an important step forwards in being able to choose the appropriate roofing.
Many building owners will consider doing it DIY in order to save costs but whichever roof you choose it is important to work with a professional roofing contractor to ensure that the full lifespan of the roof is realized. Some things can be done DIY but a commercial roof is an intense project that requires skilled professionals in the industry.
