A Look at the 5 Common Types of Commercial Roofing in Fort Worth, TX
Commercial Roofing Company, Roof Inspection, Roof Types
Posted on May 5, 2017 by Anderson Industrial Roofing
Roofing is generally separated into commercial and residential types. Let us take a look at commercial roofing in Fort Worth, Texas and their types. When it comes to commercial roofing, there are a few popular roofing types we can examine. If you have only started to search for various commercial roofing options to find the one most suited for your needs, then it is essential that you start with understanding the common types of commercial roofing in Fort Worth, Texas.
The roofing can be redesigned and overhauled with quite a few technologies. Among these are single ply, metal roofs and spray foam roofing applications. One can choose to extend the lifespan of their roof through repairs and renovations or opt for a complete overhaul using the roof types that we will discuss in detail below, each with its benefits and potential drawbacks.
Thermoplastic Olefin
Let us start with Single ply membranes for commercial roofing in Fort Worth Texas. These come in the form of Thermoplastic olefin (TPO), which are polymer/ filler blends that contain a Thermoplastic, rubber and filler. Thermoplastic is a plastic material that can be molded at high temperatures and then becomes firm and solid upon cooling back to normal temperatures. Fillers are particles added to plastics to improve their performance. TPO are subjected temperatures at 210o to 270o C for its parts to blend together.
TPO properties react similar to metal alloys and these vary greatly by controlling their small scales structures- visible under microscopes. The product blends with rubber to create a non-rigid Thermoplastic rubber. Afterwards, TPO rigidity is increased by fillers utilizing a surface tension event. This creates the final product for Commercial roofing in Fort Worth, Texas applications.
TPO is favored for Commercial Roofing because it does not easily degrade, offering long life spans. The material is becoming widely used particularly for this reason and its high resistance to fire and high winds.
Thermo Set Membranes (EPDM)
Another type of roofing you may encounter for commercial roofing Fort Worth, Texas, are thermo set membranes. Although TPO is usually stronger than these membranes, they are used and provide their own set of benefits. EPDM is a good example of these membranes, these are long lasting, and known to be easier to install. EPDM is an elastomer—a polymer that has viscosity and is elastic. The compounds of this roofing type are derived from oil and natural gas. EPDM foils are used to waterproof roofs, and they work well with fireproof hydraulic fluids. The main benefits of these membranes are extraordinary heat and weather resistance. Furthermore, it does not pollute run-off rainwater, which is essential in rainwater harvesting. This elastomer is commonly used in vehicles.
Metal Roofing
Metal roofing is another viable option for commercial roofing in Fort Worth, Texas. These are easy to install, lightweight and are very reflective- allowing you to save on A/C bills. They come in aluminum and steel and are durable, while allowing multiple paint jobs that are subject to wear and tear overtime.
Both metals offer their own compromises. Aluminum is soft and can be easily damaged or dented, while steel can corrode if the paint job is compromised. These roofs allow minimum deposition of rain and snow. Metal roofs, despite their cons allow for very long lifespans—up to 40 years, while they get a Class A fire rating (the highest rating against fires). Metal roofing can be applied over less fire resistant materials such as wood, to complete the roof.
Although metal roofs do well to prevent leaks, they can be very noisy, making a constant and loud tapping sound when it rains on commercial roofing in Fort Worth, Texas. This can give a headache to some people, but most who choose this roof type tend to adapt to it, finding the sound even comforting.
The biggest drawback of the roof however is the cost. It tends to be equal to other premium materials. It is not recommended if you plan to move in a couple of years, as you certainly won’t get a return on investment in that time frame. Coatings are necessary with metal roofs to prevent rust and provide further waterproofing and reflectivity.
Commercial Roof Coating
An alternative for commercial roofing in Fort Worth, Texas roof systems is commercial roof coating. Roof coating should not be confused with deck coatings, which are made for waterproofing pedestrian heavy walkways. Roof coatings tend to be more cost effecting than roof replacements. Studies show that 70% to 80% of the roofs replaced still have a substantial lifetime left.
Roof replacement includes high labor and material costs and it can prove disruptive to your operations. Furthermore, disposing of the old material can be costly. Anderson Industrial roofing for commercial roofing in Fort Worth, Texas provides roof coating/restoration products that require lesser maintenance costs and even needs for maintenance. They offer strong protection against weather despite being a mere coating. They prevent leaks and solar radiation, and there will be almost no material disposal costs, in addition to cutting down of resulting landfill fees. Roof coatings have great durability so they are a capable alternative to physical commercial roofing replacements.
Spraying Polyurethane Foam
A fifth option is Polyurethane for commercial roofing in Fort Worth, Texas. The system involves spraying Polyurethane foam on an existing roof to improve its insulation. The roof needs to be fully cleaned and repaired before the adhesive can be applied that completely melds with the surface. The spray extends the life of the roof; it can also be applied to a newly constructed roof. The coating provides cost savings the entire year round, as it can trap warm air in, and keep cold air out during winters and keeps a generally cooler roof during the cooling season.
It has an extremely long life span of 50 years, requires little maintenance, and is low VOC and CFC free. The product is noise cancelling and prevents leaks. It can be applied to almost any type of roof without disrupting ongoing business. Polyurethane roofs are extremely reflective and thus provide great energy savings. While it is lightweight, it considerably increases the strength of the building.