What is the Most Common Commercial Roofing Material?
There are many commercial roofing options available, but what is the most common? Read on for an overview of each material, including PVC, EPDM, TPO, Composite shingles, and more. You’ll be glad you did once you get the basics down. In addition to being durable, these materials also improve a business’ curb appeal. Here are the pros and cons of each. If you’re looking to save money and improve the look of your building, composite shingles are a great choice.
EPDM
EPDM is one of the most common types of ResCorp Commercial Roofing material. It is a durable, flexible, and waterproof roofing material. However, there are several issues with EPDM roofs. Most of them are caused by improper maintenance. They can also be prone to damage from improper installation or improper seams. Here are some common problems with EPDM roofs. While this material is widely used for commercial roofing, it should be noted that it does have its downsides.
The main drawback of EPDM roofing is that it is not very resistant to punctures. However, depending on the thickness of the membrane, EPDM roofing may not be able to resist punctures. However, ballasted EPDM roofing comes close to 100% resistance. Although this material can be punctured, it will protect a building from damage caused by foot traffic or by falling objects. Another disadvantage of EPDM roofing is that it is not very beautiful to look at. However, this material is a very durable and cost-effective choice for commercial roofing.
PVC
The PVC roofing system is composed of two basic components: natural gas and oil. The monomer used in the manufacture of PVC is called vinyl chloride. The PVC roofing membrane is then processed to create sheets that are both flexible and rigid. When applied to a building, this material has excellent tear resistance, and it is a low-maintenance material. Its advantages outweigh its drawbacks, and it has become the most popular choice for commercial roofing.
PVC is also available in thermoplastic polyolefin (TPO), which is an inexpensive and lightweight roofing material. It has excellent wind and weather resistance, and is 100 percent recyclable. The TPO membrane is used for low-slope roofing in North America. It also features reinforced roof sheets and a heat-welded seam. It is also available in a variety of colors. It can be installed using adhered, ballasted, and mechanical attachment.
TPO
Although TPO is the most common commercial roofing material, you should consider the risks that come with using this material. TPO rolls are relatively thin, and they create a lot of seams when installed. TPO is also not fire resistant, so catching problems early is important to avoid damage. However, TPO is relatively inexpensive, so you might not have to worry about the cost. Read on to learn more about the risks and benefits of TPO for your commercial roofing project.
Although EPDM and TPO are both environmentally friendly, they are not made the same way and have slightly different benefits. The biggest benefit of EPDM is that it is more durable, but the former is better for the environment. TPO is also more affordable than PVC, so you may find it easier to install. TPO can be heat resistant and has a low cost per square foot, and you can expect it to last for several decades if properly maintained.
Composite shingles
Composite shingles are made from a blend of various roofing materials, including asphalt, fiberglass, and recycled paper products. They are lightweight and water-resistant, and can mimic a variety of other roofing materials. In addition to being lightweight, composite roofing has many other benefits, including a longer warranty and the ability to be customized to fit the shape of the roof. These qualities make them the most popular choice for commercial roofs.
The most expensive type of roofing material is cedar shakes, which have a natural wood look. This material can last up to 50 years if properly maintained. The wood is harvested from redwood and cedar trees and is split into two-foot-long sections. Cedar shakes have a rough texture and are hand-split to create a more rugged look. Since wood shakes are natural, they do not have a manufacturer’s warranty.
Modified bitumen
Modified bitumen first came to the market in the mid-1960s. Before that, most roofing systems used built-up roofing systems consisting of alternating layers of asphalt and fabric with a top layer of gravel. These roofing systems were expensive, hard to repair, and had difficulty holding up against extreme temperatures. Modified bitumen is a more affordable, durable alternative that combines polymers and fiberglass in a single membrane.
Modified bitumen is an energy-efficient option that is flexible enough to expand and contract with temperature changes. It can also be treated to add cool features such as solar reflectance and thermal emission. Modified bitumen is also highly durable, but it will require annual inspection and cleaning to keep it in shape. Commercial buildings are often subjected to a lot of foot traffic. As a result, it’s important to select a roofing material that is flexible enough to handle temperature shifts.