Everything You Need to Know About Commercial Roofing System in San Francisco

When you’re running a business, the last thing you think about is your roof. That is until there is a defect in the roof structure or the roof completely fails. Whether you run a restaurant, warehouse, or retail store, it’s important to learn the basics of commercial roofing so that if a problem ever arises with your facility’s roof you’ll know what steps to take to address it. 

What Is A Commercial Roof? 

Commercial and residential roofs have the same function; they provide protection against the outside elements. However, there are two key differences between a residential roof and a commercial roofing system. Commercial roofs have a flat surface or a slight slope, while residences, because of their smaller sizes, have a large slope. Commercial roofs are also built with more durable materials, such as metal, thermoplastic (PVC, TPO, and EPDM), concrete, tar and gravel, and many more.  

How Long Does A Commercial Roof Last? 

Not all commercial roofing systems are the same, even if they use the same materials. There are a variety of factors that can affect the longevity of a commercial roof, including weather and maintenance.  

Depending on the roofing materials, a commercial roofing system can last anywhere between ten to fifty years. For instance, a single-ply membrane roof built with TPO or PVC, which is commonly used today in commercial flat roof replacement and installation, can last between 10-15 years.  

 

Understanding The Different Types of Commercial Roofing Materials  

There are over thirteen types of materials often used to construct commercial roofs. We’re going to cover the most popular materials used in commercial roof construction projects today.  

EPDM – This is a popular rubber-like material that’s typically used in a flat roof replacement. EPDM is very durable because it is resistant to blistering, cracking, and rotting. This is a low-maintenance and long-lasting roofing solution.   

Modified Bitumen – This multi-ply roofing material can be hard to install, but it’s well worth the challenge. One of the major benefits of this commercial roofing material is that it absorbs heat rapidly. Modified Bitumen can last ten to twenty years.   

PVC – PVC is a durable material that’s commonly used in flat roof constructions. PVC is a thermoplastic material with heat-welded seams. This material is one of the most expensive commercial roofing materials, but it can last fifteen to thirty years.  

Commercial Roof Maintenance in San Francisco

Proper maintenance is crucial to extending the life of your commercial roof. As a business owner, it’s important to make sure you repair leaks within the infrastructure, treat water damage, and regularly inspect the HVAC systems that run through the roof. Taking steps to prepare a business roof for every season can ensure that it remains in good condition.  

There are hundreds of commercial roofing companies in the area. Finding the right commercial roof contractors for maintenance and repairs can be a challenge. Here at Apollo Roofing Company, we are the commercial roofing contractors you can trust. Contact us today for help in maintaining or repairing your commercial roof.