If you own a business, perhaps you’ve noticed some signs that your roof is starting to show signs of age. Leaks are often the most noticeable sign that your commercial roof needs attention, but they’re not the only symptom of an aging roof.
The lifespan of your commercial property’s roof is something you should think about before the need to replace it becomes urgent. However, there’s no one-size-fits-all answer for how long this type of roof will protect your business.
Commercial roofs vary greatly in their roofing materials and this can impact their lifespans. There are other factors to consider, such as installation, maintenance, and the weather.
Factors That Impact the Lifespan of Your Commercial Roof in Brevard County
The most obvious factor in how long your commercial property’s roof will last is the type of roofing material and its quality. Using budget options for your commercial roof may seem like a good idea at the time since it saves on the upfront cost.
However, if you want your roof to protect your business for years to come, you should make sure you choose quality materials. The installation process is also a factor in how long it will last. If it wasn’t properly installed the first time around, even a long-lasting commercial roof will wear out before its time.
Naturally, the weather in Brevard County is a factor when it comes to commercial roofing. Heavy rain, wind, and hail can take its toll over the years, requiring you to replace the roof sooner rather than later.
You should also consider the last time you had maintenance done on your commercial roof. If it’s been a while, it may have costly damages. You may want to consider replacing the roof to ensure your property is safe and sound for years to come.
Source: performanceroofingsystems.com
Different Types of Commercial Roofs
Your commercial roof will have an average expected lifespan based on the materials that were used in building it. This can be impacted by the factors discussed above.
Here are some of the most common commercial roofing materials used in Brevard County:
Built-Up Roofing (BUR) Membrane
BUR roofs are made of multiple layers on top of a steel decking covered with a water barrier. The water barrier is covered with layers of insulation, then the roofing membrane and a final layer of gravel surface. The number of layers can vary from manufacturer to manufacturer, though they are all bound together with tar. It’s complex and sturdy, making it a popular choice for commercial roofs.
Metal Roofing
Metal roofing is ideal for commercial roofs that have some sort of slope, but you can get one for a flat roof. They are incredibly durable, plus they are fire-resistant and sustainable. With so many different kinds of metal roofs, these can easily fit the aesthetic of your commercial property while giving it extra strength and protection. It does cost more, making it a bigger investment, but it lasts long and requires less maintenance.
Modified Bitumen
Source: garlanduk.com
Modified bitumen is another layered style of commercial roofing. It consists of five layers of asphalt bound together with polyester or fiberglass and then topped off with asphalt. It is a very strong option for flat commercial roofs, especially those that will get lots of foot traffic.
TPO
Thermoplastic membranes and polyvinyl chloride membranes are lightweight options that are often selected for commercial properties due to their ease of installation and ability to handle inclement weather. TPO roofs are UV-resistant, fire-resistant, wind-resistant, and impact-resistant, an ideal combination of strength for hurricane-prone areas. If you own a restaurant, TPO roofing is an excellent choice because it is able to withstand damage from most of the chemicals that make their way into the ventilation system.
EPDM
Thermoset membrane (EPDM) roofs are composed of single-ply rubber, making it strong and durable. It can also resist UV light and has a reflective surface, helping your business become more energy efficient.
There are many other kinds of commercial roofing materials, and often what will impact your decision in commercial roofing will be the shape of the roof. Flat roofs are most common in commercial settings but some businesses have low-sloped or pitched roofs.
How Long Will Each of These Commercial Roofs Last?
Source: trucocoatings.com
When you check the life expectancy of different types of commercial roofs, it’s important to know that this is just an estimate. You will need to factor in how it was installed when it was installed, the quality of the materials used, if it was properly maintained, and whether or not any weather events may have caused damage.
In other words, you can’t just install a commercial roof and expect that it will last as long as the average expectancy. You might not be able to control the weather, but you can choose a reliable roofing contractor, choose quality materials, and make sure you keep up with maintenance while you own your commercial property.
For BUR roofs, this means 20 to 30 years before you will need a replacement. Metal roofing can last anywhere from 30 to 45 years, which is the longest duration of commercial materials. Modified bitumen roofs last 20 years on average, TPO lasts 20 to 30 years, and EPDM lasts 20 to 35 years.
You can use these estimates to help you decide on your new commercial roof. You’ll also want to weigh all the other factors into your decision. Keep in mind that if you care for your commercial roof, it may last even longer than you anticipate.
If you aren’t sure if your commercial roof needs to be replaced, contact a company that specializes in commercial roofing in Brevard County. After an inspection, you’ll be able to make the best decision for your property to ensure it stays protected and operational through the years.
