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What is the lifespan of commercial roof systems? We would love to give you a quick answer to this question. However, the answer is dependent on quite a few factors. So, here’s some basic information to help determine how long commercial roofs should last.
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Factors that Determine the Lifespan of Commercial Roof Systems
Here are some of the factors that go into predicting a roof’s longevity.
Lifespan by Type of Roofing Materials Used
The roof type and brand of roofing materials play a huge factor in how long a roof lasts. Here are some of the most common systems used for commercial roofs (or “low slope roofs”).
Ethylene propylene diene monomer (EPDM)
EPDM (Ethylene Propylene Diene Monomer) roofing has been known for being remarkably durable and resilient. This roofing solution is made from an industrial-grade synthetic rubber that will expand and contract when temperatures change. The lifespan of a properly installed EPDM roofing system can extend beyond 30 years.
Modified bitumen
The modified bitumen roofing system is a modern version of the built-up roofing system (BUR roofs). The life of this type of system with multi-ply roofing material is between 10 and 20 years.
Metal roof
As long as the proper installation guidelines are followed, metal roofs with adequate slope can last 30 years or more. This is perhaps one of the oldest commercial roofing systems.
TPO Roofs
TPO (thermoplastic polyolefin) roof sheets are a heat-weldable blend of polypropylene and ethylene propylene rubber components. They are polyester reinforced and flexible in colder temperatures. A properly maintained TPO roof may last 20-30 years.
PVC Roofs
PVC (polyvinyl chloride) roof membranes come in various colors, thicknesses, widths, and reinforcements – making them a great choice of commercial roofing materials. The average life expectancy of a PVC roof is up to 30 years.
Of course, there are other types of commercial roofing systems that we did not list. Learn more about the different types by visiting this website.
Installation Process
You may have noticed that the lifespan of various roofing materials often ranges across decades. So why do the roofs on some commercial buildings last longer than others?
Assuming that the right roofing material was selected for the project, another factor that affects the roof’s longevity is the quality of materials and installation. Not all low slope roofing systems are the same – and neither are commercial roofing manufacturers. Select a highly-rated commercial roofing manufacturer for your new roof installation.
Weather Conditions
Of course, weather plays a role in how long the roof of a commercial building will last. Therefore, expected life spans may vary depending on the location of the building.
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Maintenance
How long will a commercial roof last? One determining factor of a commercial roof’s lifetime is how it is maintained. In fact, routine maintenance can increase the life of a commercial roof anywhere from 30% to 100% – according to the National Roofing Contractors Association (NRCA) and American Institute of Plant Engineers Association for Facilities Engineers (AIPE/AFE). You might want to share this data with your commercial building owner or building managers.
Also, a proper maintenance program may be required under the manufacturer’s warranty. Regular maintenance can also reduce injuries and protect the company from expensive shutdowns and equipment damage.
Contact Nations Roof to Learn More About Roofing Maintenance
Are you ready to take the next step to extend the life of your commercial roof? Nations Roof will perform a thorough 21-point inspection to evaluate the health of your commercial roof and create a maintenance plan.
We are commercial roofing experts and have locations all across the country. In addition, Nations Roof has a relationship with all of the leading manufacturers, which means we will find the perfect solution for your unique situation.
Contact us today to speak with one of our local commercial roofing experts.
