The commercial roofing market was valued at $102.4 billion in 2020.
When it comes to roofing, there are so many materials to choose from, that it can get overwhelming. In commercial roofing, it’s a huge financial commitment because of the scope of the buildings. You want to make sure you’re choosing the right material.
Keep reading to learn about the top three best roofing materials for commercial buildings.
1. Metal Roofing
Some of the most common metals used in metal roofing are copper, steel, aluminum, and zinc. This material doesn’t work well for all types of roofs and is much better suited to steeper slopes.
The biggest benefit of this type of roofing material is its durability. Metal is non-porous, which means moss and plant life can’t take root in it. It can also withstand most elements and can keep water out.
The problem is that it’s an expensive roofing material. The cost per sheet of metal is much higher than some other materials. But you can weigh this upfront cost against the long-term maintenance costs, which are cheaper than other materials.
Remember, for commercial buildings, it is always best to hire commercial roofers. They’re pros when it comes to installing a roof, so you know they’ll do it properly.
2. Asphalt Roofing
There are a few types of asphalt roofing, the most popular being built-up roofing (BUR). Other types are Modified Bitumen and hybrid (combination of BUR and Modified Bitumen) roofing systems.
This is one of the most popular roofing options for commercial buildings. It works best for flat or low-sloped roofing. The roofing has layers of asphalt, membranes, and fiberglass, all sealed together to create a strong roof. The different categories have different numbers of layers inside their roofs.
The benefit of the roofing style is that it’s fire resistant, and needs very little maintenance. The roofs are long-lasting because even if one layer receives damage, the other layers can make up for it.
Water pooling causes some roof problems with this material. If the roof doesn’t have good drainage, water can pool and damage the seams of the roof, causing them to pull apart. If you spot this early enough you can patch it, but if not then you’ll end up replacing a roof.
3. Shingle Roofing
Shingles are another popular roofing choice. Shingles are small pieces of material that overlap each other in a pattern. They work for both sloped and flat roofs.
These are a popular choice because of their cost. Shingles are one of the least expensive roofing materials. And the materials are durable too, which means it’s a cheaper option for the long term too.
But if shingles experience harsh weather like hail storms, the asphalt granules can be dislodged from the shingles. This makes them less effective at withstanding other elements, and the damaged shingles will need replacement.
Choose the Best Roofing Materials for Your Commercial Project
There are pros and cons to each of these building materials. The best roofing materials for your commercial project will be determined by your values and needs for the building. If you enjoyed this article, please check out our blog for more content!
