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Everything You Need to Know About Industrial Roofing

The roofing market in the US was worth around $26 billion in 2020. Analysts expect continued growth over the next five years.

Your industrial roof is a critical part of your business. After the challenges of the last year, now is the time to reinvest in your roof.

You have many types of roofing to choose from. Learn more about industrial roofing so you can pick the best roof for your business.

Types of Industrial Roofing

Many industrial roofs are single-ply membranes. Single-ply membrane roofs can be TPO, PVC, or EPDM. Other common types of roofing for commercial buildings are built-up roofing, modified bitumen, and metal.

Thermoplastic Polyolefin (TPO)

Thermoplastic polyolefin (TPO) is a single-ply roof membrane. It’s lightweight and reflective. It’s very durable and resistant to fire, wind, and UV radiation.

TPO roofing is a good choice for restaurants or other locations that emit oils from the ventilation system. This is because TPO will stand up to oils and fats.

Polyvinyl Chloride (PVC)

Polyvinyl chloride (PVC) is another single-ply roofing solution. It’s solid and stable.

The roofing crew can install it by heat welding the seams. This lets the PVC roof expand and contract with the building.

PVC is resistant to chemicals, fire, and UV radiation. However, it’s usually more expensive than TPO or EPDM roofing.

Thermoset (EPDM)

Thermoset (EPDM) roofing is a third option for a single-ply membrane. EPDM roofing is easy to install, maintain, and repair.

It’s very resistant to UV radiation, fire, and cold. It will also resist some acids, solvents, and alcohol. EPDM is often the most economical single-ply roofing option.

Built-Up

Built-up roofing gets its name from the installation process. The roofing crew applies the roofing materials in layers. Built-up roofing is made from tar or asphalt and gravel.

A built-up roof has a waterproof seal. It’s durable and low-maintenance. Built-up roofing is usually less expensive than other types of roofing.

Modified Bitumen

A modified bitumen roof is made from layers of bitumen mixed with fiberglass or polyester. Bitumen is a naturally occurring solid petroleum.

Modified bitumen stays flexible in extreme temperatures. It’s very durable and will withstand heavy foot traffic. It’s a great choice if you expect a lot of people to be walking on your roof.

Metal

Metal roofs are available in various materials, including stainless steel, corrugated galvanized steel, and aggregates of aluminum or zinc. You can choose from different patterns and colors.

Metals roofs are very fire resistant. They’re strong and long-lasting. Unlike some other commercial roofing materials, you can use metal roofing on a pitched roof.

Cool Roofing

In a warm climate, industrial buildings can benefit from a cool roofing system. Cool roofing is designed to reflect sunlight and absorb less heat than traditional roofing. You can reduce your energy use, save money, and help the environment.

An experienced industrial roofing company can make almost any roof a cool roof. The contractors will install or apply a coating to your existing roof.

Most cool roof coatings are white. New technology has made cool roofs possible in darker shades as well.

A cool roof will reduce your air conditioning use. Your utility bills will be lower. You’ll be helping prevent power outages by reducing peak demand on the power grid.

Cool roofing extends the life of your roof. The roof is under less stress because the temperature is lower. The coating gives you better waterproofing, which prevents leaks.

A cool roof helps the environment by reducing energy consumption and air conditioning use. Cool roofs reduce the urban heat island effect, so local temperatures stay lower. They also keep waste out of landfills because the old roof can usually remain in place.

Lifespan of Industrial Roofing

Several factors affect how long your commercial roofing will last. The weather, the type of roofing materials, and the maintenance schedule have some of the largest effects on the lifespan of your roof.

Weather

The weather has a large effect on the lifespan of your industrial roof. High temperatures can damage the sealant materials. High heat and humidity can make the roofing materials swell and weaken.

If you have air conditioning units on the roof, frequent trips to check the equipment can damage the roof.

Freezing weather can create heavy ice that can damage the roof. Water that freezes and thaws repeatedly can cause leaks.

Roofing Materials

Metal roofs typically last the longest. A metal roof can remain in service for 40 years or more.

An EPDM roof has a life expectancy of 22-35 years. PVC is similar, with a lifespan of 20-30 years. A modified bitumen roof should give you around 20 years of service.

A built-up roof normally lasts for 15-20 years. You may get up to 30 years with regular maintenance and repairs.

TPO roofing will usually give you 10-20 years of service. With careful maintenance, it can last up to 30 years.

Roof Maintenance

Routine maintenance inspections help you get the most life from your commercial roof. You’ll find any problems before they get worse. Simple tasks like cleaning the gutters can prevent problems from starting.

Inspections, cleaning, and repairs when necessary keep your roof in the best possible condition.

Other Considerations for an Industrial Roof

Your budget, the location of your building, and your business needs are important considerations when you’re planning a roofing installation. Your budget is obviously a large factor. Looking at the features of each type of roofing material and their typical lifespans will help you get the best value.

The location of your building affects what type of roof will work best. You should think about factors like the direction the building faces, if any areas are shaded and if the building is located in a wildfire zone.

The way you use your building is another consideration. For example, a warehouse may have different needs than an office building.

Finding the Right Roofing Contractor

Quality roofing materials are important. A quality installation is just as important for ensuring you get the best value from your industrial roofing.

HP Roofing Pro has provided quality roof repair, maintenance, and installation services to our clients since 2017. We’ll work with you to find the best roofing solution for your business.

Contact us today to schedule a free inspection. We look forward to serving you with all your industrial roofing needs.