Whether you are a commercial property owner, there are several variables to consider when choosing a commercial roofing system. The type of facility and its roof need to be taken into consideration. Businesses from schools to hospitals, restaurants to hi-rise apartments require specific planning to protect the workplace and what’s inside. Each roof material and type requires specialized installation, applications, and maintenance specific to the building and the business. Here are a few factors to consider when choosing commercial roofing systems.
Your Existing Roofing System
Sometimes, you may need to install a new roofing system on top of your existing one. If this is the case, make sure you choose a commercial roofing material compatible with your current roofing system. For example, if you have a metal roof, you may want to choose a commercial roofing material that’s also made of metal. It will help ensure a seamless look and avoid future problems with compatibility. If your existing roof is asphalt shingle, slate, or tile, you have many options for commercial roofing materials. Choose one that will complement the look of your property and last as long as possible. If you’re not sure what type of existing roofing system you have, contact a professional roofing expert for advice. An expert will inspect your roof and tell you what type of commercial roof would be the best fit.
The Type Of Business Housed Within It
The third factor to consider is the type of business conducted within your building. A storage warehouse will have vastly different heating and cooling needs than a retail clothing store. In the case of a retail store, where customers are expecting a moderate and comfortable temperature, an energy-efficient system like Flexion or TPO may be worth the higher upfront cost. While a warehouse that stores non-temperature-sensitive inventory may opt for a less energy-efficient but more affordable roofing system, like EPDM. Buildings housing restaurants or manufacturers require a roofing system that can accommodate ventilation and exhaust systems, as well as withstand damage from chemicals and oils, like PVC.
Environmental Impact
The environmental impact of commercial roofing systems is another important factor to take into consideration. Whether a system is made from recycled material, can be recycled at the end of its life, is highly reflective, or can accommodate additional insulation or photovoltaic panels are all “green” features commercial building owners may want to watch for. Beyond the obvious energy efficiency (and subsequently lower utility costs) these features provide, certifications may offer significant incentives for building owners to “go green” for their new roofs.
Your Budget
It’s important to remember that your roof is an investment and you need to consider more than the initial price tag to truly understand its value. You’ll want to take into account the true lifetime cost of the roof by considering factors like future maintenance, repairs, longevity, and available warranties. Roofing materials that are less expensive upfront often come with a shorter lifespan, requiring repairs or even complete commercial roof replacement much sooner than materials that are more expensive to start with. Roofing systems with added benefits like the ability to be recoated, extreme energy efficiency, or stellar warranties, could end up paying for themselves when you compare your initial investment to what you will save over time.
Roof Repair and Maintenance
All commercial roofing systems require some level of roof repair and roof maintenance. The frequency and severity of repairs will depend on the type of material used, how well it’s been installed, and how often it’s been maintained. Be sure to have a regular roof inspection schedule in place so you can catch any potential problems before they become expensive or dangerous. Your contractor should provide a detailed plan for how often your roof needs to be inspected and what kind of maintenance it requires. Follow their recommendations closely to ensure your commercial roof stays in good condition for years to come.
Following these tips will help make the process of choosing a commercial roofing system much easier for you. By understanding your needs and how they relate to different roofing materials, you can find one perfect for your property. And when you’re ready to choose your commercial roofing system, contact Hero Roofing in Newnan to get started!
