Posted by thomas ferriere No Comments on Commercial Roof Lifespan: How Long Will It Last? Roofing

Commercial Roof Lifespan: How Long Will It Last?

The roofing industry was expected to grow by 4% in 2021 and continues to grow even now. The roofing industry is in constant demand since it is a necessity. If you own a business, you need to keep your roof in mind. A roof’s lifespan is usually generous, but eventually, that roof will need replacing.

The life span of a roof is going to depend on many factors specific to that roof. That is why it can be difficult to know how long your commercial roof will last.

Keep reading to learn more about a roof’s lifespan and what to expect.

Different Types of Roofs and Their Lifespan

When looking up a roof’s lifespan, you have to look at different types of roofs. There are many commercial roof options, and they will have different life spans.

This can impact your decision if your business needs a new roof. You will want to look into the pros and cons of each roof when considering a roof replacement.

In general, it is a good idea to understand your roof and what it is made of. This impacts its lifespan and the types of repairs it will need.

TPO Roofs

TPO (thermoplastic olefin) roofing is a frequently used roofing option in the commercial sector, particularly for structures like warehouses, offices, and malls. This type of roofing solution creates a flat roof with an estimated lifespan of 20 to 30 years with proper maintenance.

TPO roofs are made from a single-ply thermoplastic material, which offers robustness and longevity. The material is also highly resistant to UV rays and heat, making it a suitable choice for areas with hot climates. Additionally, TPO roofs are easy to install and repair, contributing to their popularity as a commercial roofing option.

PVC Roofs

Possibly the most popular commercial roof option is PVC roofing. These roofing materials create a flat roof that is known for its durability.

The roofing material comprises a thermoplastic polymer known as PVC (polyvinyl chloride), along with heat-welded beams. The combination of these components results in a robust roofing solution with long service life.

The average lifespan of a PVC roof is 15 to 30 years. It can be quite costly, but if maintained, you will definitely get your investment back over time.

Metal Roofs

A more traditional option will be a metal roof that has been around for a very long time. This type of roof has a very impressive life span of 40 to 60 years.

This roof is mostly built with metal, which helps it to be very durable and sturdy. If maintained, you can expect this roof to last a very long time without needing many repairs.

Keep in mind that metal roofs can become damaged by moist or humid climates.

EPDM Roofs

EPDM (ethylene propylene diene monomer) roofing is another frequently used roofing solution in the commercial sector. It is constructed from a durable rubber material contributing to the roof’s long lifespan.

An EPDM roof has an estimated lifespan of 20 to 30 years and is made from synthetic and industrial-grade components that provide robustness and longevity. Additionally, the roofing material is resistant to various weather conditions and external elements, making it a suitable choice for areas with diverse climates.

What Can Impact a Roof Lifespan?

Now that you know the roof lifespan to expect, you should know what can’t impact this. The lifespan of a roof can be significantly shortened due to certain things.

You want to be aware of these things so you know when your roof may need a replacement. Roof replacement is a big deal, and you want to be ready for this project.

Underlayment

Completely necessary roofing materials are underlayments. This is a material put underneath the roof to prevent leaking and disintegration.

The underlayment will depend on the type of roof that your business has. This material helps keep moisture and mold from building up on most roofs.

Without the right underlayment, the roof can begin to deteriorate much faster.

Weather

You cannot control the weather and how it affects your roof. Unfortunately, different weather events can significantly damage your roof and shorten its lifespan.

Hail storms, wind, and tornadoes can affect your business’s roof. It can damage your roof, resulting in costly repairs or even the need to replace it entirely.

This is why choosing the right type of roof for your climate is important. You should choose a material that will be the most durable for the weather in your area.

Roof Slope

A roof’s lifespan can be affected by the roof slope. Most commercial roofs are flat but need a way to shed moisture if it rains.

Roofs that take too long to shed moisture could become damaged from the water over time. That is why commercial roofs should be made of very tough and long-lasting materials.

Installation

How the roof is installed is also going to impact its lifespan. That is why it is so important to hire a reputable company that will do the job right.

Installing the roof correctly and having a good warranty will be invaluable. A badly installed roof will not stay on the test of time and will result in you losing money.

A Roof’s Lifespan for Commercial Buildings

If you have a commercial roof, you may be wondering about the average roof’s lifespan. This is something that you should consider for your business so that you know when a roof replacement is necessary.

Having a budget set aside for when this is necessary is also a good idea.

Do you need a roof repaired or a new roof? Contact us today at HP Roofing Pro to request an estimate.