10 Types of Industrial Roofing and Their Benefits

Strong, dependable, and effective roofing systems that can withstand severe weather, heavy loads, and constant wear and tear are essential for industrial buildings. With the wide variety of options available, it's crucial to understand the different types of industrial roofing and their unique advantages. Your selection of an industrial roofing contractor in New York can greatly influence your facility’s overall cost-effectiveness, durability, and energy efficiency. Let this article assist you in making an informed decision that meets your company's needs while ensuring safe and efficient operations.

Let's explore the 10 types of industrial roofing and their advantages.

10 Types of Industrial Roofing and Their Benefits.

1. Roof panel made of gray metal

Metal roofs provide excellent weather protection due to their durability. Advancements in the roofing industry now allow metal roofs to withstand denting and rusting for up to 40 years. Steel, aluminum, and zinc are just a few examples of the materials used in metal roofing. When working with an industrial roofing contractor in New York, they will assist you in selecting the right material for your specific environment. In addition to these materials, there are two main styles of metal roofing: exposed-fastener systems and hidden-fastener systems. It's important to note that metal roofs are best suited for low-slope roofs rather than flat roofs to ensure proper drainage.

Advantages::

• Long lifespan

• Low maintenance

• Energy efficiency resulting from reflective properties

2. Built-Up Roof (BUR)

Built-up roofs, or BURs, have been around since the nineteenth century. Despite unsafe and ineffective installation methods, BURs are still installed today, though less frequently than in the past. This system is known to last 50 years or more in certain circumstances, even though it may not be the safest or most cost-effective option. An experienced roofing contractor in Buffalo can help determine if a BUR is a suitable choice for your building. One of the most durable roofing materials available today is BUR, easily recognized by its gravelly appearance. Although BUR is relatively expensive, as previously mentioned, costs can be adjusted by varying the number of layers to help manage expenses or meet specific needs.

Advantages:

• Excellent waterproofing

• High durability

• UV protection

3. Modified Bitumen Roofing

Modified bitumen is an incredibly flexible and durable asphalt membrane that is reinforced with fiberglass and polymerized rubber or plastic. It has evolved from built-up roofing systems that have been used for over a century on low-slope roofs.

Modified bitumen is commonly used in residential, commercial, and industrial settings, and it is particularly well-suited for low-slope and flat roofs. These systems, provided by industrial roofing contractors in New York, typically consist of two or more layers, depending on the material type. This type of industrial roofing is generally applied to flat or low-slope roofs.

Advantages:

• Superior waterproofing

• Resistance to extreme temperatures

• Easy maintenance and repairs.

4. EPDM Roofing

EPDM roofing (ethylene propylene diene monomer) is a single-ply rubber membrane that is highly flexible and resistant to UV rays, ozone, and weathering. For many years, commercial buildings have increasingly relied on EPDM. As a result, it's challenging to find information unrelated to commercial roofing or commercial industrial roofing contractors, even though more homeowners are expressing interest. Despite operating in the same industry, residential and commercial roofing are entirely distinct. Let's examine the advantages.

Advantages:

• Profitable

• Easy to install

• Exceptional resistance to weather and UV exposure.

5. TPO Roofing

Thermoplastic olefin (TPO) roofing is a single-ply membrane that offers excellent resistance to chemicals and punctures while also being energy-efficient. Benefits: Because TPO roofs reflect sunlight, they consume less energy and help lower cooling costs. As a result, they are also resistant to tearing, punctures, and chemicals. With low installation costs and the ability to reflect heat, this type of industrial roofing is quite popular.

Advantages:

• Energy savings from reflective surfaces

• High durability

• Environmentally friendly

6. PVC Roofing

Another single-ply roofing membrane with remarkable fire, water, and chemical resistance is PVC (polyvinyl chloride) roofing. Industries that require a high degree of protection against harsh substances will find it ideal. PVC roofing offers superior fire, chemical, and durability resistance, providing commercial and industrial roofing contractors with defense against a range of environmental factors.

Advantages:

• Superior chemical resistance 

• Extended lifespan 

• Energy-efficient and low-maintenance

7. Green Roofing

By covering waterproof membranes with layers of vegetation, green roofing reduces energy costs and provides natural insulation. Due to its benefits for the environment, this type of roofing is becoming increasingly popular among roofing contractors in Buffalo. Green roofs offer numerous environmental advantages, including enhanced insulation, lower energy costs, increased biodiversity, and effective stormwater management.

Advantages:

• Natural insulation and lower energy use

• Stormwater management

• Enhanced air quality and aesthetics

8. Spray Polyurethane Foam (SPF) Roofing

A liquid that expands into foam and forms a solid, seamless layer over the roof is sprayed onto create SPF roofing. This type of industrial roofing offers superior waterproofing and insulation. Spray polyurethane foam (SPF) is one of the best industrial roofing contractor in New York materials for performance and longevity. The best way to enhance interior comfort and energy efficiency is with spray foam roofing systems. Other commercial roofing materials simply cannot match SPF's insulating and waterproofing properties.

Advantages:

• Seamless and leak-resistant.

• High R-value for energy efficiency.

• Lightweight and easy to install.

9. Corrugated Roofing

The wavy pattern of corrugated roofing adds strength and durability. Usually made from fiberglass or metal, it is often utilized for warehouses and industrial sheds. Roofing contractors in Buffalo use corrugated roofing sheets for waterproofing carports, sheds, garages, and larger agricultural structures. In addition to being one of the easiest types of roofing to install, these sheets are typically stronger, lighter, and more durable than most alternatives.

Advantages:

• Affordable

• Easy to install and maintain

• Excellent durability against harsh weather

10. Standing Seam Metal Roofing

Standing seam metal roofing provides excellent water resistance and a sleek appearance by locking the panels together with raised seams. It is a popular choice for modern industrial buildings. These roofing panels are secured to the roof using a series of concealed clips that attach them to the underlying sheathing. They are designed to interlock, and the vertical legs of the standing seam panels effectively conceal all of the roof attachments and seams.

Advantages:

• Long lifespan and low maintenance

• Sleek, modern look

• Superior weather resistance

Conclusion

Making the right choice for industrial roofing is essential for protecting your business, ensuring security, and maximizing energy efficiency. Whether you're considering metal, EPDM, or green roofing, each system provides benefits tailored to various industrial needs. 

Assess your budget, the local climate, and your facility's requirements to identify the best option for your building. Investing in the right roofing system will deliver long-term advantages by offering your industrial operations the protection and performance needed for success. Partnering with a skilled commercial industrial roofing contractor ensures peace of mind, durability, and safety for years to come.