5 most common Commercial Roofing Systems

Commercial roofing systems are an essential aspect of any commercial building as they provide protection from the elements and improve the overall appearance of the building. There are various types of commercial roofing systems available in the market, each having its own advantages and disadvantages. In this article, we will discuss the 5 most common commercial roofing systems.

1. Built-Up Roof (BUR)

The built-up roof (BUR) is the most traditional type of commercial roofing system and has been used for many years. It is made up of multiple layers of bitumen, which is a type of asphalt, and reinforcement fabrics, usually made of fiberglass. The layers are alternated with hot tar or asphalt and then covered with a top layer of gravel or roofing felt. This type of roofing system is known for its durability and long lifespan, typically lasting 20 to 30 years. However, it can be heavy, making it necessary to reinforce the building's structure, and is not energy-efficient, as it does not reflect sunlight well.

2. Modified Bitumen Roofing

Modified bitumen roofing is a type of asphalt-based roofing system that has been modified to make it more durable and resistant to the elements. It is made up of a single-ply membrane that is either adhered or mechanically attached to the roof deck. This type of roofing system is easy to install, making it ideal for new construction projects, and is also relatively low-cost compared to other roofing options. It is also relatively low-maintenance and has a lifespan of around 15 to 20 years. However, it is not as durable as the built-up roofing system and can be prone to punctures and leaks.

3. Single-Ply Membrane Roofing

Single-ply membrane roofing is a type of roofing system that consists of a single layer of material, typically made of PVC or TPO. The membrane is adhered or mechanically attached to the roof deck and is then sealed around the edges to create a watertight barrier. This type of roofing system is ideal for flat or low-slope roofs as it is flexible and easy to install. It is also relatively lightweight, making it a good option for buildings with limited load-bearing capacity. Single-ply membrane roofing is known for its energy efficiency, as it reflects sunlight, reducing the amount of heat absorbed by the building. However, it can be prone to punctures and leaks and is not as durable as the built-up roofing system.

4. Metal Roofing

Metal roofing is a type of roofing system that consists of panels made of metal, such as steel, aluminum, or copper. The panels are attached to the roof deck and can be overlapped or interlocked, depending on the specific type of metal roofing system. Metal roofing is known for its durability and long lifespan, typically lasting up to 50 years or more. It is also relatively low-maintenance and energy-efficient, as it reflects sunlight. Metal roofing is also fire-resistant, making it a good option for buildings in areas prone to wildfires. However, it can be expensive compared to other roofing options and is not ideal for flat or low-slope roofs.

5. Green Roofing

Green roofing is a type of roofing system that consists of a layer of vegetation and soil on top of the roof deck. The vegetation provides insulation and helps to reduce the amount of heat absorbed by the building, making it energy-efficient. Green roofing also provides a number of environmental benefits, such as reducing stormwater runoff and improving air quality. It is also relatively low-maintenance and can last for many years.