Single-ply roofing is a popular option for commercial buildings with low sloped or flat roofs. This type of roofing is made from different materials, and two popular options are rubber and PVC. Here are four things to know about single-ply commercial roofing.
1. Installation Is Less Disruptive
Having a new roof put on a building can be a loud and messy process, especially if you choose a built-up roof. An advantage of single-ply roofing is that it is easy to install so it can be done without too much disruption to your business. There's not a lot of pounding and hammering, and no strong-smelling fumes are released as happens when a built-up roof is applied.
2. The Roofing Is Adhered In Different Ways
Single-ply commercial roofing comes on big rolls that look like rolls of carpet. The roofing is unrolled on the surface of your building and adhered in a way of your choosing. You can have the material glued to the roof with adhesive, mechanically attached with fasteners, or weighed down with gravel.
3. Rubber And PVC Roofing Vary
While rubber and PVC single-ply roofing have some similarities, they also differ in a few key points. For instance, rubber roofing holds in heat, so it's a good choice if you want help keeping your building warmer in the winter. PVC roofing, on the other hand, is ideal for keeping your building cooler in the summer since the roofing reflects the sun and reduces solar heating. It also allows heat to escape your building more easily than rubber roofing does.
Another way these commercial roofing materials vary is the way they are attached. Rubber roofing seams are joined with adhesive, while PVC seams can be heat-welded together to reduce the risk of seam leaks. Rubber and PVC roofs differ in appearance, too, since PVC roofs are usually white and rubber roofs are black or dark gray.
Both types of roofing material are lightweight, and it may be possible to have a single-ply roof installed over your existing roof if your old roof is still in fairly good shape.
4. Single-Ply Roofing Is Easy To Maintain
When you're considering your choices in commercial roofing, factor in longevity, price, and amount of maintenance needed. Both rubber and PVC roofing have few maintenance requirements, and they're easy to patch or heat-weld if they rip or are punctured. Check your roof regularly, especially if the roof has foot traffic that could damage the roofing, and have repairs done promptly so your single-ply roof has the longest life possible.
To learn more, contact a commercial roofing company.
