Is Rubber Roofing More Effective Than Metal Roofs for Commercial Applications?

Atlanta commercial roofing contractor

Your choice of roofing materials is a complex matter, and can be influenced by several important factors. For instance, you may be interested in finding out which solution is more efficient –rubber roofing or metal roofing? Here is some insight from an A+ BBB accredited Atlanta commercial roofing contractor.

For one thing, rubber roofing does not allow water to seep into your commercial roof too easily. There are several different types of rubber roofs, including EPDM, PVC, TPO and rubber shingles. As compared to metal roofing, rubber roofing has the advantage of being more affordable, less maintenance, fireproof, and also recyclable. But it tends to be less resistant in case of extreme weather.

Metal roofs are extremely durable and can be found in different colors, finishes, and textures. But as compared to rubber, metal does not look as good due to its rough texture. Installation and materials tend to cost more than in the case of rubber, and this type of roof can be more difficult to fix.

So, if you want a cheap and easy-to-install roof fix for your commercial applications, you should go for rubber. But if you need a roof which has to withstand hard weather conditions, metal roofing is the best option for you. And both of these options can be installed over an existing roof.

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Why Is Flat Roofing Used So Often in Commercial Roof Installations?

Flat roofs have been popular for a very long time. They are very affordable, easy to maintain and require fewer parts than in the case of the classic, pitched roofing system. Another reason why flat roofing is used so frequently for commercial buildings is the fact that it helps optimize space usage, which is very important for businesses in general. For example, commercial buildings such as hotels can utilize the flat roof space for gardens, bars, even swimming pools, if the architecture part is carefully done.

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According to in demand flat roofing Atlanta companies, flat roofs can last for about 30 years with proper maintenance, regular inspections and timely repairs. The drainage system is also very efficient. There are even systems which collect and redistribute rainwater, so a flat roof can also be very sustainable.

And because most people only see the front wall of a commercial building, the curb appeal is not a problem for this type of roofing. Another reason why flat roofs are popular for commercial structures is the fact that they can be accessed very easily. And chances are lower to fall off a flat roof than off a pitched one, so flat roofs can also be safer to work on and check from time to time.

Metal Roofing vs. TPO Roofing – Which Is Best for Atlanta?

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When it comes to the materials used for constructing commercial roofing in Atlanta, metal and TPO are the two most popular options. Here are some features that you should know about before choosing one of the two options over the other:

  • Roof life – according to manufacturers and to the studies performed by independent research groups, metal and TPO roofing materials differ considerably in terms of service life. High-end metal roofing Atlanta contractors confirm that structures built from zinc-coated aluminum can last for around six decades, however, the warranted service life of TPO membranes is usually around 25 years.
  • Wind resistance – TPO roofs being constructed from membranes that are fastened very tightly to the decking, they are considered to be stronger when exposed to high winds than metal roofs, especially when compared to standing seam metal roofs that more readily allow wind gusts to reach underneath.
  • Snow load – TPO roofs might have a hard time when exposed very thick layers of snow, metal being a better option for areas that get heavy snowing.
  • Maintenance needs – metal and TPO are both considered to be low maintenance materials. They both need to be regularly cleaned and inspected by a professional, but in most cases those maintenance visits will not reveal any major fault that needs expensive repairs.

 

What are the Benefits of Having a TPO Roof on Your Commercial Building?

TPO roofing Atlanta

TPO roofing was introduced about 30 years ago and it represents a very good alternative to PVC roofing materials. This single-ply roofing membrane is made of rubber-ethylene-propylene and polypropylene per se. TPO is the commonly-used abbreviation for this kind of material.

Having this type of roof for your commercial building has many impressive advantages. First of all, it is very cost efficient. In fact, it costs much less than EPDM or other commercial roofing products.

Second of all, it is very easy to install. It is lightweight and therefore it can be installed in various ways, as compared to other heavier products. At the same time, it is very efficient from the point of view of energy consumption. Eco-friendly TPO roofing Atlanta companies tell us a TPO roof can be completely recycled and it is the perfect choice for companies which are interested in greener approaches.

And last but not least, a TPO roofing system lasts for a very long time. Thus, under most circumstances, these systems last from 20 to 30 years. At any rate, the advantages of a TPO roofing system are the reasons behind its popularity in many regions all throughout the USA, and in other countries as well.