A commercial building needs to be structurally sound, and one of the most important elements of the structure is the roof.

If you own a property and the roof is on the older side, you might be thinking about a replacement. Commercial roof maintenance will help extend the lifespan of your roof, but wear and tear will always take a toll eventually.

It's important to note that you don't have to go with exactly the same type of roof. There are always different options, so it's worth understanding what these are.

In this guide, we'll cover the basics of commercial roofing so you can get an idea of what's involved. Keep reading for more.

What Is Commercial Roofing?

People often think that commercial roofing and residential roofing are essentially the same, but this isn't the case. The materials and installation processes are very different, so when you need commercial roofing repair, maintenance, or installation, make sure you go with a company that specializes in this.

Types of Commercial Roofing Systems

Various types of commercial roofs use different materials. Compared to residential roofs, there are a lot more options. As such, it's important to know what they are so you can make the best choice for your building.

Built-Up Roofing

This is also known as BUR roofing, and is a standard tar and gravel solution. It's made using multiple layers of the material. It works best on low-slope roofs and is a cost-effective solution that still provides good durability.

Metal Roofing

Metal roofing is one of the most popular roofing materials worldwide. There are plenty of types such as stainless steel, copper, tin, and corrugated galvanized steel.

On top of being very strong and durable, metal roofs have excellent fire resistance. They're typically made with protective layers that prevent rusting and protect the metal from exposure to UV rays.

In some cases, metal roofs are the best choice simply for aesthetic purposes. They offer a lot of flexibility in terms of design, style, and color.

Modified Bitumen Roofing

This roofing is made from layers of reinforced roof fabrics and bitumen. It's highly protective and stable and offers a high level of tensile strength. This type of roof is easy to maintain, making it ideal for roofs that get a lot of activity.

Thermoset Roof Membrane

Also known as EPDM roofing, this option is long-lasting, versatile, and easy to maintain. It uses a single-ply rubber material that's easy to install.

EPDM roofs are very resistant to ozone, UV light, solvents, acids, and alcohol. It's very flexible in cold temperatures and is reflective so it can help keep your building cool in the summer to reduce your energy usage.

Thermoplastic or PVC & TPO Roof Membreane

PVC (polyvinyl chloride) and TPO (thermoplastic polyolefin) have several benefits. On top of being lightweight, they're resistant to punctures, UV rays, chemicals, and bacterial growth.

These materials are ideal for buildings that have restaurants, hotels, or other businesses that release oils through their ventilation systems. It's also reflective, so it can help with energy efficiency.

Green Roofing System

In recent years, more businesses have started implementing green roofs. They're a highly sustainable option, and this has become very common.

They're ideal for effective water and drainage management. If you want to make your commercial building more eco-friendly and visually appealing, this is something to consider.

How Long Does a Commercial Roof Last?

Different materials have different lifespans. For example, TPO roofs tend to last about 15 to 20 years, PVC roofs about 20 years, and EPDM can last for around 30 years. The overall lifespan will depend on how well a roof is maintained.

The maintenance required varies by type. When you get a new roof installed, it's a good idea to speak to the commercial roofing company you're working with.

They can help you establish a regular maintenance plan. This will keep it in a good state and reduce the risk of major problems occurring. Without the proper maintenance, a roof will deteriorate and you'll need to replace it sooner.

How to Tell When You Need a New Roof

Through commercial roof inspections, you can determine if there are any issues with your roof that you need to deal with. At a certain point, however, repair and maintenance won't be enough. Some key indicators will show you when you need a new roof.

Musty Odors

Any musty odors are a sign of mold growth. This usually happens when there's trapped moisture, and it can be a health hazard for anyone who uses the building. If the extent of the mold is bad enough, you may need to replace your entire roof.

Sagging

Sagging is an issue that occurs with flat roofs if they're not draining properly. Water can pool on the roof leading to leaks that can compromise various roofing components. You may be able to replace the compromised areas if you notice them soon enough, but sometimes there can be too much damage and a new roof will be needed.

Water Damage

Water damage is bad for any structural components of a building. You may notice water stains or peeling paint on walls and ceilings. If you do, don't wait around.

This will most likely be a leak, and it will only get worse with time. A roof with severe water damage will need to be replaced as soon as possible.

Loose Materials

Roofing materials can loosen over time due to exposure to the elements. Loose materials can result in leaks, poor energy efficiency, and even safety hazards. Proper maintenance will help prevent this, but you may end up needing a new roof.

Professional Commercial Roofing Services

The roof is one of the most important structural elements of your commercial building. You should keep it well maintained, and pay attention to any issues so you know when you need to replace it.

Function Enterprises is a professional commercial roofing company that serves clients in Washington, Baltimore, and VA. Our portfolio and testimonials highlight the quality of the work that we do. Contact us today to book your free consultation.