What are the Top Commercial Roofing Materials?

Proper design of a flat commercial roof has beneficial effects on the lifespan of the building and the reduction of energy losses. Such a project must be carried out by commercial roofing Denver specialists, who will take into account the particularities of the building. The main challenges in the construction of a flat roof are its optimal design as well as the proper waterproofing.

There are several top materials for commercial roofing.

BITUMINOUS MEMBRANE

The bituminous membrane was, and will probably remain, at least in the near future, the main solution for preventing water infiltrations in the flat roof structure, and, subsequently, inside the respective buildings.

Bituminous membranes are essentially made of bitumen, with a fiberglass or polyester reinforcement; the exterior is provided with various finishes – natural slate or sand. Bitumen is a viscous substance that dries solid and is able to withstand extreme temperatures. It is obtained by coal distillation or by hot oxidation of oil residues. Bitumen is the one “responsible” for the waterproofing properties of these membranes.

SYNTHETIC MEMBRANES PVC, TPO, EPDM

Commercial roofing Denver contractors tell us that synthetic membranes together with their accessories offer you everything you need to obtain a high-performance waterproofing flat roof system, lightweight, safe, quick to install and particularly flexible.

These membranes meet the most demanding specifications, providing excellent thermal insulation, reducing the carbon footprint of the building, while ensuring very good protection. Synthetic membranes are used in all construction sectors, from shops to hospitals, commercial buildings schools and universities, including new or refurbished residential buildings.

PVC membrane – is obtained from PVC, plasticizers threaded with fiberglass reinforcement (1.2 and 1.5 mm thick), with a lifespan of about 25 years.

TPO membrane – is obtained from modified polyethylene (rubber), with a thickness of 1.2 mm; 1.5 mm; 1.8 mm; 2 mm, and a lifespan of at least 25 years.

EPDM membrane – is a synthetic monolayer membrane, 100% vulcanized in foils of different thicknesses, chemically stable to UV and ozone, with a lifespan that can reach 50 years.

GREEN TERRACES

When we talk about green roofs, we refer to buildings whose roofs are totally or partially covered with soil and vegetation that grows naturally, on tested and certified waterproofing consisting in special anti-root membranes against the roots of aggressive plants and in a filtration and drainage system that directs the water to the drains but also keeps it in special places designed for soil hydration. The water drainage layer can have a height of 2-10 cm and comes in the form of egg shells, successfully replacing the gravel used so far. Drainage holes are also specially designed to take over both surface water and water infiltrated into the soil.

LIQUID COATINGS

When it comes efficient waterproofing, commercial roofing Denver specialists recommend the use of liquid coatings. They are not a roofing material per se, but are used on existing materials, to increase their efficiency, lifespan and improve the overall aspect of the flat roof. Roof coatings are applied effortlessly and can be easily maintained. Designed for fast drying, these solutions harden in a short period of time and form a very elastic coating, which considerably increases the resistance and durability of roofs.