What Does a Commercial Roofing Contractor Do?

A commercial roofing contractor is responsible for installing and repairing roofs on commercial buildings. They work with roofing materials, including asphalt shingles, metal, and tile. Commercial roofing contractors also install gutters, downspouts, and other drainage systems. In some cases, they may also be responsible for the maintenance and repair of these systems.

Commercial roofing is a type of roofing that is installed on commercial and industrial buildings. This type of roofing differs from residential roofing in several ways, including the materials used, the installation process, and the maintenance requirements. Therefore, when considering a new roof for your commercial or industrial building, it is essential to understand the basics of commercial roofing before deciding.

Best Roofing Types for Commercial Buildings

There are four main types of commercial roofing: built-up roofs, metal roofs, single-ply roofs, and spray foam roofs. Every kind of roof has unique benefits and drawbacks that should be considered before deciding.

Built-Up Roofs: Built-up roofs (also called BURs) are one of the most common types of commercial roofs. They are made up of multiple layers of asphalt and gravel held together with tar or adhesive. Built-up roofs are durable and can last for 20 years or more with proper maintenance. However, one downside of built-up roofs is that they can be heavy, putting extra stress on your building’s structure.

Metal Roofs: Metal roofs are becoming increasingly popular for commercial buildings because they offer several advantages over other roofs. Metal roofs are durable and can last 50 years or more with proper maintenance. They are also fire-resistant and reflect heat, which can help keep your building cooler in the summer months.

Single-Ply Roof Systems: Single-ply is formed from a single layer of membrane material that is popular because it is lightweight and to work with. Single-ply roofs are available in Thermoplastic Olefin (TPO), Ethylene Propylene Diene Monomer (EPDM), PVC, and others. Single-ply membranes can last for 20 years or more if properly maintained.

Spray Foam Roofs: Spray foam roofs are made by spraying polyurethane foam onto your existing roof surface. The foam hardens, forming a continuous barrier that protects your roof against leaks. Spray foam rooftops offer superior protection against wind, water, and fire. Still, they can be more expensive than other roofing systems.

 

 

Benefits of a Commercial Roofing System

A commercial roofing system offers several benefits to business owners, including:

• Energy efficiency
• Improved durability
• Enhanced curb appeal

A well-designed and installed roof can also help reduce a business’s monthly operating costs.

Common Types of Commercial Roofing

There are four main types of commercial roofing systems: flat roofs, pitched roofs, membrane roofs, and metal roofs. Each roof has its benefits and drawbacks, so choosing the right one for your commercial building is essential.

• Flat roofs: Flat roofs are the most common type of commercial roofing. They are easy to construct and maintain and can be adapted to any climate. However, flat roofs are less durable than pitched or membrane roofs, which can leak if not properly maintained.
• Pitched roofs: Pitched roofs are more durable than flat roofs and can withstand heavy winds and snowstorms. However, pitched roofs are more challenging to construct and maintain and expensive.
• Membrane roofs: Membrane roofs are made of a waterproof material that is sealed around the roof’s edges. Membrane roofs are very durable and can last for decades with proper maintenance. However, they can be expensive to install and are only suitable for some climates.
• Metal roofs: Metal roofs are durable and can last for decades with proper maintenance. Metal rooftops have a high resistance to fire, wind, hail, and other extreme weather conditions; however, they can be expensive to install

The Cost of Commercial Roofing

The cost of commercial roofing can vary depending on the size and type of roof and the materials used. For example, a metal roof will be more expensive than an asphalt shingle roof. Still, it will also last longer and require less maintenance.

Commercial roofs are often more complex than residential ones, with multiple levels and different ventilation and drainage systems.

Many factors affect the cost of a commercial roof, including the following:

• The size of the roof
• The pitch of the roof
• The type of material used.
• The complexity of the roof design
• The climate in which the building is located
• The ease of access to the roof (for example, if it is located on the top floor of a high-rise building)

The Process of Commercial Roofing:

Commercial roofing is a process that involves the installation of a roof on a commercial building. This type of roofing differs from residential roofing because it is designed to withstand the elements and the wear and tear of commercial activity. There are many types of commercial roofing, but the most common are flat and metal roofs.

The Maintenance of Commercial Roofing

Like any roofing system, commercial roofing requires proper maintenance to function correctly and last as long as possible. A commercial roof is a considerable investment for a business, so it is essential to do everything possible to protect that investment. 

A few things need to be done to maintain a commercial roof:

• The roof should be inspected regularly, at least once a year. This will allow any problems to be caught early and repaired before they become more significant.
• The gutters and drains must be clear of debris so water can properly flow off the roof. If water is allowed to pool on the roof, it can lead to leaks and other damage.
• Any trees or shrubs near the building must be trimmed back, so they do not damage the roof. Overhanging branches can cause scratches or punctures in the roofing material, leading to leaks.
• If there are any cracks or holes in the roof, they need to be repaired as soon as possible. Allowing them to stay open will make them more extensive and expensive to fix.
• The flashing around skylights and vents must be checked regularly and repaired if necessary.

Flashing is what keeps water from seeping into these areas and causing damage. By following these roofing tips, you can extend the life of your commercial roof and avoid paying for costly repairs down the road.

 

The Warranty of Commercial Roofing

Warranties for commercial roofing systems can vary significantly in coverage lengths and scope of coverage. When evaluating warranty coverage, it is essential to look at the “fine print” to see precisely what is and is not covered. 

Generally, more extensive warranty coverage will be available from the roofing manufacturer than from the roofing contractor. Some contractors may offer their warranty on top of the manufacturer’s warranties, so be sure to ask about this when obtaining bids for your project. 

One type of warranty that is becoming increasingly common is the “non-prorated” warranty. This type of warranty does not decrease in value over time, as most contracts do. For example, a five-year non-prorated warranty will provide the same level of coverage for the entire five years, regardless of when during those five years a problem might occur. 

Non-prorated warranties are usually more expensive than standard warranties, but they provide greater peace of mind for the buyer. As with any product or service, it is essential to do homework before purchasing a commercial roofing system. Be sure to compare the cost and coverage of different warranties before making a final decision.

The Advantages of Commercial Roofing

Commercial roofing generally has two main types – flat roofs and pitched roofs. Both types have advantages and disadvantages, so choosing the right one for your business is essential. Flat roofs are cheaper to install and easier to maintain. Still, they are not as durable as pitched roofs and can leak if not properly maintained. 

Pitched roofs are more expensive to install but will last longer and are less likely to leak. They can also be more aesthetically pleasing, which may be necessary for some businesses.

The Disadvantages of Commercial Roofing

Commercial roofing can have several disadvantages, depending on the type of roofing system you choose. For example, asphalt shingles are less durable than metal or slate and more susceptible to fire. 

Tile roofs can be very heavy, requiring special reinforcement in some structures. And metal roofs can be noisy during rainstorms or when hail hits them.

Commercial Roofing Services: Roof Inspection, Roof Repair, Roof Replacement, and Roofing Installation

Commercial roofing is the process of installing a roof on a commercial building. This includes office buildings and warehouses, shopping centers, and hospitals. The type of roof that is installed will depend on the specific needs of the building, such as the climate, the location, and the type of structure. There are many types of commercial roofing, including flat roofs, pitched roofs, metal roofs, and asphalt shingles. It depends on the roofing company or the roofer who does the roof replacement and what they specialize in.