Keeping one’s business free from water damage is a bit more difficult than most people realize, especially if the roof is the typical flat or low-sloped kind. One reason for this is that most flat-roofed structures use asphalt in a roofing solution known as BUR or built-up roofing. BUR has several advantages over other types of roofing solutions provided it is installed by experienced Commercial Roofing Contractors. For instance, a BUR roof can be easily repaired by adding additional layers over the damaged one. Some care will be required because too many layers can place a strain on the underlying structural support. Another benefit of BUR is that it is budget friendly.
There are several alternatives to the traditional commercial roofing solution including the use of metals and membranes made from polymers. One such membrane is TPO (thermoplastic polyolefin). TPO is placed in long sheets, which gives the material excellent coverage. To ensure that the roof seals properly, each seam is welded with automated tools. Any areas around details such as vents or flashing will be sealed by hand.
Some Commercial Roofing Contractors prefer other membranes such as EPDM (ethylene propylene diene terpolymer). EPDM is a synthetic rubber material that provides excellent protection and the option of reflecting sunlight away from the building. This is possible because EPDM can have a white colored top. Reflecting the sunlight can reduce heat buildup under the roof, and this could extend its service life.
The use of metal for low sloped roofs will require special skills because the structure needs to shed water to avoid pooling. Selecting the right metal is also crucial to avoid corrosion issues. Keep in mind that the typical flat roof may not have enough slope for this type of covering and may need additional support. However, covering a roof with copper could prevent a lot of future problems because copper does not corrode like steel does. It simply develops a green patina that gives the structure a unique appearance. Plus, the use of copper for flashing and other details makes the whole roof much more reliable. Learn more about commercial roofing options from the experts at Arrowroofingandsiding.com.
