commercial roofing types
commercial roofing
choosing the right roof for your business
Barvite Roofing installs commercial roofs as well as residential. Our experience and expertise will assure that you have the right option for your business. We consider cost, energy efficiency and longevity when consulting with you on your new commercial roof.
types of commercial roofing
Thermoplastic
Thermoplastic roof systems include TPO and PVC systems and a highly reflective membranes.
Thermoplastic roof systems are lightweight systems that include TPO (thermoplastic polyolefin) and PVC (poly vinyl chloride). Both are highly reflective roof membranes that provide excellent weathering and are highly resistant to ultraviolet light, tears, punctures, and most chemicals. Thermoplastic roofs have outstanding seam strength and are well suited for second generation applications.
In mechanically attached systems the membrane is affixed to the structural deck with mechanical fasteners adding seam strength and are well suited for second generation applications. Three application methods (mechanically attached, fully adhered, and point affixed) are available for thermoplastic systems.
Fully adhered systems are recommended for applications in which the use of fasteners is undesirable allowing the membrane to bond directly to the insulation board or other membrane substrate. Commonly used for retrofit installations, point-affixed applications allow for the commercial roofing membrane to be welded directly onto plates installed at set intervals.
Modified Bitumen
Modified Bitumen roofing systems are resistant to foot traffic, punctures, and tears. Modified Bitumen is an asphalt-based roofing system reinforced with either polyester or fiberglass. With excellent resistance to foot traffic, punctures, and tears, modified bitumen systems are a blend of traditional and modern roofing technologies. Two different polymers APP (Atactic Polypropylene polymer) and SBS (Styrene Butadiene Styrene) are used to modify the elasticity and temperature flexibility of the membrane. APP modified bitumen systems provide enhanced tensile strength and resistance to foot traffic. SBS modified bitumen systems improve elongation, provide, increased resistance to brittleness at cold temperatures, and fatigue residence. Both systems are available in an assortment of colors with either a smooth or granular surface.
Coated Roof Systems
Coated roof systems are used to extend the life of an existing roof. Coated roof systems are a cost-effective solution for extending the life of an existing roof system. Coatings provide a highly reflective surface that may lower roof surface temperature, decrease indoor cooling costs, and ultimately, reduce overall expenditures. By forming to irregular roof surfaces, coatings seal cracks and splits in the roof surface. Onec applied, coatings forms a seamless, watertight seal over the entire roof.
EPDM
EPDM is one of the most sustainable and environmental materials currently used in the roofing industry. EPDM (Ethyline Propolyne Diene Terpolymer) is a single-ply rubber roofing membrane that is resistant to a high degree of ozone, ultraviolet, weathering, and abrasion damage. Because of its tolerance to a wide array of weather conditions including wind and hail, and superb second generation application, EPDM is one of the most sustainable and environmental materials currently used in the industry.
Accounting for 35% of current EPDM installations, ballasted systems provide the most cost-effectiveness due to the ease and speed of installation. These systems are primarily used for large new construction projects, but can also be used on roof replacement projects that can accommodate an average ballast weight of 10-12psf. Mechanically attached systems are a lightweight solution for building of all sizes in which the roof membrane is affixed to the structural deck using mechanical anchors.
In applications where the use of mechanical fasteners is undesirable or unfeasible, fully adhered applications affix the commercial roof membrane directly to the insulation board or other roofing substrate. Because of recent technological advances, the fully adhered system is quickly becoming a leading choice in second generation applications and is ideal for use in special configurations such as domes and barrels.
Built-Up Roof
Built up roof systems consist of multiple plies of felts, fabrics, or mats that are laminated together with bitumen. Built-up roof (BUR) systems consist of multiple plies of felts, fabrics, or mats that are laminated together with bitumen, either asphalt or coal tar pitch. The application incorporates alternating layers of plies and bitumen and is finished with a gravel application, a mineral cap sheet, or a weather resistant coating. BUR is designed to meet a broad range of waterproofing applications and is highly resistant to punctures and weathering.
Metal Roof
Metal roofs are systems in which standing seams or corrugated metal panels are mechanically fastened together. Metal roofs are systems in which standing seams, R-panels, or corrugated metal panels are mechanically fastened to existing structure points. Metal roof provide architects, building designers, and owners with a variety of choices ranging from the type of metal to dozens of color options. Because of its excellent strength, durability, and fire resistance, metal roofs are the rising star of the energy-efficient and sustainable building movement.
SUSTAINABLE SOLUTIONS
Sustainable solutions to roofing include skylights and solar panels.
Sustainable roofing designs seek to have a minimal impact on the environment. Prismatic skylights, light tubes, and photovoltaic solar panels are an efficient way to reduce energy consumption. Cool roofs use a highly reflective surface to emit the radiant heat back instead of transferring the heat into the building below. Green roofs or “living roofs” absorb rainwater, provide insulation, and help lower urban air temperatures.