What is the Best Commercial Roofing System?

Choosing the right commercial roofing for your specific project is essential to ensure its longevity and suitability for your individual requirements. The material you select is the first stage in picking the correct roof for your premises.

In this guide, we explore the different types of roof materials available to answer the question ‘what is the best commercial roofing material?’ for your project.

The Main Types of Commercial Roofing Materials

Metal Roofing

Metal roofing systems are constructed from a range of different materials, including aluminium, steel, zinc and copper, all of which are used on commercial and industrial buildings. Metal roofs have a long lifespan and low maintenance requirements, with materials like copper and zinc developing protective patinas over time. When combined with insulation, they can also help to improve energy efficiency for your property. For more information, have a look at our blog on types of metal roofing.

Single-Ply Roofing

Single-ply roofing is a flexible, waterproof membrane that is installed in a single layer over a flat or low-pitched roof. This material is lightweight and relatively quick to install by trained roofing specialists compared to other systems and has excellent weatherproofing properties. This makes single-ply a popular choice for commercial flat roofing systems, including over live environments with minimal disruption.

Ethylene Propylene Diene Monomer (EPDM)

EPDM is a synthetic roofing material made from a rubber membrane. This material is most commonly used for flat roof systems and is highly resistant to extreme weather, ozone and UV exposure. EPDM has a long service life and is flexible in changing temperatures, reducing the need for seasonal repairs.

Polyvinyl Chloride (PVC)

PVC is a thermoplastic membrane that is reinforced with fibreglass or polyester to improve its strength. It is a single-ply roofing material that has a high degree of resistance to chemicals, fire and grease, making it a popular choice for industrial buildings and food manufacturing plants.

Thermoplastic Polyolefin (TPO)

TPO is also a single-ply membrane made from thermoplastics, in this case rubber compounds combined with polypropylene. This material has a good level of durability and a high reflectivity, which helps to reduce heat absorption into the building below. TPO is a common option for commercial roofing, as it is puncture- and microbe-resistant.

Bituminous Membrane

Modified bitumen combines an asphalt roofing system with polymer modifiers and multiple layers to create flexible and durable roofing, which includes built-up roofing systems that are used for large commercial and industrial structures. This material is often installed on commercial roofs that are flat and low-sloped and may be torch- or cold-applied or can be self-adhesive. Bituminous membrane is highly waterproof and is suitable for occasional maintenance foot traffic when correctly specified.

Green Roofing

Green roofing is a type of eco-friendly roofing system where vegetation is grown on top of the building above a waterproofing and drainage system, providing effective insulation and improving building sustainability. Green roofs are increasingly popular as they are attractive, improve biodiversity and can easily be combined with renewable energy methods, such as solar panel roofing structures.

Liquid Coating

Liquid coating is a liquid-applied waterproof membrane that is applied directly over an existing roof system. This membrane extends the lifespan of the existing roof by forming a seamless, flexible barrier that offers protection against UV exposure, weathering and water ingress. This solution is only suitable where the existing roof is structurally sound and can delay an immediate need for roof replacement.

How to Choose the Best Roofing System for Your Commercial Property

– Building purpose: Different buildings will have varying requirements. For example, varying access and insulation requirements for buildings.
– Climate and weather exposure: Local weather conditions, such as how cold or hot the area gets, could influence which roof is best for your requirements.
– Roof design: The existing roof structure, deck type, pitch, drainage arrangement and load-bearing capacity will influence which systems are suitable.
– Thermal performance: This factor is more of a priority than ever before for businesses with Net Zero requiring a significant reduction in carbon emissions.
– Lifecycle costs: While some roofing may have a higher up-front cost, a longer lifecycle can lead to a better return on investment.
– Safety and compliance: If your business needs to meet specific building regulations for fire safety, this should be a factor in your decision.
– Condition of the existing deck: A structurally sound roof deck is important, particularly when installing heavier roofing systems.
– Compatibility with solar PV: Installation of solar panels can support businesses working towards their Net Zero objectives while reducing on-site electricity generation costs.
– Drainage performance: Effective drainage is a key consideration to minimise standing water, which can accelerate deterioration of some roofing materials.
– Disruption to occupants: A roofing system that needs to be installed over a live environment, such as schools and hospitals, will often require minimal noise and downtime.
– Maintenance access: Accessibility to HVAC systems, solar panels or other building services should be a consideration when selecting the right roofing system for your commercial property.

Commercial Roofing at Central Group

Central Group has over 40 years of experience as a commercial roofing contractor, delivering quality roofing solutions for a wide range of projects. We operate nationwide, with more than 700 vetted contractors available to complete your roofing project within your specified timeframe.

If you are considering replacing or installing commercial roofing on your property, Central Group provides commercial roofing solutions tailored to the requirements of businesses across a wide range of sectors. Contact us today on 01432 354 000 or email us at info@centralroofing.co.uk to discuss your requirements.