Commercial Corrugated Roofing: Lasts Longer, Costs Less

Choosing what kind of roofing to install on your commercial property is hard. It’s a huge investment and your roof is a major asset – one that you’d like to last for a long time.

If you have the building layout for it, metal is the way to go when it comes to long-lasting roofing systems. With the right care, they can last 70 years or more! The price tag attached to a metal roof installation is certainly on the higher end, but when you factor in the minimal maintenance needed and the longevity of the system, it really is a no-brainer!

Let’s take a deeper look at one of the most affordable options for metal systems: corrugated roofing.

What Is Corrugated Metal Roofing?

This kind of corrugated roofing is made up of metal roof panels. The corrugated panels are rolled out over an open purlin system or a solid substrate such as an underlayment. Then they’re attached to the substrate using screws and washers. Ridge caps, closure strips, and sealant are applied for extra waterproofing.

It’s an extremely popular option for commercial property owners, especially for large industrial buildings with a pitched roof, thanks to the benefits that corrugated roofing provides.

Benefits of Corrugated Metal Roofs

Cost Effective

When it comes to metal roofing, corrugated roofs are less expensive than standing seam metal and many other types of roofing systems.

Single-ply membranes like PVC, TPO, and EPDM can cost between $3 – $15 per square foot. (Remember, prices vary depending on the location of your roofing project and if you’re contracting with a roofing company that takes advantage of cooperative purchasing contacts like we do.)

BUR will cost you anywhere between $4 – $10.

Metal standing seam usually costs around $10 – $13.

Corrugated roofs fall in the $5 – $6 range.

Lifespan

PVC typically lasts around 20-30 years. Same goes for TPO and EPDM, depending on weather conditions.

A metal roof, however, can last 70 years. And, a well-maintained metal roof can last for 100!

With other roofing materials, about 20 years out, you’re paying for a new roof. 40 years out, you’re paying for another… the trend never really changes. Not to mention potentially having to halt operations every time you go through the re-roof process.

If you want to set your business up for long-term success, a metal roof does just that. A corrugated metal roof even does it for half the price tag!

Low Maintenance

Sure, they require an occasional check, but when it comes to maintenance, you really can’t do better than a metal roof. At the very least, all roofs should be inspected twice a year for any minor issues that could turn into major repairs later.

The same goes for metal roofs whether they’re standing seam or corrugated. But, keep in mind that there’s an additional maintenance step for corrugated roofs with exposed fasteners.

You want to have the screws and washers checked every year and tightened every 5 years or so. This expense is on par (or less) compared to the maintenance requirements of other roofing systems.

That’s because galvanized metal sheets are incredibly impact-resistant and durable. They can stand up to pretty much any weather condition – be it hail, rain, or extreme cold and heat.

They’re even so good at withstanding heat that they exceed Energy Star standards for cool roofs, which can end up saving you even more money!

Energy Efficiency

Metal roofs excel at providing UV protection, which can keep your building cool during the hot months.

Because corrugated metal roofs are versatile, you can even boost your energy savings by applying a white or other light color option roof coating. These amp up a metal roof’s durability and redirects up to 80% of sunlight, keeping your property about 50°F cooler.

Since energy costs are on the rise, it can be especially expensive to keep commercial buildings cool. But, metal roofs can cut your costs down dramatically. In fact, a metal roof with a white coating can cut energy costs by 40%.

Due to its energy efficiency, you can even save money on the upfront costs. With a high enough energy-efficiency rating, you can get tax rebates on your roof installation.

Can You DIY a Corrugated Metal Roof Installation?

One of the benefits we didn’t mention above is that corrugated roofing sheets are easier to install than other roofing materials, which means lower labor costs during installation.

But, don’t think that means you can just grab an installation guide and get it done yourself. There are loads of accessibility issues with any type of roofing project, and because of their grooves, this goes double for corrugated panels.

Roofing is dangerous. It has the 2nd highest injury rate of all industries – which is why safety is our priority. While cutting costs is good, it should never come at the expense of anyone’s well-being.

No matter what kind of roofing project you’re doing, you want to book a professional company that exceeds OSHA guidelines. Not only does this keep you protected, but it also gives you a warranty on the work.

Set Your Business Up For Long-Term Success

Corrugated roofing is a wonderful option for businesses that want a long-lasting roof, but don’t want to pay the standing seam costs.

It’s a durable, life-long investment that can protect your property for decades.

It’s true you’ll have to remember to check and potentially tighten your fasteners. This can be irritating – or even difficult if you’re juggling multiple properties. But, you can easily enroll in a roof asset management program to monitor and handle your roofing needs. Then you can rest assured that your corrugated roof is being taken care of and on track to last a century or more.