Your warehouse roofing needs to protect your building from the elements. There are several roofing choices available for warehouses. Some are widely-used, others are expensive. The right roofing will protect your investment and add to the value and appearance of the building.
Warehouse Roofing Types
When picking roofing materials, look for materials with a track record of longevity. Certain roofing materials endure producing a lengthy lifespan. Other roofs have the potential to decrease operating costs. There are several factors to consider when picking roofing materials. Since small leaks can cause major interior water damage and big money losses, the initial investment in a watertight warehouse roof is worth the research and cost. Proven roofing materials last decades, reducing the likelihood of the hefty expense of a roof replacement. The different types of warehouse roofing you should consider include:
1. Liquid Applied Roofing
Liquid-applied roofing is custom-fitted and can be painted over existing roofing structures. The liquid can be hot or cold polymer-modified asphalt or single-component asphalt. Coal tar-extended urethane and two-component urethane elastomer are also used.
Before the liquid membrane is applied, the roof’s substrate has to be rigorously prepared. It needs to be thoroughly dry and all dust particles must be eliminated from the substrate surface. Any cracks need to be patched up. Substrate preparation starts with the seamless and uniform application of liquid materials.
The liquid coating efficiently fills in cracks, gaps, and other flaws, as it is applied. The roof’s water-resistant protection starts right away presenting any possible water damage. Liquid-applied roofing can be applied to existing roofing structures, making it a popular option. Other beneficial features of this roofing include coatings being highly elastic, which allows them to be applied to contoured surfaces. There are also disadvantages to be aware of. These systems have low permeability and require uniform thickness. Highly sensitive coatings, like acrylic and silicone, may be used, but these can be problematic for roofing installers in terms of labor and installation. You can only apply these materials under certain weather conditions and installation is pricey. Acrylic coatings are ideal for low-slope roofing with the positive flow and minor pooling. They also can withstand the impacts of foot traffic, dust erosion, and impacts.
2. Metal Roofing
Metal roofs are known for their longevity, lasting for 100 years or more. Metal roofing has a solid reputation for protecting inventory for far longer than the life of the inventory itself but they are a very expensive option. You also need to have a roof with a slope for metal roofing to last. Steel, aluminum, and zinc are the top metals used. These long-lasting roofs are also available in three forms: look-alikes, tiles, and sheets. Metal roofing is a highly attractive option because of its heat resistance, impact resistance, and ability to withstand high winds.
3. Asphalt Shingles
Shingles are the most commonly used roofing system in the US. These systems do have several benefits. As a widely used material, most contractors are experienced with shingle installation. They are also affordable and can be customized to fit any roof. Asphalt shingles also have some disadvantages. The lifespan is typically only 20 years and durability gets worse under stress. Adverse weather is one factor that can weaken asphalt shingles.
4. Single Ply Membrane Systems
If you are looking for reliability, low maintenance, and an extended lifespan, single ply membrane roofing systems are a top choice. Single ply roofing membranes are constructed from flexible sheets of compounded synthetic materials. They have a reputation of being strong and highly flexible. The prefabricated sheets of singly ply roofing membrane systems are manufactured with consistent quality and provide versatility in methods of attachment.
They can also be applied in a variety of ways, making them a popular choice for roofing contractors. Single-ply membranes are available as thermosets and thermoplastics. Polymers like Ethylene Propylene Diene Monomer (EPDM) are used in thermoset membranes. Thermoset membranes are known for their ability to withstand the harmful effects of sunlight and the various chemicals often found along the surfaces of commercial rooftops. Thermoplastic membranes such as Polyvinyl chloride (PVC) and thermoplastic polyolefins (TPO) are also manufactured with polymers. These polymers have properties that give them the ability to soften when heated and toughen when cooled.
While cost is an important factor when considering singly ply membranes, there are other elements you should remember. The building’s height, exposure to wind, typical roof traffic, and overall appearance should be given equal weight when you are considering the use of these membranes. A roofing contractor’s reputation will influence the success of any of these systems. When evaluating the costs and reputed lifespan of warehouse roofing materials, also consider the manufacturer’s past performance.
Final Thoughts
We are known for quality workmanship, from roof repairs to roof replacement and roof construction. A commercial roof that is damaged by severe weather or poor maintenance will benefit from the services we have to offer. Our contractors can promptly seal leaks and repair minor damages. Even roofing that has worn over time can be repaired or replaced by our team. We are prepared with the skilled labor and quality roofing materials to fully replace the roof quickly and efficiently. Call us today! Your roofing will be in good hands.
