The Top 4 Flat Roof Systems for Commercial Roofing Installation

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Commercial property owners look for a roofing system that is durable, weather-resistant and saves energy at the same time. Keeping the long term objective in mind, flat roofs are a viable option. Flat roofs can last up to 50 years depending on the type roofing material and the frequency of inspection and maintenance. Choosing the right flat roof system for your commercial property can be difficult considering the number of options available in the market.

The blog post discusses four widely used flat roof systems in commercial properties. Let’s have a look.

1. Built-Up Roof (BUR)

Built-Up Roofs, also known as “tar and gravel” roofs, are being used in the US for more than a century. The roofs are made of alternating layers of bitumen and reinforced fabrics that serve as excellent insulators. Apart from insulation, BUR systems also offer optimum weather resistance and helps in preventing leakages. The outmost layer of BUR system consists of gravel that adds to the aesthetic appeal. In addition to this, gravel is fire resistance and affordable. The only drawback with BUR systems is their heavy weight, and property owners also need to consider a lot of reinforcements prior installing a BUR. If you are, however, looking for an inexpensive commercial roofing option and desire to save energy bills, you need to consider BURs.

2. Modified Bitumen

Modified bitumen is a single ply roofing system suitable for commercial property owners who want to save on energy bills. The roofing material is rolled on the surface, followed by heating with a blowtorch. Modified bitumen roofs are resistant to temperature variations and water, and durable as a result of the adhesion between aggregate and binders. Modified bitumen are easy to install, less labor intensive and has been in the roofing industry since the 1970s. New variants of modified bitumen are also available in peel and stick model that do not require a blowing torch and reduces the installation time.

3. PVC

Roof leaks are a menace to any commercial property owners and that’s where PVC roofing comes to the rescue. Many people may know about PVC applications in drainage pipes; however, only a few are aware of its application in commercial roofing installation because of its excellent impermeability. As PVC keeps the roof water-tight, the probability of water ponding reduces to a great extent. In addition, PVC roofs are highly durable, reflects sunlight to save energy, easy to install and lasts for more than 15 years.

4. Thermoplastic Polyolefin (TPO)

TPO roofs are quite popular among commercial property owners because of its weather resistance, reflective properties, and installation advantages. TPO roofs are either fully adhered or mechanically attached to the underlying insulation and require little maintenance throughout their lifespan. TPO is now getting synonymous for cool roofs and can last for as long as 35 years with optimum wear and tear resistance from the weather elements.

The Bottom Line...

Whether it is the installation, maintenance or repair, commercial roofing systems are different from residential roofs. You can seek the help of professional roofing contractors to choose the right roofing materials and proper installation. No matter the type of flat roofing system you choose for your commercial project, make sure to get it installed by professional roofing contractors to ensure it lasts for a long time.