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When considering commercial property, the primary aspect that comes to mind is its intended use. Commercial property typically refers to real estate that is rented for business purposes and not for residential living. There are various types of commercial properties, including office buildings, shopping centers, hotels, restaurants, schools, and warehouses, depending on the location and intended use.
For instance, if you are planning to construct a new hotel in your city, it is crucial to assess all aspects of the building, such as plumbing and roofing systems, before investing time and money into the project. It is essential to avoid unexpected costs of repairs and maintenance by ensuring that the structure is resistant and durable. Therefore, it is always advisable to conduct thorough research before undertaking any project, regardless of its size. If you need help deciding on the proper roof for your property, call the best commercial roofing contractor in Franklin Ga, at (470) 686-7887.
What is Commercial Roofing?
When we refer to commercial roofing, we're talking about the complete structural covering of a building. It's not just what you see above your head. Commercial roofing serves many purposes within a building, including safeguarding against water damage, protecting the building's occupants, providing insulation, and keeping unauthorized individuals out.
The commercial roofing system consists of various components, such as roofing, flashing, insulation, weatherproofing, and other accessories. The roofing system you choose will depend on several factors, such as the building's slope, the climatic conditions in your area, and the building's structure.
Why Do You Need to Replace Your Commercial Roof?
If you’re in the process of replacing an old commercial roof, you may be wondering if the roof is actually in need of replacement. If you’re wondering why you should replace your commercial roof, there are a few signs that could indicate you need a new roofing system.
Cracked or curling shingles: One of the first signs that your commercial roof may need replacing is if you notice that the roof shingles are curling or are cracked and broken. A roof shingle’s lifespan is about 20 years, which means that if your roof was constructed before 1995, there’s a good chance you have an unserviceable roof. Cracked or curling shingles are a sign that your roof is experiencing a lot of stress, which could lead to water damage inside the building.
Roofing material is more than 25 years old: Another factor to consider when deciding whether or not you need a new roof is the age of the roofing material itself. Most roofing materials have a lifespan of about 25 years, so if your commercial roof was constructed before 1990, it may be time to start considering a replacement.
Types of Roofing for Commercial Property
If you’re in the process of replacing your commercial roof, you may be wondering which type of commercial roofing is best for your property. There are several types of commercial roofing systems available, each with its own set of advantages and disadvantages.
Asphalt Shingles: While asphalt shingles aren’t the flashiest roofing system available, they are one of the most commonly used commercial roofing systems. Asphalt shingles are inexpensive, easy to install, and require little maintenance. If you select asphalt shingles as your commercial roofing system, you’ll want to make sure your roofer installs special underlayment materials to prevent the shingles from being heated by the sun.
Metal Roofing: If you’re looking for a commercial roofing system that will last for many years, metal roofing may be a great option for you. While metal roofs are typically more expensive than asphalt shingles, they can last up to 50 years or more, which means that you’ll save money in the long run with reduced repair and maintenance costs.
Fire-Resistant Roofing Material
If you’re constructing a commercial property that is likely to be targeted by fire, fire-resistant roofing material is worth considering. Fire-resistant commercial roofing materials are specially formulated to withstand extremely high temperatures and are typically made from special materials such as modified asphalt, mineral roofing, and rubber roofing. Some roofing materials may be considered fire-resistant but not fire-proof, which means that they should be able to withstand a fire, but not indefinitely.
Modified asphalt roofing is one of the most common fire-resistant commercial roofing materials available. Unlike traditional asphalt shingles, modified asphalt shingles contain an added mineral granule that makes them more fire-resistant. While modified asphalt shingles may be more expensive than standard ones, they can save you money in the long run.
PVC Roofing Material
Polyvinyl chloride (PVC) roofing is one of the most common commercial roofing materials available, but it’s also one of the least fire-resistant commercial roofing materials. If you select PVC roofing, it’s important to have proper fire sprinkler systems installed to protect your building from fire damage. While PVC roofing may not be the best option for properties located in high-risk areas, it is a popular commercial roofing material for low-risk areas.
Rubber roofs are typically found on barns and agricultural buildings. While rubber roofs are not commonly used on commercial properties, they are a fire-resistant commercial roofing material. Rubber roofs are extremely durable and can withstand the elements for many years.
TPO Roofing Material
TPO roofing is another common commercial roofing material that is fire-resistant. TPO roofing is a synthetic rubber-like material designed to withstand extreme temperatures. While TPO roofing is not a common commercial roofing material, it’s worth considering if you’re looking for a fire-resistant commercial roofing system.
Mineral roofing is a common commercial roofing material that is fire-resistant. Mineral roofing is typically made from clay or some other type of natural rock and is commonly used in regions that experience high levels of rainfall. While mineral roofing is a popular commercial roofing material, it can be difficult to install in areas with heavy rainfall.
Metal Roofing
If you’re looking for a commercial roofing system that is both durable and fire-resistant, metal roofing may be the best option for you. While metal roofing is more expensive than many other commercial roofing materials, it can save you money in the long run with reduced maintenance costs.
Galvanized Steel: Galvanized steel is a common commercial roofing material that is both durable and fire-resistant. While galvanized steel is one of the most popular commercial roofing materials, it is also one of the heaviest roofing materials available. If you select galvanized steel roofing, you’ll likely need a strong support structure to handle the weight of the roof.
Conclusion
When it comes to commercial roofing, it’s important to select a roofing system that is durable, functional, and attractive. When selecting a commercial roofing system, it’s important to consider all of these factors as well as your budget. Fortunately, commercial roofing materials have come a long way in recent years, and there are numerous roofing systems available that are durable, attractive, and energy-efficient.
When you’re in the process of replacing your commercial roof, it’s important to do your research and select a commercial roofing system that will suit your property’s needs for years to come.