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Commercial Roofing Materials

Commercial Roofing Systems

Baker Roofing & Construction Inc. are experienced professionals in the field of commercial roofing. Commercial roofing systems most often are very different than residential roofing. The difference mostly lies in the slope or pitch of the roof. Industrial roofs are usually flat (2-10 degree slope), as are many other commercial roofs.

Covering a flat roof requires a different system than a pitched, shingled roof.

Flat roofs exist primarily for appearance and convenience. A flat roof saves space, allowing area for the HVAC systems, etc… On a flat roof, the biggest concern is water. Water will find any access point on a flat roof such as through any inadequate seam, hole, or gap. Therefore, the chief objective on a flat, commercial roof is to create a water-tight barrier. This is where the importance of commercial roofing materials comes in.

Common Commercial Roofing Materials

PVC

This is a single-ply membrane or thermoplastic material. PVC roofs, especially the white ones, are very energy efficient. They are very durable and strong. The seams are heat-welded, and are actually stronger than the material itself. PVC can be installed as fully-adhered system or as a mechanically attached system. The adhered system is more expensive. This is the most popular commercial roofing system.

EPDM

Also known as a rubber roof, EDPM has the advantage of a much lower cost. It does tend to absorb heat when installed as a black roof and, the seams are not quite as strong the PVC. White is more energy efficient. It is an effective commercial roofing material, having a long-life. Another benefit of EDPM is its resistance to fire.

TPO

This is another single-ply commercial roofing material. TPOs gained popularity in the 1990s because of energy efficiency in the lighter colors of white and gray. Black is still an option as well. Many commercial roofers feel it is the best of PVC and EPDM combined. The TPO commercial roofing system is a newer technology, requiring experienced contractors. Baker Roofing has the experience and functional training to install this revolutionary roofing material.

Elastomeric Coatings

These roof coatings offer an effective and affordable solution for commercial roofing problems. It can be used to repair any type of roof leak and can be used at any temperature because it stretches and contracts. Elastomeric Coatings are long-lasting while being resistant to fungi and mildew. Elastomeric Coatings can reduce the roof’s top temperature by as much as 90 degrees.

Modified Bitumen

This is a multi-ply roofing material, which is a benefit over the others. TPO, EDPM and TPO roofing systems are single-ply and can rip. Modified Bitumen offers a 2-layer commercial roofing system. Layer 1 is a base that is mechanically attached to the roof deck with plates and screws. The final layer is a granule top surface that is attractive and provides energy efficiency. This too is often considered a more difficult roof to install, but Baker Roofing & Construction Inc. has the trained technicians needed to install this roofing system.

Not all commercial roofs are flat though. When a commercial roof’s pitch has more slope, the options for materials do change. Options such as shingles, tile, and slate become commercial roofing options. Standing Seam Metal Roofs and Stone Coated Steel are very often used in commercial roofing systems when a roof has slope. You can read more about these roofing materials on our residential roofing materials page.

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How to Choose the Best Material for a Commercial Roof

If your commercial building is in need of a new roof, your best option is to speak with an expert at Baker Roofing & Construction Inc. We are well trained and knowledgeable in all types of commercial roofing systems. We offer superior workmanship which ensures confidence in your commercial roofing project.