What is Commercial Roofing?
It is primarily the function of commercial roofing systems and residential roofs to protect property. Construction and installation materials, however, differ greatly between them. Commercial roofing systems typically consist of single-ply (TPO, PVC, EPDM), concrete, modified bitumen, built-up roofing systems, tar and gravel, and more. Asphalt shingles or concrete tiles are typically used for residential roofs, depending on the weather.
In order to get assured results, you should research carefully and choose a reliable contractor who offers extensive commercial roofing services compared to residential roofs.
Commercial roofing systems types
BUR Membrane or Built-Up Roofing
In addition to tar and gravel roofs, built-up roofing is also known as BUR roofs. The system is made up of multiple layers or piles that enhance its durability. The BUR roof system is a low-slope roof system that is cost-effective and durable.
Metal Roofing
The metal roof is one of the most popular types of commercial roofs. A variety of materials are available, including metal tile sheets, corrugated galvanized steel, stainless steel, stone-coated steel, silicon-coated steel, copper, aluminum, zinc, and tin aggregates.
In addition to being durable, metal commercial roofing systems are also fire-resistant. In order to prevent rusting and damage caused by sunlight and other environmental factors, they often have protective layers applied. Your property will also be more sustainable, and you will have a more appealing option.
Modified Bitumen Roofing
A modified bitumen commercial roofing system, also known as mod-bit roofing, consists of reinforced roof fabrics layered with bitumen. To ensure maximum protection and stability, it is fastened to rooftops as two-ply systems. As compared to other commercial flat roofs, modified bitumen roofs are easy to maintain and have improved tensile strength. A commercial roof with a lot of activity is a perfect choice.
Thermoset or EPDM Roof Membrane
Compared to other types of commercial roofs, the thermoset roof, also known as EPDM roofing, is versatile, long-lasting, and easy to maintain. Simple installation and strong resistance to ozone and ultraviolet light are among its advantages. It is constructed from a single-ply rubber material. Other benefits of EPDM roofs include their resistance to some solvents, acids, and alcohol, flexibility in colder temperatures, and reflective properties that can reduce cooling costs.
Thermoplastic or PVC & TPO Roof Membrane
Thermoplastic Polyolefin (TPO) and Poly Vinyl Chloride (PVC) roofs are ideal for second-generation applications. Besides being lightweight, they are also resistant to UV rays, punctures, most chemicals, and bacterial growth. Restaurants, hotels, and other businesses whose ventilation systems release oils benefit from PVC and TPO commercial roofs.
Green Roofing System
Increasingly popular in recent years, green roofs are a sustainable option for properties. By using them, you can improve efficiency and manage water and drainage concerns. Aside from being aesthetically pleasing, they are also eco-friendly commercial roofing materials.
3 Essential Aspects of Commercial Roofing
Commercial Roof Installation
An installation method for a commercial roofing system can vary greatly depending on the roof material, the price, and the labor hours required. To ensure that the work is completed on time, within budget, and at your convenience, you should hire a reputable commercial roofing contractor.
Inspection of the roof
Commercial roofing inspections include inspecting roof membranes, decking, vents, flashing, gutters, downspouts, and drainage pipes. Preventing roof damage, identifying problems early, and avoiding costly repairs can be accomplished by doing so.
Maintenance of Commercial Roofs
A commercial roof’s life can be extended through proper maintenance as well as inspection. Cleaning debris, repairing leaks, tears, or water damage on the roof, repairing flashing and HVAC systems on the roof, preparing your roof for every season, and maintaining the roofing material are all part of this service.
Cost of Commercial Roofing Services in Toronto
Installation, inspection, and maintenance of commercial roofing services are subject to several factors. The following are included:
- Labour, time, supplies, and other resources are determined by the type of roof, accessibility, and slope.
- Permits required in your area for installing and repairing a commercial roof.
- Commercial roofing services cost will be affected greatly by the scope of services and the area of the roof.
- The cost of your commercial roof may increase if you add skylights, chimneys, and more.
Questions about Commercial Roofing Systems and Services
Commercial flat roofs: How long do they last?
The lifespan of commercial roofs varies depending on the type and material of construction. The lifespan of an EPDM flat roof is approximately 30 years, that of a PVC roof is about 20 years, and that of a TPO commercial roof is between 15 and 20 years. Maintaining a roof properly is also important for its longevity.
What are Commercial Flat Roofs Made of?
In modern commercial flat roofing systems, single sheets of PVC, TPO, EPDM synthetic rubber are typically used. Large commercial buildings use them because of their excellent quality.
What is the Best Commercial Roofing Type?
There are several high-performance commercial roofing systems, including PVC roofs, which are ideal for commercial flat roofs, metal roofs, which are ideal for buildings with a roof slope greater than two inches, TPO roofs, and modified bitumen roofs.
What are the Popular Commercial Roofing Styles?
Flat roofs, pitched roofs, and low sloped roofs are among the most popular roof types for commercial buildings.
For Commercial Roofing in Toronto, hire Integrity Roofers
Integrity Roofers offers comprehensive roofing services tailored to meet the needs of our customers. All types of commercial roofing systems can be installed and maintained by us, as we have the expertise, experience, and resources necessary. Our commercial roofing services include inspections, maintenance, repair, replacement, and more.
Call us at 647-953-9365 if you have any questions about our commercial roofing services in Toronto. Please fill out our online form to receive a free quote. All roofing problems can be solved with a visual inspection, written estimates, and a reliable solution.
Commercial Roofing Systems: 5 Types
It is common for future clients to compare several types of roofing systems when we meet with them. Many people ask us: What are the most popular types of commercial roofing? What is the better option? What is the more reasonable price? There are five types of commercial roofing that will be discussed in this article.
For decades, West Roofing Systems has helped customers choose the right roof for their building and their budget. Everyone should feel empowered when they begin getting quotes from contractors.
Below we take a closer look at five of the most common types of commercial roofing along with their average costs* and advantages.
Foam Roofing Sprayed With Polyurethane
For commercial, industrial, and manufacturing facilities, Spray Polyurethane Foam (SPF) is an eco-friendly roofing option. An SPF layer is formed by spraying a liquid polyurethane foam over an existing roof, expanding into a solid layer as it expands.
While SPF roofing is not the most well-known type of roofing material, it has been used for industrial, commercial, and residential buildings since the early 1960s. SPF roofing systems can be used in any climate and last for over 50 years when installed and maintained correctly.
An average of 20,000 square feet. SPF roofing systems usually cost between $8.00 and $12.00 per square foot in materials and labor per square foot. Based on the thickness and building structure of an SPF roof, this price range is provided.
It is important to note that spray foam roofing costs depend on hundreds of variables. There are a number of reasons for this, including the rising prices of manufacturers. The price range will decrease if the cost of materials decreases.
Spray Polyurethane Roofing Advantages
There are quite a few benefits of SPF roofing systems:
- Energy Efficient – SPF provides the highest R-value per inch by providing thermal, air, and moisture barriers.
- Durable – As the foam material expands and contracts with the building, cracks and splits are less likely to occur.
- Seamless and Waterproof – There are no joints or seams in the continuous solid surface, removing the most vulnerable area for leaks.
- Avoids the costly tear-off – The original roof is rarely stripped, which reduces the need for costly roof tear-offs.
- Renewable – After the warranty on a spray foam roof expires, it can be recoated or renewed for 33% – 50% of its original cost. When any other roofing system’s warranty expires, it must be torn off, which costs 100% of its original price.
Roofs With Single-Ply Membranes
Commercial, industrial, and manufacturing facilities have long benefited from single-ply membranes. Rubber and other synthetic single-ply membranes can be ballasted, mechanically fastened, or chemically adhered to insulation to provide a layer of protection.
There are several types of commercial roofing materials to meet your budget and facility requirements, including single-ply membrane roofing.
Based on an average of 20,000 square feet. EPDM roofs usually cost $3.50 to $7.50 per square foot, and TPO roofs cost $3.50 to $6.50 per square foot, including materials and labor warranties.
Advantages Of Single-Ply Membranes
Commercial single-ply membrane roofs can last 30 years if properly installed and maintained. Among the other benefits of single-ply membrane roofing systems are:
- Proven Track Record – Commercial flat roofing has been using EPDM for over a decade. It has been possible to perform and track various laboratory and field studies during this time on the market.
- Customer Choice of Insulation – Due to the fact that single-ply membrane roofing does not include the insulation factor, you have more options for insulating your facility’s roof as a customer.
- Class A Fire-Rated – In the manufacturing process, fire retardant chemicals can be added to TPO membranes and EPDM to achieve Underwriters Laboratories (UL) Class A fire resistance listings.
- Reflective or Retentive – White TPO is generally highly reflective and has a white color. EPDM, on the other hand, is often referred to as “Black Roofs,” because of its natural dark color.
Roofing Made Of Metal
There are many commercial roofing systems available on the market, but metal roofing is one of the oldest. Corrugated galvanized steel is usually used in metal roofing systems, though other materials such as aluminum or tin can also be used.
As metal roofing material is relatively light in weight, it can be installed directly over an existing roof. In addition to waterproofing, rust protection, and UV protection, a coating can be applied to metal roofing systems.
To install a typical metal roofing system, it will most likely cost between $5.00 and $10.00 per square foot in materials and labor. Depending on the style and type of metal panels you choose, the price range may vary.
Advantages Of Metal Roofing
It is possible for a commercial metal roof to last 40 years if it is properly installed and maintained. In addition to metal roofing’s many benefits, there are also:
- Design – A variety of materials and colors are available.
- Stability – High wind and snow resistance.
- Energy Efficient – It is possible to make sheet metal from recycled materials.
- Fire Resistance – Panels made of metal are less prone to fire damage and do not cause fires.
Roofing With Shingles
Although shingles are mostly associated with homes and residential roofing, steep slope commercial roofing often uses shingles as well. Wood shingles, slate shingles, metal shingles, plastic shingles, ceramic shingles, and composite shingles may be made from a variety of materials. Asphalt and architectural shingles are the two main types of shingles.
Asphalt Shingles: This is the most common and cost-effective shingle on the market. In general, these roof systems are covered by warranties of 15 – 30 years.
Architectural Shingles: A multi-layered and heavier material is used to make the building more durable and weatherproof. Often comes with a lifetime warranty.
It costs between $2.50 and $5.00 per square foot to install a typical shingle roofing system on a commercial building. Depending on the type and style of shingles you choose, this price range can change.
Shingle Roofing Advantages
Some benefits of commercial shingle roofing include:
- Design – A variety of colors and designs are available
- Durable – Certain types of shingles are hail-resistant
- Easy Repair – Small areas of damage are easily spotted and repaired
Built-Up Roofing
Over 100 years ago, built-up roofing systems were first used in the U.S. Known as “tar and gravel” roofs, they were first used in the late 19th century. A built-up roof is constructed by alternating layers of asphalt or tar and supporting fabrics. Depending on your preference, you can install layers (or plies). Built-up roofing systems consist of stone or gravel as the final layer.
A typical built-up roof typically costs between $5.50 – $8.50 per square foot in materials and labor for installation. Depending on the materials you choose, this price range can change.
Built-Up Roofing Advantages
It is possible for a built-up roof to last 40 years if it is properly installed and maintained. Built-up roofing systems also offer the following benefits:
- Seamless and Waterproof – The continuous solid surface has no joints or seams, which eliminates the most vulnerable areas for leaks.
- UV Rays – protects against ultraviolet rays.
- Low- maintenance – Requires little maintenance after installation.
It is clear that there are many options when it comes to choosing a new commercial roof. The 5 types of commercial roofing each have their own advantages and disadvantages, so choosing the best one depends on the customer.
Conclusion
For commercial, industrial, manufacturing and municipal buildings, West Roofing Systems, Inc. installs sustainable and efficient roofing systems. Our expert team has installed over 60,000,000 square feet of commercial roofing over the last 40 years.
You can get a free no-obligation commercial roof quote from our team of experts if you fill out our quote form.
Costs reported are not quotes, they are approximates. To request a quote and proposal for your roof, please contact West Roofing Systems.