Commercial flat roofs are a standard option for many commercial buildings due to their many advantages. They offer space optimization, added design flexibility, and cost-effectiveness.
However, like all roofing styles, they require proper maintenance and repair to ensure longevity. To assist building stewards in understanding the best procedures for maintaining their flat roofs, this article will examine the fundamental characteristics of flat roofing materials.
Table of Contents
Material
For a few reasons, commercial flat roofs are the norm for business and industrial properties. They’re cheaper upfront and faster to install than sloped roofs; they can maximize space for storage and other amenities and offer easier access during maintenance or repairs.
Commercial building owners can choose from many materials for their flat roofs, including single-ply membranes like EPDM or PVC, which are relatively affordable and offer a 30-50-year lifespan. These materials also come in various colors to improve their UV ray-blocking and insulation capacities.
Another option is to spray polyurethane foam (SPF), which is sprayed on as liquid before it expands, providing commercial flat roofs with extra insulation. This type of roofing offers a longer lifespan and is highly durable, helping to keep property managers from dealing with frequent roof replacements. These materials also work well for minimizing water damage from severe storms that can slow business operations and result in costly damages.
Membrane
While most homeowners picture peaked roofs, flat roofing is a standard business option. Commercial flat roofs use various materials, including single-ply membranes such as PVC, EPDM, and TPO. These membranes are heat welded together or adhered to the substrate using seam tape. When a penetration occurs, such as an internal pipe, AC unit curb, or vent, a second layer of flashing must seal the area.
The beauty of commercial flat roofs is that they require much less maintenance than sloped roofs, saving owners money in the long run. Because commercial flat roofing contractors St Louis county MO don’t have to go around the building structure, they can access the region much more readily when it comes time to maintain or repair a flat roof. Flat roofs are ideal for a business that houses equipment, such as HVAC or filtration systems. A reputable contractor should be able to recommend the best commercial roofing option for your property.
Substrate
The substrate is a crucial part of the system when constructing commercial roofs. That is especially true for those roofs that use spray polyurethane foam (SPF) materials.
Wood is a common type of substrate, as are other materials such as oriented strand board (OSB), made from wood strands or chips that are layered and bonded together with adhesives. Concrete substrates are also popular and work well with modern roofing membranes.
Another type of substrate used on commercial flat roofs is an insulation board, often a rigid foam insulation like expanded polystyrene (EPS). This material helps reduce energy costs in the building by providing thermal insulation. It is also helpful for mounting equipment on the roof, such as HVAC units or filtration systems. Aside from being less expensive than pitched roofs, commercial flat roofs are typically easier to access and maintain. Time is precious to business owners who want to maintain smooth operations, which helps save it.
Installation
A well-designed and durable commercial flat roof can add value to a building. It can also save business owners money by providing energy-efficient and sustainable solutions for various functions.
A flat roof can also accommodate a variety of equipment and features, including HVAC and filtration systems. It is also easier to install a flat roof on a large commercial building than a pitched roof, as contractors can gain access quickly without worrying about the safety of climbing sloped terrain.
A commercial flat roof is more resilient than a pitched one and can last decades if properly maintained. It can be accomplished by performing regular inspections, keeping gutters free of debris, trimming trees that are near the roof, and, if a problem develops, getting in touch with a reliable roofing company. By doing this, little leaks won’t grow into more significant issues that may eventually require expensive repairs or roof replacement.
