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Types of Commercial Roof Systems

The roof of a commercial building is an essential component as it stands as the first line of defense against harsh weather conditions. It also acts as an energy-efficient barrier by maintaining proper insulation. In addition, a well-designed roofing system can improve the building’s overall appearance, making it an attractive and visually striking landmark in its vicinity.

Building owners and facility managers must recognize the characteristics and benefits of different roof options to make an informed choice. Let’s explore the four most common types of commercial roofing systems in greater detail.

Granulated Cap Sheet Roofing System

The granulated cap sheet roofing system is widely adopted in the commercial building industry, particularly for low-sloped structures. It comprises a modified bitumen or built-up roofing material layered with a cap sheet. The cap sheet is also often made up of asphalt reinforced with fiberglass or polyester matting before coating it with granules.

A granulated cap sheet is highly advantageous due to its exceptional waterproofing abilities. It forms an airtight seal, effectively preventing moisture from infiltrating the underlying layers of the roofing material. This is particularly crucial for low-slope roofs, as their flat or almost flat surface makes them more prone to water damage.

Here are additional advantages of the granulated cap sheet roofing system:

• Lower cost compared to other systems
• Enhanced aesthetics due to the color of the granules
• Availability in various weights
• Minimal noise when installed

Metal Roofing System

A metal roof system is an essential component of the building’s roofing envelope, acting as a physical separator between the interior and exterior. It is designed to offer excellent resistance against air, water, heat, and sound, making it a suitable choice for regions susceptible to extreme weather conditions. Not only does it provide functional benefits, but it also contributes to the building’s structural support.

Metals are renowned for their durability and can endure long periods with minimal upkeep. Moreover, they are highly versatile and can be applied to various building types, from modern commercial structures to historical edifices and everything in between.

The following are other benefits of using metal roofs:

• Minimal maintenance
• Low cost in the long term
• Eco-friendly option
• Long warranties

Foam Roofing System

A foam roofing system is widely used for commercial buildings with flat roofs. It utilizes liquefied spray polyurethane foam (SPF) onto the surface, which creates a seamless and weather-resistant layer when solidified. The foam also conforms to the roof’s shape, eliminating the need for joints and seams. This is especially beneficial for structures with complex roofing designs.

Two types of spray foam are available: open-cell and closed-cell. Open-cell foam is a lightweight, less dense material that insulates interior spaces. It has a lower R-value, which measures thermal resistance, but is more affordable than closed-cell foam. In contrast, closed-cell foam is denser and pricier. It offers a higher R-value, making it ideal for insulating roofs and exterior walls. It also provides better resistance against moisture and air infiltration.

The advantages of foam roofs are as follows:

• Exceptional energy efficiency and insulation
• Good waterproofing capabilities
• Easy installation and maintenance
• Longer lifespan
• High strength-to-weight ratio

Single-Ply Roofing System

Single-ply roofing is a flexible sheet of plastic-derived material used to protect and cover flat or low-sloped buildings. It is often used with insulation to increase energy efficiency and reduce noise.

There are three main types of single-ply roofs: thermoplastic polyolefin (TPO), polyvinyl chloride (PVC), and ethylene propylene diene monomer (EPDM).

TPO is a newer type of roofing material that is becoming increasingly popular due to its energy efficiency and simple installation process. On the other hand, PVC is widely recognized for its chemical resistance and durability. Lastly, EPDM is a rubber-based material popular in commercial buildings because of its resistance to weathering.

The following are the primary benefits of singly-ply roofs:

• Wide variety of available grades
• Easy installation
• Cost-effective
• Excellent solution against acid rain and severe weather changes
• Lightweight
• Good reflective properties

Commercial Roof Systems at Specguard

Are you looking for top-of-the-line roof coatings and materials for your commercial building? At Specguard, we’ve got you covered! Our selection includes various types of commercial roofing systems and pricing options tailored to your needs. We also take pride in offering cost-effective solutions by selecting the most suitable products for each unique roof type.

Let us help you save money by providing a customized system for your building’s age, condition, and goals. Contact Specguard to learn more about our roofing solutions!

Energy-Efficient Roof Coatings

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Improving energy efficiency is a critical consideration for residential and commercial property owners. Unfortunately, the roof is often overlooked as a major source of energy loss. Using energy-efficient roof coatings is a proven and established solution with numerous benefits. These include reductions in energy consumption, less negative environmental impact, and improved roof structure durability.

This article emphasizes the significance of enhancing roof energy efficiency and presents an overview of elastomeric coatings. It also highlights the advantages of selecting eco-friendly alternatives.

Why Are Energy-Efficient Coatings Needed?

Traditional black roofs significantly impact the urban heat island effect because they absorb and hold heat, making them much hotter than reflective roofs. The elevated temperature can shorten the roof’s lifespan, require higher demand for cooling systems, and increase the risk of heat-related illnesses.

In contrast, energy-efficient coatings can reflect sunlight and heat, reducing the heat that roofs absorb. This leads to lower demands for cooling systems, resulting in colder temperatures within buildings and a decrease in the urban heat island effect. Additionally, using these coatings can reduce the need to dispose of existing roofs in landfills.

How Do Elastomeric Roof Coatings Work?

Elastomeric roof coatings are a roofing material known for their ability to expand and contract with temperature changes. They are typically used on flat or low-sloped roofs and can also be used for restoration. In addition, they are made of polymer or acrylic compounds, securing a watertight barrier on the roof surface.

When applied to a roof, elastomeric roof coatings produce a mirror-like appearance reflecting more sunlight and absorbing less heat than a conventional roof. Research studies have indicated that these roof coverings can reflect more than 90% of the sun’s energy in the first year and 78% after three years. They also expel 86% to 87% of absorbed thermal energy.

The Department of Energy has determined that elastomeric coatings can increase energy efficiency by up to 50% while reflecting up to 90% of radiation. This can result in substantial energy consumption savings and lessen a building’s ecological footprint.

What Are the Benefits of Sustainable Roof Coatings?

Sustainable roof coatings provide many benefits, including cost savings, improved indoor comfort, and increased roof durability. In addition, these coatings reduce the need for air conditioning, leading to lower energy bills and less strain on power grids during peak usage. As a result, power outages can be prevented, and greenhouse gas emissions (GHG) can be reduced.

Eco-friendly alternatives help to alleviate the urban heat island effect, creating a more comfortable outdoor environment during hot weather. Furthermore, decreasing roof temperatures can prevent thermal expansion and contraction, leading to a longer lifespan and reduced maintenance costs.

Here are additional advantages of energy-efficient coatings:

• Extend the time between roof replacements, saving money and reducing waste
• Restore old or damaged roofs
• Provide flexible, durable waterproof layer that protects from water, wind, and hail damage
• Minimize disruption to building occupants during installation
• May qualify for energy efficiency tax incentives or rebates

Energy-Efficient Roof Coatings at Specguard

Improve the durability of your commercial and industrial building with high-quality roof coatings and materials from Specguard! Our roof systems and prices meet the needs of any roof type, while our proprietary products are designed for long-term durability. Plus, we offer reflective roof coatings that reflect up to 90% of heat intensity, reducing your environmental impact while saving on energy costs.

Contact us today to learn how we can help you achieve a more sustainable and efficient building! You can also request a quote now.