If you’re a business owner, one of your top priorities is keeping your property in good condition. One of the essential parts of your property is the roof. It keeps you and your employees and customers safe and dry, and it protects your building and its contents from the weather. The wrong roof can be a major headache and expense, so choosing the right one for your business is essential.
Materials
There are many different types of roofs available. It is essential to understand the lifespan, price, and ease of maintenance. Understanding these factors will allow you to get the most out of your roof.
PVC Roofing
PVC roofing is a viable option if your business has a flat roof. PVC roofing, like metal, is a long-lasting and robust material that a business may use in commercial construction. It’s more expensive than many other materials, but the benefits outweigh the cost.
EPDM Roofing
EPDM roofing (also known as the “rubber roof”) is another option for flat roofs and is less expensive than PVC or metal. EPDM rubber is durable and long-lasting, making it a good choice for businesses that want a roof that will last without breaking the bank.
Rubber roofing is inexpensive to install and maintain. It is also very lightweight, making it a good choice for less structurally sound buildings.
Asphalt Roofing
Asphalt is one of the most common types of roofing because it’s affordable, durable, and easy to install. Their affordability and durability make them a trendy material for residential areas. Asphalt roofs can last 20-30 years with proper maintenance, making them an excellent option for budget-conscious businesses. They are convenient when you have a sloped roof, as they are installed in shingles.
Metal Roofing
If you are looking for a roof that will last, metal roofing is your answer. Metal is the most expensive roofing material to install since it requires a skilled installation. However, metal roofing has the most extended lifespan, lasting between 20 and 50 years. Metal is a very long-lasting substance that is resistant to single-ply roof cracks. However, metal roofs can be susceptible to leaks around the seams and roof edges.
TPO Roofing
TPO roofing is one of the most popular commercial roofing materials. A TPO roof is not only cost-effective, but it also has a decently long lifespan of 10 to 20 years. These white-coat roofs, like PVC roofs, have all of the same energy-conserving benefits.
Factors to Consider While Shopping for Your Material
Shopping for suitable material for your business can be a challenging task. You have to consider the cost of the installation of your material and labor cost, the weather in your area, and the type of roof you currently have. It is essential to contact a professional to help you make the best decision for your business.
Look at Your Existing Roof
The first thing to consider is the present condition of your roof. Because different roof systems require varying amounts of wall space, you should determine the amount of roof area required in conjunction with any other structures on the property. Existing structures s like air conditioners vents, and you should also consider skylights since they might influence the installation and upkeep.
Climate
You’re more likely to experience extreme weather conditions like high winds and hurricanes in Florida. When choosing a roofing system you should consider these factors because some roofs are equipped to handle these conditions than others. For example, impact-resistant shingles are a good option for protecting against flying debris during a hurricane.
Location
Florida and wildlife are synonymous. It is crucial to consider the location of your business when choosing a roof because some roofs can be more susceptible to animals than others. For example, if your business is located in an area with many trees, you might want to consider a metal roof because it is less likely to be damaged by falling branches.
The Type of Business
Another thing to think about is the type of business conducted in your building. A storage warehouse, for example, will require very different heating and cooling requirements than a retail clothing store.
An energy-efficient system is appropriate when it comes to a retail business, where consumers expect a pleasant temperature.
Because restaurants or manufacturers are housed in buildings with ventilation and exhaust systems and the ability to resist damage from pollutants and chemicals, they require a roofing system with which to manage these demands.
Style
You should also consider the style of your roof. Style can affect how many customers may come to your business. Depending on the local culture, some roofing designs and materials may look more inviting than others.
Cost vs. Value
When it comes to the cost of a roof, you get what you pay for. Roofs made from higher-quality materials will last longer and require less maintenance than those made from lower-quality materials. However, it does not imply that you must spend a fortune to acquire a decent roof.
Environmental impact
Another crucial detail to consider is the environmental effect of commercial roofing systems. One option is for your be recycled at the end of its life. An option is to have highly reflective, or can accommodate more insulation or photovoltaic panels are all “green” characteristics to search for in commercial property owners.
Look out for certifications like LEED or Energy Star, as they may offer significant incentives to “go green” as this will save you lots of money.
How to Maintain Your New Roof
Once you’ve decided on the best roof for your business, it’s essential to know how to maintain it properly. Business owners should inspect roofs at least once a year and after any severe weather event. It’s also essential to clear away any debris, such as leaves or branches, which can clog drains and gutters and lead to more significant problems down the line.
In general, if you have a flat roof, it is vital to check for any pools of water. Pools of water will weaken the roofing material and cause leaks.
If you have a metal roof, you’ll need to check for rust regularly and ensure that any sealants are in good condition. Metal roofing can easily dent, which can create a leak. Make sure there aren’t any dents or other damage that might jeopardize the integrity of your roof.
Asphalt shingles need to be checked for curling, cracking, or missing granules, which can lead to leaks. They also should be checked for moss and mold growth. It is imperative to check your gutters and a water backup, which will cause much damage to your business.
Rubber roofs are straightforward to maintain, but they are susceptible to the harsh UV rays of the sun and ozone damage. They can blister in hot climates like Florida. To keep your rubber roof looking new, you may want to apply a water repellent treatment.
Understand Your Local Laws and Ordinances
Before you decide on the roofing material for your business, it’s essential to understand any local laws or ordinances. This may restrict what type of roofing you can install.
Contact us for a free quote!
If you are shopping around for a new roof for your business, feel free to contact us for a free quote! We will be happy to answer any questions that you may have. We service the entirety of Brevard County, and we guarantee all of our work with solid warranties. We’ll provide advice on what we can do and how we may improve your company’s value and appearance. Not only that, but we can also ensure that everything is installed by some of the best contractors in town.
Do you want to learn more about our roofing services? Give East Coast Roofing a call today!