Choosing the right roofing style for your commercial building is critical for its durability, energy efficiency, and overall appearance, which all contribute to your business’s success. Our roofing experts at TSpark Enterprises specialize in roofing and are here to answer your questions regarding the various systems we install. Here are the pros and cons of some commercial roofing styles to guide your decision:
Built-Up Roofing (BUR)
A built-up roof (BUR) is a roofing system comprising multiple layers of materials applied over a roof deck and insulation. Numerous layers of asphalt get applied between ply sheets overhead. BURs are often used on flat or low-slope roofs and are popular because they are durable, easy to apply, and effective in diverse climates. The pros of this type of roofing include its durability because of its multiple layers and ability to prevent water leaks. It’s also cost-effective and protective against UV damage; however, it can be time-consuming and heavy to install due to the layers. The installation process can also emit strong odors.
Modified Bitumen (Mod-Bit) Roofing
Modified bitumen roofing is a cost-effective, flexible, and durable system often used on commercial properties with flat or low-slope roofs. It comprises multiple layers of asphalt, polymerized rubber or plastic, and fiberglass or polyester fabric mats that are waterproof and weather-resistant. Modified bitumen is often considered the progressive relative of BURs. Pros of mod-bit roofing include its flexibility with temperature fluctuations, durability from polymer reinforcement, energy efficiency from reflective surfaces, and ease of repair and maintenance. The downside is that mod-bit roofs are more expensive than traditional BUR systems and are challenging to install—but luckily, our professional roofers are experts, so fear not!
Thermoplastic Roofing
Thermoplastic membrane roofing is a single-ply roofing material made from a synthetic substance that softens when heated and hardens when cooled. This system is energy efficient, resistant to chemicals, grease, and punctures, can accommodate building movement and settling, and is lightweight and easy to install. The seams in this system can be weak if not properly welded, but you will not have to worry under our watchful eye.
Ethylene Propylene Diene Monomer (EPDM) Roofing
EPDM roofing, an artificial rubber membrane, is frequently utilized on low-slope roofs for both residential and commercial buildings. They are made from ethylene and propylene, derived from oil and natural gas, and cross-linked polymers to improve their strength, durability, and elasticity. EPDM roofs are durable, resistant to UV rays and weathering, flexible in extreme temperatures, quick to install, and one of the more affordable roofing options. However, this type of roof typically only comes in black, which can absorb heat and would not be as ideal in an environment like Florida. The seams are also vulnerable to leaks if not properly sealed, and this roofing system could be more energy efficient if that is important to you.
Metal Roofing
Metal roofing is one of the most popular roofing materials in the United States–for good reason. It boasts an impressive list of benefits and is one of the best roofing materials for durability, longevity, energy efficiency, sustainability, and ROI. While its initial cost may be higher than other options, it pays for itself with its longevity, averaging between 40 and 70 years. Metal roofs can also be noisy from precipitation and experience high expansion and contraction rates, which can be detrimental, but their long-term benefits far outweigh these considerations.
Green Roofing
Green roofs—also known as ‘vegetated roofs’ or ‘living roofs’—are ballasted roofs with a waterproofing membrane, soil, and plants overlying a traditional roof. Well-designed, engineered and maintained green roofs provide multiple environmental, social, economic, and aesthetic benefits. Green roofs effectively decrease the urban heat island effect, enhance air quality, offer excellent insulation to minimize heating and cooling expenses, and effortlessly improve the appearance of the building. Green roofs, however, are costly to maintain and install, require significant structural support due to the weight of soil and vegetation, and require diligent ongoing maintenance to keep vegetation alive.
Spray Polyurethane Foam (SPF) Roofing
Spray polyurethane foam (SPF) roofing is a lightweight, durable, weather-resistant roofing system that’s made from two liquid chemicals, isocyanate and polyol, that are sprayed onto a roof: Spray Polyurethane Foam (SPF) roofing a type of roofing system that involves the application of a high-density foam directly onto the roof surface. This foam expands and solidifies to form a seamless, waterproof barrier with excellent insulation and durability. SPF roofs are energy efficient, durable—especially against wind, hail, and UV rays, and lightweight. They cost more than other roofing options and need routine inspections and maintenance to ensure they last long—but of course, we always appreciate coming out to help!
Asphalt Shingles
Asphalt shingles, or composition shingles, are roofing materials made from a base mat, asphalt, and mineral granules. They are also the most common type of roofing. The base mat can be made from organic material like cellulose fibers or inorganic material like glass fibers. The mat has been thoroughly soaked and is covered with asphalt and mineral granules coated with ceramic. The granules guard the shingles from the sun’s ultraviolet rays, add color, and help protect against fire. Asphalt shingles are low-cost, easy to install, and long-lasting, but they are a lot of work to maintain. It is the most common type of roofing.
Each commercial roofing style has advantages and disadvantages. When choosing the best roofing option for your commercial property, consider your budget, building structure, climate, and long-term maintenance needs. However, the most crucial step is consulting with a professional roofing contractor like TSpark. Our insights and expertise can help you make the best decision for your property. Don’t hesitate to reach out for all your roofing and construction needs in Tallahassee and surrounding areas!
TSpark Enterprises, headquartered in Tallahassee, Florida, offers a wide range of roofing and construction services in the North Florida and South Georgia areas. Visit our website or call (850) 766-1340 to get a free estimate and embark on your construction journey today!