As a business owner, you have many options when installing or replacing the roof on your facility. With a wide range of materials available, choosing the best one for your building can be challenging. Metal roofing is a popular choice because of the many advantages it offers to commercial property owners.
What Is a Metal Roofing System?
Metal roofs can comprise a wide range of materials, typically aluminum or steel. Examples of metal roofing systems for commercial structures include:
- Standing seam: This roofing option provides a sleek, modern look consisting of steel or aluminum panels with leak-resistant interlocking seams. A standing seam roofing system is ideal for flat or low-sloped roofs on commercial structures like office buildings, hospitals and schools.
- R-panel: These roofs consist of galvanized steel or aluminum panels that work well on low- or steep-sloped roofs. This application makes them common installations for stores, restaurants and industrial facilities.
- Corrugated: The wavy pattern of the steel and aluminum used in this type of metal roofing provides additional strength and stability. Typical applications include agricultural and industrial structures.
- Shingle: A metal shingle roof mimics the appearance of asphalt shingle or slate materials. However, these systems add durability and energy efficiency.
- Tile: These steel or aluminum tiles are suitable for steep-sloped commercial structures. They can be custom-fitted for various building designs.
What Are the Benefits of Metal Roofing?
Installing a metal commercial roof on your building offers several benefits:
- Durability: Metal roofs deliver proven performance that stands the test of time, often lasting 50 years or more.
- Energy efficiency: These roofing materials reflect rather than absorb sunlight, reducing the strain on your building’s cooling system and lowering your energy costs.
- Fire protection: Steel and aluminum are noncombustible materials that provide extra protection and reduce the risk of the flames spreading if a fire occurs in your building.
- Minimal maintenance: The solid construction and longevity of metal roofing materials reduce long-term repair and ownership costs, helping your company’s budget.
- Visual appeal: Many of these roofing systems offer multiple color and design options to complement your building’s decor and suit your unique style preferences.
- Weather resistance: Metal roofs offer excellent protection against wind, rain, snow, hail and other potentially destructive forces.
Potential Disadvantages of Metal Roofing
The higher upfront costs accompanying many metal roofing system installations could deter business owners who are working with a tight budget. However, longevity and minimal maintenance and repair expenses can maximize your long-term return on investment.
The sound of rain falling on a metal roof can be distracting, especially in offices or other work areas requiring a quiet environment. The installer can take specific steps to mitigate the noise if you prefer.
Replacing a metal roof or installing a new one can be challenging. Often, installing a metal roof can require more downtime than working with other roofing types. Choosing a contractor who is familiar with the specific material type and has earned the appropriate certifications from the manufacturer is crucial.
The Difference Between Metal Roofing and Other Roofing Systems
As a savvy business owner, you’ll likely want to compare several roofing material types. You will probably come across composite shingles, which consist of fiberglass or recycled paper substances combined with asphalt. While this roofing is less expensive and faster to install, it doesn’t approach the durability and longevity of metal.
Membrane roofing, such as ethylene propylene diene monomer (EPDM), is another popular option for commercial projects. While this rubber roofing material is budget-friendly, it punctures more easily than metal, so it may not meet some business owners’ aesthetic requirements. However, this damage is usually easy to fix.
Is Metal the Right System for Your Commercial Roof?
If maximum strength and longevity are the most important concerns when installing a roof on your facility, a metal product can be your best long-term option. The roof could last for the duration of your enterprise, allowing you to avoid a costly replacement in the future.
The type of business you operate can also be a factor. For instance, if you store valuable items, a metal roof could provide the best protection against the elements.
Contact DDP Roofing Services, Inc. Today
The experienced experts at DDP Roofing Services, Inc. can help you explore your metal roofing options so you can make an informed purchasing decision. Contact us to learn more.