The roof on your home bears little resemblance to the roof on your commercial building. Though both are designed with longevity and protection in mind, each has unique features that make it a better choice for its intended function. If you’re considering a commercial roofing replacement, we have answers to your most commonly asked questions.
What Is a Low-Slope Roof?
Many commercial roofs feature a low-slope design. A low-slope roof is one that features a 2:12 ratio or less. That’s to say, it rises two inches up for every 12 inches out. This roof is considered shallow-angle, and it’s unsuitable for some roofing materials, such as shingles. The two types of low-slope roofing materials are modified bitumen and single-ply.
Modified Bitumen
One of the most traditional types of commercial roofing is called modified bitumen. This is an asphalt-based roofing system that’s suitable for flat and low-slope roof designs. This roof is applied in stacked layers that include asphalt sheets. Together, these layers form a waterproof, weather-resistant, and energy-efficient roofing system that is extremely durable. A roof made of modified bitumen may last as long as 25 years.
Single-Ply Commercial Roofing
Single-ply roofing is designed to be installed as a single layer of protection, usually of thermoset (EPDM) or thermoplastic (TPO, PVC, KEE). This type of roofing usually costs less, is highly reflective, and is easier to install. Single-ply roofs are energy-efficient and can often be installed over the existing substrate. They also can last up to 25 years.
What Is a Steep-Slope Roof?
With its sloped surface, the steep-slope design naturally goes with the pull of gravity sending debris and water easily down to the surface making maintenance on these types of roofs minimal. It features a 3:12 ratio or greater and is suitable for roofing materials including asphalt shingle, metal, or tile.
Asphalt shingle
Asphalt shingles are made with fiberglass or felt paper base coated with a waterproof layer of asphalt. They are topped with ceramic-coated granules that come in a variety of colors and are used to protect them from UV rays. The primary kinds of asphalt shingles include:
- 3-tab shingles
- Architectural shingles
Asphalt shingle is considered one of the most affordable roofing materials. It is also one of the easiest materials to install and is low maintenance.
Metal
A metal roof may be constructed from copper, zinc, aluminum, or steel. This type of roofing is lightweight and highly energy-efficient when painted with a cool roof coating. Metal roofing can last up to 70 years. It’s also fire-resistant and stands up well to extremes of weather.
Tile
Tiles may be a good choice for commercial roofing if your building features a moderate- or steep-sloped roof. Tiles are not only attractive, but they’re highly durable. A tiled roof can last upwards of 50 years. Additionally, tiles come in many hues, shapes, and materials, including:
- Clay
- Slate
- Concrete
- Composite
A tiled roof typically costs more and is pricier to install. It also weighs more, which means your contractor may need to add structural supports before installation.
What’s the Best Way to Budget for Commercial Roof Replacement?
The first step in budgeting for a commercial roof replacement is to obtain a reliable quote from a professional roofer. Then remember — roofing that’s very old or that has taken an unfortunate beating over the years may require additional prep work before your new roof can be properly installed. Regardless, Perry Roofing in Gainesville, FL, will be there with you from beginning to end, working to install a commercial roof that’s attractive, energy-efficient, and long-lasting. Contact Perry Roofing to schedule an appointment today