The humid subtropical climate of Atlanta comes with four distinct seasons and lots of precipitation the year around. These special climate conditions expose local roofs to special conditions and challenges, which also means that the materials used on local roofs need particular qualities. Here are some of the most common choices for commercial roofs in the city:

• Metal – available in a variety of alloy versions, the metal sheets and panels used for making flat roofs are popular due their affordability, easy installation and low maintenance needs. Metal roofs are also very durable, giving the commercial facilities they are installed on adequate protection for around 30-40 years.
• Membranes – Economical EPDM roofing Atlanta contractors confirm that membrane solutions are popular due to their resistance to puncture, easy installation and and durability. TPO and EPDM are the two most common examples of membrane roofing materials.  TPO roofs usually come in white, grey and tan, which ensures superior heat reflectivity, while EPDM comes in black, which absorbs heat.
• Built-up roofs – one of the most traditional solutions used on flat roofs, these structures consist of alternated layers of asphalt sheets and some kind of aggregate, such as mineral granules. The solution is popular due to the low costs and low maintenance needs.

Bituminous membranes are materials for waterproofing that are used quite often for commercial roofing in Atlanta. They are made of modified bitumen to which elasto-plastomer polymers are added, and they are manufactured with different finishes on the upper side (sand, aluminum foil, mineral slate, etc.)

Different uses include:

• Preventing water infiltration through the roof
• Restoration of flat commercial roofs
• Waterproofing circulating or non-circulating flat roofs

Careful!

According to trusted EPDM roofing Atlanta contractors, before purchasing bituminous membranes, the complexity of the work to be performed must be taken into account, in order to choose the right membrane from the point of view of the quality-price ratio (do not to buy membranes for roads and bridges if you have to insulate the roof!).

Tips

Bituminous membranes can be put into operation at an ambient temperature between +5 degrees C and +35 degrees C.

• The most important advantages of the membranes made from additive bitumen are the cold flexibility (up to -25 degrees Celsius) and the hot stability, between 110 and 130 degrees Celsius. These two technical characteristics differentiate additive membranes from oxidized bitumen membranes. Unfavorable weather conditions such as rain, snow or humidity of the surface to be insulated can compromise the quality of the work.
• Keep in mind that the required materials must be 1.12 / 1.15 times larger than the measured surface, due to the longitudinal and transverse overlaps when applying the membranes, and the losses that occur at the joints.