Roof contracting is big business in America, pulling in a staggering $48 billion per year in revenue. While most people think of residential roofing when they imagine roof contractor work, a big chunk of a contractor’s business actually comes from commercial projects.
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Therein lies the subject of our post!
Below, we’ll share four of the most popular types of commercial roofing you’ll find used on non-residential job sites. Each of these roofs offers unique advantages and drawbacks, many of which we’ll go over.
Keep reading to discover more!
- Metal Roofing
Metal roofing has picked up a lot of traction in the commercial sector and is even making waves in residential housing. The reason why metal is causing such a stir is that this type of commercial roofing material is extremely durable, offers easy irrigation, and lasts a staggering 60 years!
Compare that to the 20-year lifespan a standard, residential shingle roof might offer.
The drawback to metal roofs is that they can corrode, particularly in climates that have a lot of salt in the air.
- Tar and Gravel Roofing
If you’re a lover of the “classics,” you’d be hard-pressed to find a roofing type with more legacy behind it than the standard tar and gravel roof. Tar and gravel roofing (also called build-up or BUR roofing) is constructed by alternating layers of gravel and tar on a building’s surface.
The more layers your roof features, the sturdier and more expensive it’ll be.
BUR roofs have a short lifespan (roughly 20 years). They are, however, easy to apply and repair.
- Shingle Roofing
While shingle roofing has carved out a niche for itself in the residential market, it also has a popular presence in commercial projects.
Shingle roofs are celebrated commercial roof options because they are affordable and easy to install. They also look pleasing to the eye and can be made up of a variety of materials.
Lifespans on shingle roofs aren’t particularly impressive. Furthermore, wet climates will see a lot of moss buildup on shingles, which will require maintenance money to remedy.
- Green Roofing
If you’re an environmental enthusiast and want your commercial building to reflect your sensibilities, give green roofing a whirl. Green roofing is simple in that it consists of a waterproof base layer that is then covered in plants.
Combine that setup with a solar panel installation provided by hproofingpro.com or other local experts, and your roof will truly be an eco-masterpiece to behold.
Before you get too excited about green roofing, know that this roof requires plenty of maintenance, seeing as how the plants sitting on its surface are alive and need care.
Types of Commercial Roofing Go Beyond What We’ve Mentioned
Lovers of options can rejoice in the fact that the four types of commercial roofing we’ve shared scratch the surface of what’s available. So if you’re not moved by the roofing we’ve shared, talk to a local expert to discover what else is available to you.
We’re certain that no matter what your commercial interests are, there are commercial roofing materials that’ll be a perfect fit.
Curious to learn more about roofs? If you are, explore additional real estate content on our blog.
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