Multifamily
Asphalt Shingles – 3-tab Composition & Architectural, the most commonly used on multifamily properties, are, as a point of reference, installed on the majority of single family residences. Asphalt shingles are available in many different colors and profiles. The quality of the mat, the asphalt and the granules are the main ingredients that will separate a quality shingle from one of lesser quality. If you utilize shingles from one of the large manufacturers the quality of the shingle will be long lasting. These shingles are one of the most affordable roofing options on the market. Finally, the ease of installation is an advantage for each party involved. Although relatively heavy, asphalt shingles are light enough to be installed on any roof.
Tile
Aside from their aesthetic appeal, tile roofing is incredibly durable. Tile is known as a “lifetime roofing choice” because they can easily last for the lifetime of the building with the proper maintenance. While tile tend to be more expensive when compared to traditional asphalt roofing, it makes up the cost by being a more energy-efficient roofing material. Tile is more energy efficient because the shape and design of tile roofing allow air circulation under the roof, which aids in ventilation, further increasing the energy efficiency of your roof.
Commercial Roofing
Five General Types of Commercial Roofing Systems
If you own a commercial building, you understand the roof typically experiences more foot traffic based on rooftop chillers, A/C units, etc. – these all contribute to reducing the useful life of the roofing system. Based on that, it is more than hail, wind and severe rain that plagues commercial roofs. Most commercial/industrial roofing features a flat or low slope roof design with five common roofing materials used for these designs.
Single Ply Roofing: TPO, PVC & EPDM
Single ply roofing, for example TPO (Thermoplastic Polyolefin), PVC (Polymerizing Vinyl Chloride), or EPDM (ethylene propylene diene monomer) are composed of a layer of insulation board, a single ply membrane of TPO, PVC, or EPDM, flashing, and either mechanically attached or fully adhered (using a liquid adhesive) to “join” the layers firmly to the roof deck.
Coating Systems
Coating systems are typically silicon based and applied by either rolling or through a spray nozzle onto the roof surface. These systems are applied directly to the existing roof surface subsequent to it being properly cleaned. This system is easy to apply, lower cost, lightweight and flexible.
Built-Up Roofing
Built-up roofs (BUR) are “built-up” with multiple layers consisting of a base sheet of fiberglass or asphalt coated material, several layers of felt or fabric, a bitumen layer of asphalt, coal tar or lap cement, and a surfacing component of gravel or asphalt.
Metal Roofing
Metal roofs have grown in popularity – R-Panel and Standing Seam roofs are the most popular. They typically don’t require as many roof repairs as other types of commercial roofing. Metal roof types, to name a few, include aluminum, copper, and steel.
Modified Bitumen
Modified Bitumen (MB) roofs are common on retail centers and low sloped multifamily because it is economical. Much like BUR, MB requires several layers of materials such as: insulation, base sheets, a modified bitumen membrane reinforced with polyester, fiberglass, adhesive, a surface coat, and flashing to provide protections around penetrations (vents) in the roofing surface. These roofs, when nearing the end of their useful life are a great candidate for a coating system.
Example of Single Ply Roofing Coating Application In Progress Built-up Roof Near Completion Metal Roof Close-up Example of an Aging Modified Bitumen Roof