Commercial Roof types

Single-Ply Membrane is a time-tested roofing option for commercial, industrial and manufacturing facilities.   Single-Ply Membranes are sheets of rubber and other synthetics that can be ballasted, mechanically fastened or chemically adhered to insulation creating a layer of protection on your commercial facility.

While Single-Ply Membrane Roofing is one of the most well-known types of commercial roofing material, there are several types to fit your budget and facility needs.

This is an advanced roofing membrane made from a rubber compound combined with polyester fabric. The result is a membrane system that can easily withstand tearing, puncturing and exposure. Its most attractive feature though is its ability to naturally repel heat. TPO single-ply roofs are affordable and can be used on a range of buildings, from warehouses to restaurants.

Metal Roofing is one of the oldest commercial roofing systems on the market. Most metal roofing systems use corrugated galvanized steel, although other materials such as aluminum or tin can also be used.

Since metal roofing material is rather light in weight, it can be installed right on top of the existing roof. After a metal roofing system is installed, a coating can be added for waterproofing, rust protection, and UV protection.

Almost half of all low-slope commercial and industrial buildings have this kind of roofing system. Metal roofs boast exceptional strength and stability, and can even resist fire. It’s a popular choice for both residential and commercial properties because it requires little maintenance to keep it in good condition.

Tile roofs are considered one of the most aesthetically pleasing types of roofs. Tile comes in a variety of colors and textures and styles range from flat to barrel-style tile. There are generally two types of tile: clay and concrete. Each type comes in different styles and colors.

Tile is virtually resistant to the elements, which makes it an ideal roof system. It is practically maintenance free and is also considered an energy efficient type of roof system. Tile is Class A fire resistant and can withstand winds up to 125-miles per hour.

Tile manufacturers offer a wide range of warranties, including 50-year and limited lifetime warranties. The lifespan of tile roofs, combined with the long tile warranties make it a very cost-effective product

Modified Bitumen roofing systems utilize layers of asphalt that are modified with other materials, like polymers and fiberglass, for increased durability. They are quick to install, easy to maintain, cost-efficient, and ideal for the Florida sun as the granules in the top layer cap-shet provide a reflection from ultraviolet sun rays helping to cool a building. A single-layer system has a typical lifespan of 12-16 years, so adding multiple layers can add up to a 25-year lifespan. 

Roof coatings are a great economical alternative to a roof replacement. At half the cost of a replacement, coatings can extend the life of your flat roof up to 10 years. Coatings require a primer, base coat, fabric, additional base coat on top of the fabric, and a final top coat. They provide for a fully-adhered membrane that can withstand extreme weather conditions while also providing cost-savings due to their reflective, UV-resistant properties.

Shingle roofing is mostly known for homes and residential roofing, but shingles are very often used for steep slope commercial roofing applications.   Shingles can be made out of a few different materials, including wood, slate, metal, plastic, ceramic and composite material such as asphalt. There are two main types of shingles: Asphalt and Architectural.

Asphalt Shingles: most common, cost-effective shingle on the market used for applications. These roof systems often come with 15 – 30-year warranties on average.

Architectural Shingles: multi-layered and heavier to add durability and weatherproofing to the building. Often comes with “lifetime” warranties.

 The classic asphalt roofing system is also trendy among smaller commercial properties. Architectural shingles, compared to three-tab, have a service life comparable to premium roofing materials. They are also sturdy. Some variants can be made to emulate the look of wood shake shingles.