Roofing Newsletter Updates – Things to Know About Commercial Roofing Systems
The roof is a critical part of any building or structure. It protects the building and interior spaces from the elements and against intrusion and other damaging events. A quality roof is a huge part of protecting building integrity and value. Frequently, people think about roofing systems in terms of residential roofs. But commercial roofing is a huge industry as well and there is a lot to know to choose the right roof for a commercial building location.
According to Ridgeline Construction and similar roofing newsletters, “The growth of roofing industry contractors in the US was 3.8% in 2021. There are more than 100,000 roofing contractors in the United States. In 2021, the market size of the roofing industry was more than fifty billion dollars. The roofing market has recorded over five billion dollars in total earnings.” With stats and trends like this, it is easy to see why commercial roofing projects are in such high demand and why roofing services are impacting the industry. But what makes a commercial roof so unique and different from all the others? Let’s take a look and see what separates commercial roofs from residential roofs. The difference may surprise you.
Commercial Roofs vs. Residential Roofs- Roofing Newsletter Insights
While commercial and residential roofs serve a similar purpose, their design, construction, material use, and maintenance are vastly different. Understanding this distinction is critical to ensuring your commercial property has the best roof installed. Whether you are beginning the process or finishing up a remodeling, you can find the best roofers in the area and the best roofing newsletter publications to guide you. There are several key differences between commercial roofs and residential roofs, including:
Size: Commercial roofs are typically much more extensive than residential roofs due to the size of the buildings they cover. There is more square footage to cover with a business than a standard home, which can impact the material choice, type of roofing set up, and design specifications.
Pitch: Residential roofs are often steeply pitched, while commercial roofs are generally flat or low-sloped. Homes often have attics or crawl spaces to accommodate, whereas commercial properties are more likely to need easy access to the roof and so a flat design is more appropriate.
Materials: Commercial roofs are often made of different materials than residential roofs. Many commercial roofs use TPO, PVC, EPDM, or modified bitumen, as highlighted in many current roofing newsletters. Residential roofs may be made of asphalt shingles, wood slats, metal sheets, or durable tile.
Design: Commercial roofs are designed with the specific needs of the building in mind. Features such as HVAC systems, rooftop equipment, and drainage areas may need to be accessed regularly. Most residential roofs are designed for the occasional access needs of a normal single-family home.
Installation: Another difference is how complicated installation is. Commercial roofs often require specialized techniques and equipment due to their size and complexity. On the opposite side of the spectrum, most residential roofs can be installed with more common tools and techniques.
Maintenance: Commercial roofs often require more frequent maintenance than residential roofs due to their size and the complexity of their systems. They are also bigger, use more expensive materials, and have higher margins for care and upkeep than most family roofing systems.
Cost: Residential roofs are generally within the same price range as they are usually similar in size and shape from one home to another. However, commercial roofs are typically more expensive than residential roofs due to their size, construction, and installation requirements.
Overall, commercial and residential roofs have different needs and requirements, such as those highlighted in many roofing newsletter publications. Choosing the right type of roof for your building or home is essential to ensure long-term durability and performance. And for commercial property owners, this means knowing what to look for in their buildings and how to care for the roofing system all year. Roofing systems are an investment and something business owners and property managers cannot overlook.
What to Consider When Choosing a Commercial Roofing Setup
The roof of a commercial building does more than protect the budding beneath it. A good commercial roofing system can improve the property’s look and increase curb appeal. The right roof will ensure the building is sturdy and safe for years by working with the existing design and architectural setup.
When choosing the best commercial roofing setup for your property, there are a number of critical things to consider. By paying attention to the details, you can ensure the commercial roofing system is the best it can be. Whether working on your own commercial building or working with others in the industry on a roofing newsletter, there are many important facts to consider for commercial roofing services. These include the following:
Durability: Commercial roofs should withstand the elements and last for a long time. A commercial roof can also be used to attach solar panels too so working with solar companies can make the decision easier in the long run. Regardless, a commercial roofing system is designed to handle a lot of wear and tear.
Climate: The roofing system should suit your area’s climate and withstand extreme temperatures and weather conditions. Considering options like rooftop lease arrangements and upgrades is easier when you keep climate and weather in mind. Work with a local company for an even better experience.
Maintenance: Roofs for commercial properties should be easy to maintain and repair. Working with local maintenance and repair companies makes maintenance and upkeep easier. Commercial construction equipment rentals and access to the best materials are possible with the best commercial roofing team on your side.
Energy efficiency: The best commercial roofing setup should be designed to help reduce energy costs by providing insulation, regulating temperatures, and reflecting sunlight. It can also help choose the right materials that help manage airflow inside and keep the building cooler and more comfortable all year.
Installation cost: A good commercial roofing setup will be designed around an affordable system within an established budget. It is important to ensure enough funds are dedicated to the roof’s installation, care, and upkeep. Installation costs can vary, so it is essential to plan ahead accordingly.
Life cycle cost: The roofing system should be evaluated based on its expected life cycle cost, which includes installation, maintenance, and repair costs. Roofing companies specializing in commercial roofing setups will ensure you get the best system that will last years and serve you well.
Building codes: The roofing system should comply with building codes and regulations in your area. A great way to ensure all codes and regulations are followed for your commercial property is to work with a roofer from the local area. They will know what is and is not allowed and can ensure the system is top-notch.
Environmental impact: Commercial roofs should be environmentally friendly and sustainable. Everything from roofing installations to roofing replacement options must be eco-friendly and sustainable. The move towards green sustainability is something commercial companies cannot afford to overlook or ignore.
Warranty: Professional roofing systems and setups should have a warranty that protects against defects. This will help guarantee the product’s quality and also protects against injuries and personal injury claims or other legal and related issues that might arise down the road.
Appearance: The roofing system should enhance the overall appearance of your building and be aesthetically pleasing. Flat roof restoration and upkeep are essential to keep a commercial roof looking its best and to protect the important curb appeal of the property as a whole.
Fire resistance: A good roofing system on a commercial building should have a high fire rating and made to be fire-resistant. Additionally, roofing installation, materials, and designs should comply with fire safety codes in your area. Tile reroofing, flat roof upgrades, and PVC material replacement can all be fire-resistant.
Wind resistance: Commercial roofs need to be able to withstand high wind speeds. This is especially true if the building will regularly be exposed to high winds or is in an area prone to tornadoes or hurricanes. This will ensure the building is protected and holds up to daily exposure and extreme wear and tear.
Compatibility with existing roofing: When replacing a commercial roof, the new roof should be compatible with the old one as much as possible. This will lessen the chance of issues with the installation and make it easier to install and maintain. Roof installation experts will work to ensure no serious issues or damage are done.
Noise reduction: Commercial buildings and structures often design their roofs to help manage noise levels and reduce noise pollution. In some areas, such as big cities and busy urban areas, a good roofing design will provide noise reduction or offer insulating properties to lower noise levels inside the building.
Reflectivity: A roofing system with high reflectivity for commercial buildings in a hot climate can help reduce cooling costs. Lowering temperature levels, reducing UV exposure, offering shade by reflecting sunlight, and reducing heat absorption are key points commercial roofs should provide.
Practicality: No two buildings are the same, and no two commercial roofs are the same. Commercial roofing service providers can assist with the design and installation process to ensure everything goes according to plan. They can also offer tips and advice for routine inspections, care, maintenance, and upkeep.
With these points in mind, business owners and property managers can compare roofing options and find the best options for their unique circumstances. The seven best commercial roofing materials used today are as follows:
- Metal Roofing.
- Built-Up Roofing (BUR) Membrane.
- Green Roofing.
- Spray-On Silicon.
- Thermoset EPDM Roof Membrane.
- Thermoplastic PVC & TPO Roof Membrane.
- Shingle or Tile Roofing.
Choosing the right material for your specific commercial roofing needs will depend on various factors. A local roofing company or contractor can walk you through the process and help you find the best options and combinations for your commercial roofing needs.
Where to Find Commercial Roofing Pros
Now you know what to consider and what points to consider when choosing the best commercial roofing system for your business. But how do you find the best contractor? Without a skilled and experienced roofer overseeing the project, the best plans and designs will be meaningless. Choosing a roofer is critical to installation, maintenance, and repair. There are several ways to find local commercial roofing experts that are quick and easy yet also effective, from in-person discussions to roofing newsletter alerts:
- Online search: You can find some of the best local commercial roofing companies by doing a quick online search. Search for the type of roofing system you are interested in, your location, your specifications, or any other important factors, and see what results you get.
- Online directories: A number of online directories list local commercial roofing companies. These websites allow you to compare services and prices easily and also give access to client reviews. You can check several directories and see who is consistently listed as a top contractor.
- Referrals: Ask friends, family members, or business associates for referrals to commercial roofing companies they have used and trusted. Word of mouth is a wonderful way to find the best commercial roofers in the area. Knowing from the start a company is trusted is a big deal.
- Roofing newsletter: Signing up for print publications and industry news alerts can be valuable for property owners. Doing this will give you regular insight into the industry, roofing trends, and help you connect with industry leaders more effectively.
- Industry associations: Check with local industry associations, such as the National Roofing Contractors Association, to see what companies are recommended. They can also offer suggestions on comparing rates and services to find the perfect fit.
- Local business directories: Don’t forget about traditional directories and listings. Printed business listings are still common and readily available in many areas. They will provide easy access to local companies you can call and talk to for quotes or estimates.
These tips and insights will make it easier to get the commercial roofing system right for you and your business. Whether you read about a local company in a roofing newsletter, get a referral from a friend, or find them in an online search, local roofing pros make all the difference.