Commercial Roofers in Austin, TX
The most significant difference between commercial roofing systems and residential roofing is the slope of the roof determined by the size of the building.
Residences usually have a steep slope roof that is visible from the ground and uses materials such as architectural tile, asphalt shingles, and slate.
Given the larger size, commercial roofs tend to have flat or only slightly sloped roofs that are not visible from the ground.
A Robust Roofing System is Essential
Serving as the first line of defense against weather elements a robust roofing system shields interiors from rain, wind, and harsh sunlight. A well-designed and properly installed roofing system protects occupants and assets and prevents potential water damage, mold growth, and is energy efficient. In commercial settings, where operations and valuable assets are at stake, investing in a resilient roofing system ensures a secure and sustainable environment.
Choosing a Commercial Roofing System
When choosing the commercial roofing system for your roof, we advise you to take into account the shape of your roof, the type of facility you are working with, and the types of roofing systems available.
Becoming familiar with the types of commercial roofing systems that are available will help in your decision-making process.
The Shape of The Commercial Roof
There are two shapes of commercial roofs, both are related to the slope of the roof.
Low slope roof or flat roof and steep slope roof.
Low Slope Roof or Flat Roof
You can find these roofing systems in warehouses, big box stores, and shopping centers. With this roofing system, there are several options for flat roofs including EPDM, PVC, and TPO.
Steep Slope Roofs
The roof is considered a steep slope roof when the pitch is 3:12 (14° angle) or greater. Materials suitable for steep slope roofs include
These roofing systems are more commonly seen on single and multi-family homes than they are on commercial properties.
Commercial Roofing Systems
There is a wide variety of roofing systems available.
Now that you have identified your roof slope, you will be able to make a learned decision on what roofing system fits you best.
Below are the most common commercial roofing systems.
Built-Up Roofing (BUR)
A built-up roof, or BUR, is a roofing system for flat or low-sloped roofs. It combines several layers of material built on top of each other.
Built-up roofs are made from at least three materials: ply sheets, layers of bitumen or asphalt, and a surfacing material like stone or gravel.
The modern BUR’s base is thick roof insulation with a cover board. On top of the board are alternating layers of bitumen and ply sheets, such as roof felt. The bitumen can be “cold,” which means an adhesive application, or “hot” applied with a torch. The top layer is a surface material such as small stones or gravel.
Some BURs, especially in commercial spaces, have a UV layer under them for heat resistance.
EPDM (Ethylene Propylene Diene Monomer) Roofing
EPDM roofing for commercial low slope and flat roof systems. EPDM is a synthetic rubber, making it an extremely durable roofing solution. The membrane has high resistance to UV radiation and remains flexible even at low temperatures. Some formulations have heat and chemical resistance.
You can find more information about EPDM Roofing in this link.
TPO (Thermoplastic Olefin) Roofing
TPO is ideal for flat or low-slope roofs. This innovative material is made up of polypropylene, a chemical compound known for its elasticity and durability and commonly used in the manufacturing of a slew of both industrial and household products. It repels moisture from potential roof wreckers like rain or snow.
The other important component of TPO is ethylene-propylene rubber, a synthetic elastomer related to rubber. TPO material is typically manufactured in sheets that are available in various sizes and is distinguished by its bright white color.
Metal Roofing
Metal roofing is suitable for both low-slope and flat roofs as well as for steep-slope roofs.
Modified Bitumen Roofing
A modified bitumen roof combines asphalt and a unique chemical polymer for flexibility and temperature resistance. It can be applied in multiple layers, in several ways (self-adhesive sheets, hot-mopped asphalt, torch applied or cold-applied adhesives), in both hot and cold temperatures, making it a viable option for installation through all four seasons.
The seams are melted together to form a secure bond. They are rated against wind, fire, and hail which means they are resistant to damage during a storm. Find out more in this link.
Photovoltaic (PV) Solar Panels
Solar shingles, or solar roof tiles, are made of slim photovoltaic (PV) sheets that either overlay or replace the existing shingles on a roof. They absorb sunlight and convert it into electricity. By relying on this method of energy as opposed to electricity, for example, homeowners will save money on monthly bills and eventually recoup their initial investments.
When installing a rooftop photovoltaic system, Austin Roofing Company will help you maintain the integrity of the roofing system to keep your building watertight without interrupting the service of the PV system.
You can find more information about Solar Panels in this link.
Spray Polyurethane Foam (SPF) Roofing
Spray foam roofing, also known as “spray polyurethane foam” or SPF is a fluid-applied insulation material typically used on commercial roofs. It is a mixture of two chemicals that expand and harden to form a solid, seamless, and tough membrane when mixed and sprayed onto a surface. If maitained properly it can last up to 50 years.
SPF is typically installed along with an , durable coating is applied over the foam and protects it from the elements, including rain, sun, and hail.
Due to the nature of how it is applied it doesn’t create invasive disturbances or emit harmful or strong odors, making it a good option for when businesses need to stay open during construction.
Green Roofing
A green roof or living roof is a roof that is partially or completely covered with vegetation and a growing medium, planted over a waterproof membrane. It may also include additional layers such as a root barrier and drainage and irrigation systems.
Green roofs absorb rainwater, provide insulation, and help to lower urban air temperatures and mitigate the heat.
You can find more information about Green Roofing in this link.
