Every roof has its own variation on how long it will last and how well it will hold up to temperature changes, weather conditions and general wear and tear. Understanding your commercial roof’s lifespan can help you protect your company over the years and be prepared for roof replacements. Understanding the various commercial roofing options can also help companies make the best decision when it comes time to choose a new roof for a building.
There are four primary roofing systems that commercial buildings use when building roofs: TPO roof system, EPDM roof system, metal roof system and asphalt roof system.
The TPO roof system offers a commercial building lifespan from 20 to 30 years. The TPO roof system is a flat roof system that can be seen in outdoor shopping centers, warehouses, large office buildings and at factory plants. TPO stands for thermoplastic olefin. This material uses an ethylene propylene rubber to create a durable roofing system. These materials are also resistant to algae and ozone. These shingles are also environmentally friendly and a great choice for companies who care about their impact on the environment. Easy-to-install, these TPO shingles can also be repaired by the company itself once the roof has been installed by professional contractors.
The EPDM roof system has a commercial building lifespan from 20 to 35 years. It is a synthetic rubber roof made out of industrial grade materials. This roofing system can withstand intense weather conditions and temperature changes. It is highly durable and a great option for companies who cannot afford a metal roof system, but still need a roof that can handle inclement weather conditions as well as drastic temperature changes. The EPDM roofing system is also best on buildings with flat roofs.
The metal roof system is the most reliable and durable with a lifespan of 30 to 45 years. The metal roof system works well for all kinds of buildings because it is adaptable, durable and can withstand dramatic weather changes as well as harsh temperature changes. A metal roof with regular maintenance has the potential to last a lifetime. The metal roof system’s durability is based on the roof’s slope and the type of metal used.
The asphalt roofing system will last anywhere from 20 to 45 years. The greater variation on this roofing system depends on the maintenance provided. Steep-sloped roofs are also more durable with asphalt shingles. An asphalt roof system is the cheapest option for most companies, but the quality of the shingles can vary drastically. Companies that choose an asphalt roofing system should choose high-quality asphalt shingles.
When choosing a roofing system, make sure that you set up a consistent commercial roof maintenance and repair schedule. The level of maintenance provided is an important factor to the overall lifespan of your commercial building’s roofing system. Proper installation with a structurally sound frame is also important.
To learn more about commercial roofing options and their lifespan possibilities, contact us.