Local roofs are subject to a real pallet of climate challenges. Our climate is constantly changing from scorching sun to torrential rains, sometimes adding squall winds. Mistakes in choosing a roof inevitably lead to regular leaks, short circuits in the electrical wiring and, of course, dissatisfaction of tenants.
At Rooftop Tech Inc., we always emphasize the importance of cooling the building. After all, if the roofing poorly reflects the sunrays, the interior becomes like a furnace, and electricity bills for air conditioning increase greatly.
The variety of roofing systems on the modern market
Today, the market offers a huge variety of roofing systems: PVC, TPO, EDPM, modified bitumen, BUR, classic asphalt shingles, metal. The list is truly impressive.
The question “What is the best material for a commercial roof?” comes up regularly. Our team is of the opinion that there is no absolute winner that suits everyone equally. The roof for a warehouse hangar and for a restaurant by the ocean will have different requirements. That is why it is worth considering several of the most common options.
Single-layer material – TPO, PVC and EDPM
One of the popular solutions in the commercial property segment is synthetic membranes – TPO, PVC and EDPM. All of them are referred to as “single-layer systems”, but each has its own distinctive features. The technology of single-layer roll materials is valued for its ease of installation, flexible mounting options and relatively low weight.
TPO: flexibility and energy efficiency
This polymer (based on ethylene-propylene-diene and polypropylene) is recommended for its ability to reflect sunlight, reducing the load on the cooling system. For the Miami’s hot climate, TPO is a winning solution. Roofing made from this material usually possesses:
- Long service life (15-20 years);
- Resistance to dirt, mold and UV-radiation;
- Lightness.
Cheap versions of TPO sometimes lose elasticity in extreme heat or if the seams are not welded properly. It is preferable to use products from time-tested brands and trust only qualified professionals with the installation.
PVC: resistance to chemicals and wind
It has been used in the industrial sector for a long time due to its high resistance to fat, oil and chemically-rich environments. It is a good choice for restaurants, factories and other facilities where there is a high probability of contact with aggressive substances. PVC sheets are usually connected with hot air (welding), forming continuous seams. By the way, the service life of PVC is up to 20-30 years. Some people do not like the price, which is higher than that of TPO. In addition, not all products are environmentally friendly due to the specifics of production.
EDPM: reliability and affordable price
This is a classic on the commercial membrane market. The material comes in white or black. The main advantages include:
- Elasticity and ability to withstand temperature fluctuations;
- Low cost;
- Service life up to 25 and sometimes 30 years;
- Ease of routine repairs (can be patched).
At the same time, it is important to note that the black color increases the roof’s temperature, which is not always desirable in the warm climate of Florida. In addition, if the building has a low slope, special attention has to be payed to the correct organization of drains.
Commercial facilities often use additional technologies to improve energy efficiency. For example, light membranes that can reflect sunlight are used, or additional insulation – plywood and polystyrene foam boards being laid under the membrane. In Miami, this is especially relevant doe to the features of the climate.
But it is better to coordinate any decision with roofing experts, because there are situational moments: some objects are near salt water, which can accelerate the corrosion of metal. Or the owner cares about the environment and chooses a “greener” roof (with vegetation), but then you will have to consider the weight of the soil, the drainage system and regular watering.
Modified bitumen – the evolution of a classic
This type of roofing layer is made of bitumen supplemented with polymers, which give it improved elasticity and resistance to temperature changes. Typically, such roofing is supplied in rolls (which are sometimes called “new generation roofing felt”), installed either by fusing with a gas torch or with a self-adhesive layer. The multi-layer structure increases strength and reduces the risk of leaks. It is often used on flat or low-sloped roofs. This solution is often chosen for warehouses, office centers and small retail outlets.
Pros of this solution:
- Additional layers increase resistance to weather factors;
- Repair in case of local damage is quite simple.
Among the disadvantages: it is necessary to strictly adhere to the installation technology. Carelessness in flame-fusing is fraught with a short-lived result and can potentially become a fire hazard. In addition, multi-layered installation sometimes increases the overall weight of the roof.
Built-up roofing – a time-tested solution
When talking about the “multi-layered” branch, people often mean BUR, where bitumen-impregnated sheets (usually fiberglass) and hot mastic are laid in layers. This method has been used for many decades and continues to be used in large areas of shopping centers, warehouses and other industrial structures.
The principle here is that each layer provides additional sealing. The “roof pie” can consist of three, four or more layers. Sometimes, gravel is poured on top, creating protection from UV-radiation and mechanical damage.
The advantages of this method include strong wear resistance with proper installation (withstands intense foot traffic, temperature changes, precipitation). With proper planning, a very long service life can be achieved (about 20-30 years). It is also worth noting the resistance of these roofs to punctures and weight loads.
However, this solution has enough conditionals. First, working with hot bitumen requires great caution and experience. Second, due to the impressive weight, it is necessary to be sure that the floors can withstand the load. Finally, if repairs are necessary, it is not easy to detect the leak point in the layered structure, especially if the top layer is made of crushed rock or gravel.
Metal roofing – a bet on longevity
Metal roofing has long been not limited to rusting iron sheets: there is a whole range of materials – aluminum, steel, copper, galvalume. An excellent option “with a standing seam” or “with hidden screws” (prefabricated panel), and both options look modern and stylish.
Metal has many advantages:
- Service life can exceed 40-50 years;
- High reflectivity (especially for aluminum with bright coating), which helps in the hot Miami’s climate;
- Minimal maintenance costs (it is enough to periodically inspect the joints and check the condition of the protective coating).
True, the initial cost of a metal roof can be higher than that of membrane analogues. Plus, special attention is being paid to monitoring the condition of the protective layer, because in coastal areas, “salty” air intensifies the corrosion process. When installing in Miami, where there is a high level of humidity and salinity of the atmosphere, these factors are always taken into account when choosing the alloy and paint.
Asphalt shingles in commercial building
Asphalt (bitumen) shingles can be found not only on houses, but also on commercial or administrative buildings. Improved varieties of shingles have better wind resistance than classic “builder grade” version, and can last 20-30 years. Relatively low cost is noted, and the color palette allows you to choose an option for a demanding design.
But this solution is justified mainly on sloped roofs. If the inclination angle is small or you want to reduce the risk of leaks, shingles are not suitable for everyone. And their service life is usually shorter than that of high quality metal roofing.
The importance of proper installation and maintenance
A high quality sheet or panel is only one part of the success. Incorrectly sealed joints, failure to handle slopes, negligence in the installation of roof drains – all this can reduce the advantages of an excellent material to nothing. At rooftoptech.com, we always start any project with an inspection of the roof or project site to identify the features of the building: are there old layers, do the supporting structures need reinforcement, what additional devices are planned to be placed on the roof (air conditioners, solar panels, antennas).
Often, it is enough to patch a small cut or tighten the fasteners in time to avoid major repairs in the future. This is what service maintenance is for – it is much cheaper than a complete replacement. In addition, many manufacturers provide an extended warranty only on the condition that the owner adheres to the inspection schedule and maintains the roof in good condition.
