4 Choices for Commercial Roofing Materials

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4 Choices for Commercial Roofing Materials

Building a commercial roof is a big undertaking, but before your company hires a roofing contractor to get the job done, it’s important to know what options are available for commercial roofing materials. Not all commercial roofing is the same, and choosing the best one for your building and your climate can ensure that you get the roof that fits your budget and will last as long as possible. Here’s a brief overview of the most common commercial roofing materials.

TPO

TPO, which stands for thermoplastic polyolefin, has been around since the late 1980s, and since that time it has become one of the most popular roofing materials available for commercial buildings. In the mid-1990s they replaced the existing non-reinforced membranes with fabric-reinforced sheets and it took off in popularity. There are several reasons why so many building managers choose this material, including:

  • High durability
  • Low-temperature flexibility
  • Tolerance for high temperatures
  • Resistant to UV damage
  • Resistant to chemicals and ozone
  • Long lifespan of 20 years or more
  • Exceptional resistance to punctures
  • Fire and wind resistant

EPDM

EPDM roofing is another material that offers durability and long-lasting protection as part of your commercial roofing. It stands for ethyl propylene diene monomer, and for four decades has been a popular choice because it can last so long (up to 30 years or more with proper installation and maintenance). It’s also one of the most affordable options for commercial roofing, and can help reduce the carbon footprint of your building while saving you money on your energy bills. It is great for Utah’s climate because it can withstand temperature extremes, including freezing temperatures, hail and high winds, and damage from UV rays. Since it comes in wide sheets for installation—up to 50 feet wide—there are fewer seams and less chance of developing leaks and other damage (since the seams are the weakest point of a commercial roof).

Modified Bitumen

When you add modifiers to standard roofing asphalt and reinforce it with fiberglass or polyester fiber matting, you get what is called a “modified bitumen” roof. The most common versions are styrene-butadiene-styrene (SBS) or attactic polypropylene (APP), offering two-ply protection with overlapping installation to make them very durable and resistant to common commercial roofing problems such as leaks and weather damage. Modified bitumen is also easy to install and repair, and is flexible to expand and contract with changing outdoor temperatures.

Metal

Metal has also become a great choice for many commercial buildings. It might not work for all buildings, but those who are looking for a stylish option that is also energy efficient, designed to last for 50 or more years, and can be customized to match the look and architectural style of your building, metal is a great choice. Its exceptional resistance to fire, wind, UV damage, and other weather conditions also help boost its long-term value.

To find out more about commercial roofing options and see which might be the best choice for your building, call Collins Roofing today.