Commercial Roofing Pikesville MD protects commercial structures like office buildings, hospitals, warehouses, and shopping malls. It usually covers a flat or slightly sloped roof and can be made of various materials.

EPDM roofs are easy to maintain and have excellent resistance to ozone, ultraviolet light, solvents, alcohol, and bacteria. They also optimize energy efficiency, lowering heating and cooling expenses.

Commercial flat roofs are some of the most common types of roofing in the world. With several advantages over pitched roofs, it’s no wonder that businesses choose them for many reasons. These can include a reduction in maintenance costs, HVAC considerations, and space savings. Flat roofs are almost completely level or have a very slight slope and feature weatherproofing, reinforcement, drainage, and surfacing.

While many different options are available, EPDM and TPO are two of the most popular choices. Both are white, heat-welded thermoplastic roofing membranes that look similar to each other but differ significantly. The primary differences are the material used, thickness, and durability.

These roofs are highly durable and have an average lifespan of 30 years. With proper care, they can last even longer. Maintenance includes regular inspections, water and debris clean-up, and the occasional application of roof sealant. In addition, business owners should keep trees trimmed near the building and debris away from the roof, and hire professional commercial roofing companies for any repairs that may be needed.

Another major benefit of flat roofs is that they provide more usable space for equipment like air conditioning and heating units, telecommunications equipment, or solar panels. Additionally, flat roofs can resist wind damage better than some other types of roofs.

When it comes to choosing a commercial flat roof, the type of material will greatly influence the cost. Unlike sloped roofs, which are often built from materials that require structural support, flat roofs can be built from less costly materials. This is because the structure of a commercial roof doesn’t need to be reinforced or supported to accommodate a sloping surface.

However, this also means that flat roofs can be susceptible to ponding water and have lower R-values than sloping roofs. A roofing contractor can improve these issues by adding tapered insulation and creating a positive drainage system.

Another issue with flat roofs is that they require more maintenance than sloped roofs. This is due to the amount of water and debris that can build up on these types of roofs. Commercial roofing contractors must perform regular inspections and perform water and debris cleanup. Additionally, businesses with flat roofs need to invest in a regular roof coating program to prolong the life of their commercial roofing systems.

Low-Sloped Roofs

In the roofing world, slope (or pitch) is defined as how much a roof rises vertically for every 12 inches of horizontal length. Most commercial buildings are built with low-slope roofs because they are less expensive than steep-sloped roofs and are more practical for areas that receive frequent rainfall. They are also easier to keep up with maintenance.

However, while they may seem more affordable than steep-sloped roofs, they are prone to water damage and require regular maintenance. In order to prevent pooling and other issues, a commercial low-sloped roof will need a drainage system that can handle the heavy rains that come with most climates.

Typically, drains are located at the low points of the roof, called valleys, where two different slopes meet. They are connected to interior and exterior drains that help to prevent clogs, and they often have an overflow scupper on the outside of the roof that can take on additional water runoff in case of an emergency.

Another issue that can occur with low-sloped roofs is the formation of moss and algae, which can be a serious problem for both the integrity of the roofing material and the structure of the building below. To combat this, the most effective commercial roofs will include a waterproofing membrane, insulation layers, and a protective covering that will keep the roof safe from environmental elements.

There are many materials that can be used on commercial low-sloped roofs, including the most popular flat roofing material, EPDM. Other options include PVC, TPO, and metal roofs. The latter are more common on commercial buildings, and they can be either screw-down or standing seam systems. All of these options can provide a durable and energy-efficient solution to a business’s needs.

No matter what type of roof a business has, it is crucial that they regularly have it maintained by a professional roofing contractor. Whether it is for safety reasons, to avoid costly repairs due to improper work practices, or to ensure that warranties are not voided, working with the experts can protect any property investment.

Metal Roofs

Metal roofs are known for their durability, longevity, and energy efficiency. They are also fire-resistant and resistant to wind, making them a great choice for areas that are prone to severe weather conditions. Many commercial properties that choose a metal roof find it’s worth the upfront cost, given its long-term benefits.

There are several types of commercial metal roofing, each with its own unique qualities. Some are more versatile than others, making them better suited to different environments and building types.

Standing seam metal roofs are the most common option for commercial buildings. They can be built on low-sloped or flat roofs, and they come in both rigid and corrugated designs. Unlike other types of commercial roofing, the panels of a standing seam roof are seamed together rather than being attached to the rest of the structure. This creates a stronger, more durable roof that’s less likely to be damaged by debris or workers’ boots. Standing seam metal roofs can be a more expensive option than other commercial roofing options, but they offer superior insulation and are more durable than shingles or tar and gravel roofs.

A corrugated metal roof is another great option for commercial roofs. Often made from aluminum or zinc, this type of roofing is highly durable and can last for decades with minimal maintenance. Its light-colored surface reflects a significant amount of the sun’s heat, which reduces cooling costs for your business.

For a more decorative touch, you can opt for a shingle-style metal roof. These roofs are available in a wide range of colors and styles to match any building’s aesthetic, while still offering all the benefits of a metal roof. Some shingles are designed to look like traditional clay or concrete tiles, adding a sense of elegance and style that can boost the curb appeal of your building. Metal shingles are also more energy-efficient than traditional asphalt shingles, making them an excellent choice for businesses that want to cut down on their energy costs.

Asphalt Shingles

Asphalt shingles are often associated with residential roofing and, as such, may be a surprise to learn that they can also serve as a commercial roof material. However, asphalt shingles are actually one of the most popular roofing materials used on commercial buildings, as they are cost effective and can protect a building for decades with minimal maintenance.

Shingles are constructed from a fiberglass mat base layer that is coated in refined weather resistant asphalt and holds a variety of pigmented mineral granules that provide the appearance of color for the roofing system. These granules reflect the sun’s rays and shed water and debris from the roof, helping to extend the life of the roofing system. Shingles are available in many different styles and colors, making it easy to find the right look for a particular business.

In addition to offering a wide variety of appearance options, asphalt shingles are also extremely versatile. They are available in a range of thicknesses and warranty protection levels, and can be installed on nearly any type of roof. They are also lighter than other roofing options, which can help reduce labor costs during installation and maintenance.

Choosing an asphalt shingle roof for your business is also an excellent way to save money on your utility bills, as shingles are designed to insulate the building and keep it cool. They are also a great choice for businesses that deal with flammable products, as shingle roofs are more fire resistant than other roofing materials.

There are four main types of asphalt shingle: strip shingles, architectural shingles, wood shakes, and slate tiles. Strip shingles are the most common and feature a flat, single-layer design that offers an imitation of slate. They are less expensive than other shingles, but do not offer the same level of durability or warranty protection. Architectural shingles are made to resemble more high-end roofing materials, such as slate or cedar shakes, and are usually thicker than strip shingles. They are also typically a little more expensive, but they are still a budget friendly roofing option for many businesses and multifamily homes.