Most commercial roofs are flat or low-sloping, unlike residential roofs which tend to be pitched. Flat roofs are not only easier to install and very affordable but they can often provide valuable space to store equipment. Since flat roofs do come with some downsides, including suffering harsh effects from the elements and requiring more maintenance, it’s important to ensure you choose the right material for your roof. If you’re wondering what are commercial roofs made of, read on.
Since a new roof is such a significant investment for most businesses, it makes sense to consider your options carefully before deciding which system to opt for. Consult with our experienced roofing specialists who will be able to offer you the expert advice that you need. Keep reading to discover the most common materials for commercial roofs in Grimsby.
Single-ply is one of the most common materials for commercial roofs. A single-ply membrane roof consists of sheets of synthetic polymer which are made from either thermoplastics or synthetic rubber. Since we can reheat and remould thermoplastics, they are normally the most popular option for single-ply roofs.
Not only are single-ply roofs incredibly durable, ensuring they will last long into the future, but they’re also eco-friendly when compared with other more traditional roofing materials. There are a few different types of single-ply membranes for commercial roofs. These include:
Polyvinyl Chloride (PVC)
Thermoplastic Olefin (TPO)
Ethylene Propylene Diene Terpolymer (EPDM)
Also known as Reinforced Bituminous Membranes (RBM), built-up felt systems use felts that have very high tensile strengths. Even though they’re incredibly strong they’re also flexible, ensuring they can expand and contract. There are two different construction methods for installing built-up felt roofs – hot and cold.
With the hot method, we use a gas torch to bond the felt to the surface. The cold method either attaches the felt mechanically, or bonds it using hot air and adhesives. Whilst both methods come with benefits, the hot method is usually the better option since it provides a more robust, longstanding solution. The cold method tends to be more common in lightweight projects or where the use of gas torches isn’t advisable.
Built-up felt roofing systems are not only quite impressive in regards to their durability but they’re also fairly inexpensive. Compared to other roofing membranes like PVC, asphalt and rubber, felt roofs tend to be much cheaper to install, maintain and repair should they become damaged.
When our customers ask us “What are commercial roofs made of?”, they rarely expect us to say metal. Metal roofs have become increasingly popular in recent years, especially for commercial buildings. Steel, zinc, aluminium and copper are common options. Not only are metal roofs incredibly hardwearing – withstanding harsh weather conditions including rain, ice and snow – but they also tend to be mildew, rot and fire resistant. Plus, we can install them on roofs with low pitches, unlike tiles and shingles.
Metal roofs are a very eco-friendly option. As well as using recycled metals like steel, the roofs themselves are often recyclable. Metals tend to do a better job at preserving heat too, which means that heating your property will likely cost you less. At the same time, a metal roof can also help to keep a property cool in the hot summer months.
You might assume the downside of metal roofing is its appearance. You may be picturing corrugated metal sheets. However, whilst corrugated metal is still widely used, these days, metal roofing is modern and lightweight, with a large range of colours and profiles to choose from. Some look like traditional roofing tiles whilst still having the benefits of metal roofs.
Liquid applied roofing refers to the process of applying a polyurethane liquid membrane as a roof coating to a new roof or existing roof. The aim is to make the roof waterproof and able to withstand the harshest effects of the elements. With an existing roof, it’s known as a “liquid overlay”. Liquid applied roofing is an extremely versatile solution since it can be applied to either flat, pitched or domed roofing systems, and on a wide range of different materials, including steel and asphalt.
One of the key benefits of liquid applied roofing is that it provides a totally seamless solution. Since we apply it as a continuous coat, there are no areas where water can get underneath. With systems such as single-ply, EPDM and bitumen felt, water can eventually penetrate the roofing and cause damage. Liquid applied roofing provides a long-term, watertight protective layer for your roof.
Now you know the answer to the question “What are commercial roofs made of?”, you may be looking to hire a roofing company in your area. At Raven Roofing and Repairs, we specialise in the installation of commercial roofs in Grimsby, using a range of materials to meet our clients’ needs and budgets. Once we’ve installed your new roof, we’re on hand to carry out regular roof maintenance and repairs, ensuring that it stays looking and functioning its best long into the future. We’re on hand to deal with all your commercial roofing requirements.
If you’re looking for a leading installer of commercial roofs in Grimsby, look no further than Raven Roofing and Repairs. Call us on 01472 565 084 or 01507 640 072 to discuss your roofing needs with one of our friendly team. You can also get in touch by sending us a message via our website and we’ll get back to you as soon as we can. Whether you need more information about different roofing systems we offer or you’d like a quote, we can assist.