Picking out a commercial roof for your building shouldn't be too difficult since your choice often depends on whether the roof on your building is flat, low-sloped, or steep-sloped. Still, you'll always have a few options to consider. To make the best choice, think about cost, appearance, and durability. Here are some types of commercial roofs to compare.
Flat Commercial Roofs Often Use Membranes
If your building has a flat roof, your roofer may recommend membrane roofing. These are made of rubber or plastic. The membranes seam together to form a waterproof surface on your roof. Either type of membrane roofing could be a suitable choice, but your roofer will consider the environment around your building, the foot traffic on your roof, and your preferences when choosing the right membrane material for your needs.
Membranes are available in light colors to reflect the sun and dark colors to hold on to heat. They can be fastened directly to the roof or held down with gravel if you want a more attractive appearance for your building.
Low-Sloped Roofs May Use Metal Panels
Low-sloped roofs can use membrane roofing too, but metal is also a good choice, especially if the roof can be seen from the street and you want something more attractive than a membrane roof. Metal is durable roofing that lasts a long time, so it's a good investment.
Metal roofing comes in several solid colors, so a metal commercial roof is an attractive addition to your property. Metal is easy to maintain, and the metal panels are coated to prevent fading and rust.
Besides metal, asphalt shingles and clay tiles might also be suitable for a low-sloped roof as long as the slope of the roof is high enough that rain can drain freely to the gutters on your building. Common residential roofing is suitable for commercial roofs as long as the slope of the building is a good match.
Steep-Sloped Buildings Might Use Asphalt Shingles
Steep-sloped buildings have their own challenges since the roof is so steep that roofing installation and repairs are more difficult. Asphalt shingles are often a good choice for a building with a steep slope, but another good choice is metal roofing panels.
Metal might be beneficial if you think the appearance of a metal roof is more in line with your commercial building. However, asphalt shingles, especially luxury shingles, might have the look you want for a professional building.
Also, metal will probably need fewer repairs, and that means a roofer won't have to climb up on the roof as often as they might with asphalt shingles.
For more information about commercial roofs, contact a local roofer.
