Your Comprehensive Guide To Commercial Roof Types

All roofs, whether on homes or businesses, wear out over time. After many years, you'll need to install a new one. If you are planning to replace the roof of your commercial building, it's important to know your choices. Most commercial buildings have flat roofs, and several popular materials are used for these roofs. 

At McClellands Contracting and Roofing, we always aim to guide homeowners through the options available for their roofing needs. We will explore the different commercial roof types in this blog post! 

#1 Built-Up Roof

Cost: $4 - $10 per sq. ft.

Built-up roofing systems, often called BUR, are a popular type of commercial roof. It has been used on flat roofs for many years. This system uses multiple layers, which is why it's called "built-up." Roofers install it by adding layers of roofing felt and hot tar and finish it with a top layer of gravel. This design makes BUR roofs strong and long-lasting. Many business owners choose BUR for their commercial buildings because it protects well against water and sun damage. It's a trusted choice for flat commercial roofing systems.

#2 TPO 

Cost: $4 - $15 per sq. ft. 

TPO stands for thermoplastic polyolefin and is a durable plastic material used in this single-ply roofing system. It's one of the newer types of commercial roofing systems that's gaining favor among business owners.

The main layer of a TPO roof is made from thermoplastic polyolefin and reinforced with polyester. This combination makes the roof strong and resistant to damage from wind or foot traffic. TPO is an excellent commercial roofing material because it is robust and highly reflective. It reflects sunlight, which can lower air conditioning costs in summer.

TPO comes in large sheets, making it easier to install on larger roofs. This commercial roof type is known for its long life and low maintenance needs.  

#3 PVC 

Cost: $5 - $12 per sq. ft.

PVC roofs are another popular choice for commercial buildings. PVC stands for polyvinyl chloride, a type of plastic that's tough and long-lasting. This material is great for flat commercial roofs because it's waterproof and can handle harsh weather.

When installing a PVC roof, roofers use large sheets of the material. They weld these sheets together to create a seamless cover for your building. This helps prevent leaks, which is important for any commercial roof.

One big advantage of PVC roofs is that they reflect sunlight. This can help keep your building cooler and lower energy costs. It's also resistant to fire and chemicals, making it a safe choice for many businesses.

#4 Metal Roofs

Cost: $5 - $30 per sq. ft.

Metal is one of the best commercial roofing materials available. Metal roofs are made from strong materials like aluminum, copper, and zinc that don't let water seep into the roofing structure. This makes them last a long time. Many businesses choose metal for their flat roofs because it's tough, reliable, and works well for different types of commercial roofing systems. Whether you have a small shop, a factory, or a big warehouse, a metal commercial roof can be a great option. It's just one of several commercial roof types known for its durability and long life.

#5 EPDM 

Cost: $4 - $12 per sq. ft.

EPDM is another popular choice for commercial flat roofs. It stands for ethylene propylene diene monomer, which is a kind of rubber. This commercial roofing material is tough and can handle different weather conditions well. It's often used on buildings with flat or low-slope roofs. This material comes in large sheets that are rolled out over the roof. 

EPDM roofs are known for lasting a long time, sometimes up to 30 years if taken care of properly. They're also resistant to UV rays, which means they don't get damaged easily by sunlight. Another benefit is that EPDM roofs are easy to repair if they get damaged. When choosing commercial roofing materials, many building owners consider EPDM because it's affordable and reliable.

#6 Green Roofs

Cost: $10 - $30 per sq. ft.

Green roofs are a special type of commercial roofing system. They're not made of regular roofing materials, instead, they use plants and soil on top of a waterproof layer to create a living roof.

Green roofs save energy by keeping the building cooler in summer and warmer in winter. They also last longer than regular roofs. Plus, they create a nice outdoor space on the roof.

However, green roofs can be tricky to install and maintain and they're often more expensive than other commercial roofing materials. Some buildings might need extra support to hold the weight of the soil and plants.

Despite these challenges, green roofs are becoming more popular for commercial flat roofs. They help improve air quality and make cities cooler. If real plants are too hard to maintain, some businesses use fake grass to get a similar look.

#7 Modified Bitumen 

Cost: $4 - $8 per sq. ft.

Modified bitumen is made from asphalt that's mixed with rubber or plastic to make it stronger and more flexible. This roofing system comes in rolls and is installed in layers.

These roofs can handle changes in temperature without cracking, which makes them great for different weather conditions. They are also easy to fix if they get damaged. Modified bitumen comes in light colors that can reflect sunlight, which helps keep buildings cooler and saves energy. While they're not the cheapest option for commercial flat roofs, they're often worth the cost because they last for decades.

Many businesses choose modified bitumen for their commercial roofing system because it's reliable and doesn't need much maintenance. It's one of the most common types of commercial roofing materials used today.

#8 Asphalt Shingles 

Cost: $4 - $25 per sq. ft.

Asphalt shingles aren't just for homes - they're also great for certain types of commercial roofs. While many commercial buildings have flat roofs, some property owners choose sloped or pitched roofs for their commercial buildings. Asphalt shingles are one of the most common commercial roofing systems for buildings with pitched roofs. They're more affordable than many other commercial roof types and come in a variety of colors. 

However, asphalt shingles don't last as long as some other commercial roofing options. They might need to be replaced sooner, especially in areas with harsh weather. Despite this, many business owners choose asphalt shingles for their commercial roofs because they look nice and don't cost as much.

If you see a commercial building with a roof that looks like a house roof, it's probably using asphalt shingles.

Bonus Option: Solar Roofs

Cost: $15 - $35 per sq. ft.

Solar roofs are a modern type of commercial roofing system that combines regular roofing materials with solar panels. These roofs not only protect buildings but also generate electricity from sunlight. 

Solar roofs are great for businesses because they can reduce energy bills and help the environment. They work well on different commercial roof types, including flat and sloped roofs. 

The government encourages the installation of solar roofs by offering tax credits. This means businesses can save money when they install this type of commercial roofing system, making solar roofs more affordable for many companies.

How To Choose The Right Roofing Material For Your Commercial Roof

For your project, make sure to choose a roofing material that meets your specific requirements. Consider a durable, long-lasting option that doesn’t require frequent maintenance. Make a list of requirements and consider the overall aesthetic appearance of your building and the climatic conditions throughout the year. 

It is best to consult a roofing contractor in your area who will guide you through the most suitable options for your project.

Call McClellands Contracting and Roofing For Roof Replacement In Pittsburgh, PA.

Looking for a reliable roofing company in Pittsburgh, PA, and nearby areas? McClellands Contracting and Roofing is here to help. We offer top-quality residential and commercial roofing services in Pennsylvania.

We know your roof is a big investment; That's why we work hard to give you the best value for your money. Our team uses top-quality materials and does careful work to make sure your new roof lasts for years to come.

Whether you need a new roof for your house or your business, we've got you covered. We're known for our reliable service and skilled workers. When you choose us, you can trust that your roof will be installed right.

We aim to be the best roofing company in the area. Our goal is 100% customer satisfaction in every project. To know more about our services, give us a call at (412) 353-5660.