From Shingles to Rubber

Choosing a commercial roofing material isn't just about finding a material that will meet the existing local building codes and requirements. It requires weighing the many different factors that may affect the safety, performance, durability, and appearance of your roof.

To ensure you build the right roof for your commercial building, consider these critical factors when selecting your roofing material.

What Type Of Roof You Want To Build

All roofing systems available for commercial buildings fall into three main categories: flat, low-slope, and steep-slope. Each is specified according to its slope range. 

The type of roof you should build depends on your roofing goals. If you want to minimize your commercial heating and cooling costs by reducing the amount of attic space you have, lean towards a flat roof or low-slope roof.

When selecting a roofing material for your commercial building, keep in mind that some are specified for certain roof types. If you're going to build a commercial flat roof, for example, choose a roofing material that's designed for that specific type of roof.

Which Climate Zone Your Business Is In

A commercial roof's primary function is to protect the building and its occupants from outside elements, so it is imperative to match it to your climate zone. Climate zones are specific areas or regions of a country that exhibit distinct climate patterns. Knowing which climatic zone your business falls within is crucial to ensure you choose the right commercial roof. 

For instance, if your business is located in a region with a cold climate, you'll need to choose a roofing material that can insulate your building against the low temperatures outside.  With such a roof, you can keep employees, customers, and other building users warm and comfortable without spending too much on heating bills. 

What Maintenance Is Required

As a commercial facility manager or owner, you'll want to keep your roof in tiptop condition while spending the least amount of time and money maintaining it. While it's true that some roofs require a higher level of care and upkeep than others, no roof is entirely maintenance-free. 

Before choosing a particular roof type for your commercial building, find out what maintenance it will require so you can establish if you can keep up with its maintenance requirements. If you want to save time and money on your roof maintenance, use a roofing material that will require relatively low maintenance over time.

The prices of commercial roofing materials can vary greatly. While you might want to save money on your commercial roof construction, price shouldn't be the single factor you consider when choosing a roofing material for your commercial building or facility. If you need someone to help you make an informed roofing choice, contact a local commercial roofing contractor.