Commercial roofing is a specialty that’s a bit different than what is done for houses or other types of residential properties. Commercial roofing contractors will work with the commercial building or property manager to repair issues with a roof, replace a worn-out roof or build a brand new roof on a new commercial property.

There are many choices in the commercial roofing industry.  To begin, there are many types of materials that are commonly used in commercial roofing. Let’s narrow them down to help you choose the one that’s most pertinent to your project.

EPDM Roofing

This type of roof has excellent durability and can be used for a wide range of buildings. It lasts much longer than any of the other options. EPDM roofing is much easier to install, and is easier to maintain and repair than the other types of commercial roofing available today. It involves a single-ply membrane.

Green Roofs

This type of roofing has increased in popularity over the years and is commonly used in big cities. Basically, the roof is covered with vegetation implanted into soil. Beneath it is a waterproof membrane. This reduces the urban island heat effect by soaking up heat before it enters a building. It also works as additional insulation. It can increase the lifespan of a roof by as much as three times longer, and save on energy bill costs.

Liquid-Applied Roofing

This is created by applying high-tech polymers in liquid form that dry to form a moisture-free barrier.

Metal-Sloped Roofs

These are commonly used on high-rise buildings and last a long time.

Modified Roofing

This utilizes redundant layers of roofing to create a weather-resistant top. Built-up roofing is also similar and takes into account the roof’s slope and intricacies. Some forms are coal tar, asphalt, gravel, and modified bitumen.

Photovoltaic Solar Panels

This type of commercial roofing serves a dual purpose—it protects the building and provides solar power to it. These PV solar panels are installed on the roof and can be used with different types of roofing, including glass and roof-mounted tile. They can absorb the sunlight and convert to useable energy. This type of roofing isn’t commonly used yet, but can be a way to save money on energy down the road.

Thermoplastic Roofing

This is also known as TPO and it’s becoming one of the most popular types of commercial roofing today. It’s created of a durable material that is flexible, but has high endurance to heat or cold. It’s also resistant to the sun’s rays, and chemicals in industry. These types of roofs can last for up to twenty years or more. They’re also resistant to fires. They involve a single-ply membrane.

There are many choices in commercial roofing that can be confusing. Have a conversation with your commercial roofing contractors, as they are the best experts to help you choose commercial roofing based on the type of commercial building you have.

Learn more about Kearns Brothers, a full-service home improvement contractor servicing all of Southeast Michigan’s construction needs by visiting their website at www.kearnsbrothers.com or contact a remodeling expert at 888.355.6700.