You have a big decision ahead of you if you are in charge of selecting the type of commercial roofing materials to use for your commercial roof replacement. However, it’s important that you know that a roofing expert from Nations Roof will be glad to sit down with your team and provide no shortage of roof material options.

We will first complete an inspection of your entire roof and then provide you with a summary of our findings and recommendations for repair or replacement.

Today we would like to discuss some of those roofing systems and materials. However, please understand that not all commercial roofing environments are the same, and your selection should only be determined on a case-by-case basis.

Types of Roofing Systems for Commercial Buildings

Here are some of the most common commercial roofing materials and their advantages.

Single-ply membranes

single ply roofing material

There are several types of single-ply membranes. They are generally referred to as elastomeric (EPDM or rubber roofs) or thermoplastic (TPO and PVC) systems.

Single-ply roofs offer the following advantages:

  • The easy installation process, flexible, and competitive in price
  • Resistant to harsh weather conditions, UV radiation, and acid rain
  • Wide variety of grades available to choose from depending on the specific needs of the building

TPO roofing

tpo roofing material

TPO membranes are a heat-weldable blend of polypropylene and ethylene-propylene rubber components that can be installed in varied ways. TPO roof sheets are reinforced and contain UV stabilizers, fillers, and flame retarders.

TPO roofs offer the following advantages:

  • Come in a variety of thicknesses
  • Seams are hot-air welded
  • Available in white, gray, and tan

Modified bitumen roof

modified bitumen roofing material

Modified bitumen roofs are common types of commercial roofs. This commercial roofing material is created when a polymer is added to asphalt, extending the temperature limits and increasing its pliability.

Modified bitumen roofing materials

  • Are thicker membranes (160 mils)
  • Offered in multiple plies for redundancy
  • May provide a granular or coated surface to increase reflectivity and energy efficiency of the commercial building

Built-up roofing (BUR)

built up roofing material

Built-up roofs are one of the oldest types of BUR roofing systems The BUR roofing system is a multi-layered system. It includes bitumen, ply sheets, and a gravel surface or a mineral cap sheet.

Advantages of a built-up roof include:

  • Multiple layers provide extra mass and protection
  • Can be combined with a modified bitumen system for durability

Metal roofs

commercial metal roofing material

Metal roofing systems can be one of the longest-lasting solutions for steep slope roofs.

Here are some advantages of using a metal roofing system:

  • Aesthetically pleasing
  • Durable
  • 100% Recyclable

What are the Best Commercial Roof Materials?

Unfortunately, we have only scratched the surface when discussing commercial roofing systems. To learn more, contact the premier commercial roofing contractor in the country – Nations Roof. We will walk you through the decision on the best roof materials for your commercial roof.

Nations Roof offers roof repair and roof replacement. We also work on new construction projects, so you can be assured that your roof is installed properly from the beginning.

Schedule a free roof inspection today by filling out the contact form on our website.

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