What is the Best Commercial Roofing Material?

There are many factors to consider when choosing a roofing material, including your building or home type, local climate, expected lifespan of the roof and if you need a roofing warranty, etc. All this can be a lot to wrap your head around. Some roofing materials have shorter life spans than expected, and the leaks accompanying extended periods of rain and wind wreak havoc on your property.

The best commercial roofing material comes with a warranty and a strong reputation for quality. Get an expert opinion on the best commercial roofing material from Tried and True Roofing. Read on to learn more about the best commercial roofing materials available today.

PVC

PVC is a durable, long-lasting material that can withstand high winds and heavy snow loads. It is resistant to water damage and moisture, so it will not deteriorate in rainy or humid climates. The material is also non-combustible and will not catch fire or melt under extreme heat conditions.

PVC is made of polyvinyl chloride, which is a synthetic polymer that does not require any special maintenance. PVC roofs are much easier to maintain than roofing materials like asphalt shingles or tiles.

If you want a roof that won’t crack or split, go for a thick PVC. However, PVC  will crack in the cold; for this reason, those who reside in colder climates should invest in reinforced PVC membranes. It will lessen the likelihood that the whole roof may collapse.

Read to Know: How Roofing Underlayment Helps Protect Your Home?

EPDM

This type of rubber contains ethylene propylene diene monomer or EPDM. It’s a highly durable material, making it ideal for flat roofs that require long-term use and durability.

The material’s flexibility makes it easy to install on almost any roofing system, including radiant barriers and sloped roofs. The material can also be easily repaired in case of damage or wear. 

EPDM is highly durable and lasts longer( 50 years) than other materials like TPO or PVC. It can withstand high temperatures without cracking or peeling away from its substrate. Also, EPDM roofs are low-maintenance and require less energy to keep clean than other types of roofs (like asphalt shingles). You’ll also save money on repairs because your roof won’t need as much attention as others!

However, its black color absorbs UV rays and can lead to premature aging of the roofing material.

Metal Roofing

Metal roofing is a great choice for commercial buildings because it is durable, low-maintenance, energy-efficient, and easy to repair.

Metal roofs are durable; they are made from steel or aluminum. It can last 40-60 years without needing repairs or replacements. Unlike other roofing materials, such as shingles or asphalt tiles, metal roofs do not need to be painted over time because they come in different colors and finishes. It means you don’t have to worry about painting the roof every few years or replacing it.

Metal roofs are also energy efficient because they reflect heat into the atmosphere rather than absorbing it, as most other materials do. It means they keep your building cooler on hot days by reflecting sunlight instead of absorbing it as traditional materials do.

Finally, metal roofs are easy to repair. However, it’s prone to corrosion. Corrosion occurs when the metal is exposed to air, water, and other elements. Installing a protective coating is the best way to protect your metal roof from corrosion.

Also, Read: How Do I Choose the Best Roofing Company in My Local Area? & 15 Tips for Choosing the Best Roofing Company

Built-Up Roofing (BUR)

BUR has two layers of tar and gravel built on top of one another. This material is strong and durable and can withstand extreme weather conditions. It is also waterproof, so it will not leak or break down in the rain. 

It can withstand the weight of foot traffic gravel used in a BUR system’s finishing process, making it extremely difficult to slip, especially in extreme conditions.

However, it has some drawbacks: it can be challenging to identify leakage and its short lifespan means you’ll need to replace it eventually. Also, installing a BUR roof takes a long time and a lot of workforces. Hot bitumen will have dangerous vapors during installation.

TPO

TPO (thermoplastic polyolefin) is a commercial roofing material resistant to mold and dirt build-up, making it an excellent choice for locations with high humidity or flooding. TPO also lowers energy bills by keeping the building cool during the summer and warmer during the winter. It is durable and flexible, making it easy to install on almost any structure.

However, TPO gets soft when exposed to excess heat. It means that a spot with a lot of heat could cause cracks or busted seams in your roofing material.

Consider many variables when choosing the best commercial roofing material. Some of these variables depend on your budget and what you need from the product. Others depend on the personal taste of the individual considering the material.

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