The Different Types of Commercial Roofs in California

Your commercial building’s roof replacement is an investment in your company. Nevertheless, there are typically a lot of questions surrounding this choice. How can you determine whether it’s time to replace it? Which material is the best option, and what is the typical cost?

It can be very confusing to sort through the various kinds of commercial roofing solutions. Choose the finest choice and schedule your next roofing replacement with the help of our guide. You may take advantage of all the advantages that come with a new commercial roof by making the appropriate choice.

When Should You Replace Your Commercial Roof?

Depending on the type of roofing material, commercial roofs can last anywhere from 20 to over 100 years. However, if you observe any of the following, you might need to replace your roof before its entire service life is over:

• Explicit damage like cracks, holes, or blistering
• Symptoms of water leaks inside the building
• Increased energy bills with no other expansion

If there’s visible damage to the roof of your commercial building, it’s crucial to repair it immediately. In cases of heavy damage, you may need to completely replace the roofing. The energy costs of your commercial property may occasionally be impacted by an old roof. Your building’s HVAC system will have to work harder to maintain controlled inside temperatures if the roof isn’t adequately insulating it.

6 Commercial Roofing Materials

Selecting the material for your new installation is the first thing to do when you determine it’s time to replace your commercial roof. Every kind of material used for commercial roofing has advantages and disadvantages, and some are more suited to withstand extreme weather than others.

Think about the following six popular commercial roofing material kinds and what makes each different:

Metal Roofs

Metal roofing is strong, durable, and versatile, making it a popular choice for commercial roofing in California. When applied with protective layers, metal roofs can last for decades. They work well on buildings with various roof shapes, from flat roofs to steep slopes.

There are several different metal options, ranging from copper to galvanized steel. Your local roofing contractor in California can offer recommendations based on your location and budget. There are more expensive varieties of metal roofing than others. The downside to metal roofing is the potential for corrosion if the finish is damaged, but with proper installation and maintenance, a metal roof will yield a long-term return on investment.

Built-up Roofs (BUR)

For those who live in regions with significant temperature variations and require a walkable roof, built-up roofing, or BUR, can be the ideal choice. This kind of gravel and tar roofing is applied in multiple layers. Once these layers harden, a BUR can be coated to reflect heat and improve energy efficiency. BURs are cost-effective, but they typically last up to 20 years with proper maintenance and don’t offer much structural stability.

Single-Ply Membrane Roofs

In contrast to built-up roofs, single-ply membrane roofs are installed in a single layer. The two main types are thermoset membranes and thermoplastic membranes. Business owners often choose this roofing because it’s flexible, weather-resistant, and durable.

Thermoset Membrane: Made with EPDM, a synthetic rubber that resists sun damage and is a good choice for low-slope roofs.

Thermoplastic Membrane: Includes PVC and TPO, both of which are durable, cost-effective, and resistant to sun and bacteria damage.

Shingle Roofs

For commercial buildings with a steep slope, shingles are a good choice. This roofing type comes in materials like slate, asphalt, metal, and ceramic. High-quality shingle roofs are durable, energy-efficient, affordable, and fire-resistant, lasting up to 50 years.

Spray-on Roofing

Spray polyurethane foam (SPF) is a roofing material sprayed onto your existing roof, where it expands and hardens into a solid surface. SPF roofing is reflective, insulating, and durable, lasting for decades with proper maintenance. However, it can’t be applied during poor weather conditions.

Modified Bitumen Roofing (MBR)

A modified bitumen roofing system, sometimes called a “torch-down” roof, is best for low-slope or flat roofs. Made of asphalt and polymers, MBR is strong, flexible, and improves insulation, leading to reduced energy costs. It’s a good choice for a walkable roof due to its durability.

How to Choose the Best Roofing Option for You

Several factors should be considered when replacing commercial roofing systems. Here are five questions to help make the best choice:

1. What type of roofing slope does the building have?
2. What weather conditions will it need to endure?
3. What’s your budget range for a new roof?
4. What are your objectives for a new roof?
5. Do you have any material preferences, and why?

These questions will help you navigate the different options available. Some types of commercial roofs are better for energy efficiency, others last longer, and some materials are more walkable. Keep in mind that the price isn’t just the primary cost — maintenance, durability, and energy efficiency can affect the total cost of a roofing system.

Choose Roofing Services California for Your Next Roofing ProjectRoofing Services California has offered roof replacement, restoration, and other services to owners of both commercial and residential properties. As a leading roofing company in California, we offer a complimentary inspection and evaluation before recommending the best path forward. Whether you need metal roofing contractors in California or local roofing contractors for a different material, we are here to ensure your roof is durable, energy-efficient, and cost-effective. Trust us for all your commercial roofing needs in California.