If you own a commercial building, your roof is one of your most important investments. It protects the integrity of your structure (and everything that it contains) from extreme weather conditions.
Over the past several years, many business owners have decided to install a commercial metal roof because of its numerous advantages over other roofing materials. But, what are the top benefits of metal roofing for a commercial building? Let’s take a look at all that this type of roofing has to offer.
1. Durability
Durability stands as one of the most compelling reasons behind the surging popularity of commercial metal roofs. The choice of roofing material plays a pivotal role in determining how well a building can withstand the test of time. Unlike traditional roofing materials, metal roofing offers longevity that outlasts all other materials.
With its long lifespan (that can easily exceed 50 years), commercial metal roofs provide a solution that minimizes the hassle of frequent roof replacements, ultimately reducing maintenance costs and downtime for businesses.
Weathering the Long-Term Commitment
Metal roofs are designed to combat a variety of weather conditions, from high winds and heavy rain to snow and even extreme heat. A metal roof shields the building against leaks, rot, and other damage caused by moisture infiltration, which can be a persistent concern with other roofing materials.
There’s a low maintenance component to commercial metal roofs, too. Usually metal roofing panels are installed on sloped roof decks, which alleviates ponding water. Steel roofing and aluminum are considered more durable than other types of roofing, saving you money from repairs. And, adding a coating to the commercial metal roof can help to protect from severe weather and associated roof repair.
2. Sustainability
As sustainability concerns have grown, commercial metal roofing has proven to be a great option. Metal roofs often utilize a significant amount of recycled material, reducing the demand for newly extracted resources. Additionally, metal roofing is recyclable at the end of its life cycle, further reducing its impact on landfills and the environment (not to mention that in many cases metal roofs can be installed overtop of existing systems – reducing the materials that would otherwise be tossed in a landfill).
Metal roofs also excel in energy efficiency. They reflect a substantial portion of the sun’s rays, thereby preventing excessive heat from being absorbed into the building. This reflective property, often referred to as “cool roofing,” leads to reduced energy consumption for cooling purposes, contributing to both cost savings and a smaller carbon footprint.
3. Fire Resistance
Most commercial metal roofs are an Assembly-Rated Class A. This means that if you’re looking for a commercial roofing option that protects your building against a blaze, a metal roofing system is a great option.
Because they’re non-combustible, commercial metal roofs are commonly utilized for manufacturing facilities. They have a high melting point, and while that doesn’t mean they don’t get damaged during extensive fires, they can help contain and minimize damage.
If you live somewhere prone to wildfires or severe weather, you should definitely consider metal roofing materials.
4. Pleasing Aesthetics
Gone are the days when commercial metal roofing was synonymous with a uniform, industrial appearance. Modern advancements in design and technology have transformed metal roofs into a canvas for architectural creativity. Options include a variety of colors, finishes, and profiles that allow building owners to tailor the roof’s appearance to complement the overall design and branding of the business.
Butler Manufacturing
Butler Manufacturing, a recognized leader in the construction industry for more than 50 years, has been at the forefront of metal roofing projects. By seamlessly integrating their metal roof solutions with the architectural vision of each project, Butler Manufacturing has redefined the possibilities of commercial metal roofing.
Butler offers standing-seam panels, exposed fastener, and retrofit systems to deliver the look your business is searching for.
TEMA is a proud distributor and installer of Butler Manufacturing’s metal roofing products. This partnership, along with functionality and aesthetics, enables TEMA to offer commercial building owners the advantages of reliable and durable roofing solutions when it comes to standing seam metal roofing, concealed fastener systems, and more.
5. Cost Efficiency
While the initial investment in commercial metal roofing may be higher compared to some other roofing materials, the long-term benefits quickly outweigh the upfront costs.
As mentioned earlier, the extended lifespan of metal roofs eliminates the need for frequent replacements, saving businesses substantial amounts in maintenance and replacement expenses.
Moreover, the energy efficiency and sustainability aspects translate into reduced utility bills and potential tax incentives for environmentally friendly building practices.
How Other Types of Roofing Stack Up Against Metal
Of course, there are other commercial roofing options that can be installed by trusted commercial roofing contractors like TEMA.
Asphalt Shingle Roofing
Asphalt shingles last about 30 years. They’re fire resistant, and – similar to metal – work great on steep and low slope roofs.
PVC
This type of plastic roofing option stands up against severe weather, but can shrink over time. It’s fire- and water-resistant, and can last up to 30 years.
TPO
Noted for being energy efficient, TPO is also water resistant, but it doesn’t do well with extreme heat. Like other popular commercial applications, TPO can last up to 30 years.
EPDM
Secured with fasteners, glue, or ballasts, EPDM is available in black or white. It’s a single-ply rubber membrane that can last over 20 years.
How Is a Commercial Metal Roof Installed?
It helps to know the installation process of any commercial project, and that includes a commercial metal roof.
- First, the old roof is either removed or prepared for a retrofit project.
- Next, insulation is added to create a thermal barrier, which helps with energy efficiency.
- Then, a waterproof underlayment is added. This protects against moisture and leaks.
- Metal panels are measured and cut to fit the roof’s dimensions. These pieces can come in different widths, depending on the project, and are fastened based on the type of system being used.
- Sealing and flashings are added so that water doesn’t infiltrate.
- The professional installer will fully inspect the roof after it’s completed to ensure proper installation.
Hiring a Professional
If you work with a commercial roofing contractor, they’ll offer a warranty to protect against workmanship and other issues that may arise with metal shingles/panels. Remember, your roof is a big investment. It only makes sense to get high-quality installation, like that from TEMA Roofing.
Let TEMA Handle Your Metal Roof Installation
All in all, commercial metal roofs offer many benefits that are valuable to businesses and other commercial establishments. This type of roofing can provide a significant amount of value (especially over the long term), and in addition to being more easily maintained than traditional flat roofs, they are also much more attractive!
So, if you’re looking for the perfect way to top off your business, take a look at the many advantages of this type of system and call TEMA to install your very own commercial metal roof. With our years of experience and expertise in the industry, we’ll provide an installation that’s built to last.
