Commercial Roofing Services

Adams Roofing proudly provides both residential and commercial roofing services for our clients. No matter how big or small your business is, we’re ready to help you find the best roofing solution for your commercial property.

When it comes to commercial roofing versus residential roofing, the former tends to lean towards function over form and practicality over looks. These roofs are often built for properties such as warehouses, businesses, or other large commercial structures. They’re designed to protect the occupants and contents inside from outside elements like rain and snow. Without a well-built roof, inclement weather can cause daily operations to come to a screeching halt.

Though they work like residential roofs to protect the interior of a property from the elements, they greatly differ in regards to the materials used for construction. The size of a commercial roof is often much bigger than a residential roof as well.

Most commercial roofs you see are built flat, but some may have more complicated components, such as slopes, curves, and penetrations that make their installation much more difficult. This also makes their regular upkeep more challenging.

Materials for Commercial Roofs

There are several types of commercial roofing materials commonly used for construction, including the following:

Metal Roofing: This type of roofing is extremely durable, with an expected lifespan of 40 to 60 years. The metals used for roofing are typically corrugated galvanized steel, tile sheets, copper, coated or stainless steel, aluminum, or a mix of aluminum, zinc, and tin.

It boasts an attractive finish, incredible fire resistance, and is far more sustainable than many other roofing options. Its major flaw is being susceptible to corrosion, which is why many metal roofs are coated with protective surface layers to defend against moisture, pollution, exposure, and other environmental hazards.

Built-Up Roofing (BUR) Membrane: Alternating layers of tar and gravel form a built-up roof. Depending on how many layers you want, your roof will have extra durability, but at a higher cost. However, built-up roofing is one of the oldest and most flexible roof types, which makes it quite inexpensive and easy to repair. You can expect this type of construction to last for roughly 20 years or more with proper care.

Its seamless design holds up well to foot traffic but requires a very stable understructure to support weight and movement vibrations.

Built-up roofing is UV-resistant and can be coated to help reflect heat. Unfortunately, BUR has one of the shortest lifespans, and identifying the source of leaks can become more challenging as the roof ages.

Green Roofing: If you want your commercial property to sport an aesthetically-pleasing, sophisticated roof, then we suggest green roofing. This construction boasts a tough waterproof membrane that is completely covered by live green plants. Its beautiful appearance contributes to not only improved air quality but also provides a lovely space for your employees to relax in and enjoy.

These roofs can last 30 to 50 years with proper care, but their ongoing maintenance can be difficult to sustain. However, extensive upkeep will protect your property from the elements, improve the looks of your building, and may even provide you with utility and government incentives. Most green roofs require complex water and drainage systems as well as climate control capabilities.

Spray-On Roofing: This roofing material, also known as Spray Polyurethane Foam (SPF), starts as a liquid spray that morphs into an expanding foam before hardening into a solid, sturdy layer. It must be applied on top of existing roofing but it provides an eco-friendly option for strengthening your roof. It provides a waterproof, insulating surface that can be used in nearly any climate.

Best of all, it has an expected lifespan of nearly 50 years when installed correctly and inspected once or twice a year for damage. Its only real downside is having a small installation window dictated by favorable weather conditions. In other words, you won’t be able to apply this roof material unless there is absolutely no water, ice, or snow to interfere with the process.

Themoset EPDM Roof Membrane: Ethylene Propylene Diene Terpolymer (EPDM) is a highly durable synthetic rubber membrane that comes in black and white rolls. It is commonly known as Thermoset roofing and offers fantastic resistance to sunlight and pollution. It’s incredibly easy to install and boasts a long lifespan and impressive versatility.

However, it’s not exactly an aesthetically-pleasing material to use. Its appearance is rather bland, and unfortunately, it can also puncture easily, being highly susceptible to threats like falling debris or even people walking on top of it.

Shingle Roofing: Some businesses prefer the look of typical residential shingle roofing, especially if their property has steep roof lines. Shingle materials range from asphalt, slate, plastic, ceramic, and many more. Because this material is relatively common and easy to install, it serves as a highly affordable, versatile roofing option.

However, depending on the material used for its shingles, your roof’s lifespan may not be as long as that of other commercial roofing options. If your building happens to be located in a shaded area, your shingles might also fall victim to mildew and moss.

Which Roof is Best for My Business?

To determine which type of roofing is best for your business, consider aspects such as whether your roof is visible or walked-on. You’ll also need to figure out if the roof will be regularly exposed to hazards like high wind, extreme temperatures, or substances like acid, chemicals, or grease.

Obviously, the price point is a major consideration, but be sure to factor in not only the installation but the cost of upkeep and maintenance for the duration of its lifespan. Energy costs are another crucial factor to consider, especially if you live in either an extremely cold or extremely warm climate.

The experts at Adams Roofing will help you determine what roofing material best suits your business. We’ll listen to your requests and work to create a roofing design solution that fits both your budget and your needs.