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Is your commercial building in Garden City, Long Island due for a new roof? While buildings with sloped roofs do exist, many commercial buildings must have flat roofs – and there’s a reason for this! The flat roofing provides sleek modernity that complements most of the clean lines of commercial architecture. But beyond aesthetics, flat roofs come along with several practical benefits that can save you money. Are you ready to understand the benefits of flat roofing services in detail? Let’s dive in!
Why Flat Roofs Are Common on Commercial Buildings
Flat roofs are a common choice for commercial buildings in Garden City and across the country. You must be wondering why. Well, here are some reasons why flat roofs are so much in demand:
- Space Optimization: In any commercial construction, the contractor must ensure maximum use of available space. Flat roofs can help the property owner utilize the topmost floor along with the roof area completely, which is not possible with sloped roofs that waste square footage.
- Durable and Long-Lasting: People think otherwise, but flat roofs can last just as well as sloping roofs. Modern flat roofing materials include TPO, PVC, and EPDM, which can withstand the harshest elements of the weather and heavy loads. A flat roof is known to provide years of reliable service if properly installed and maintained.
- Facilitated Drainage: Flat roofing systems could accommodate elaborate drainage arrangements that channel rainwater away from the building, minimizing leakage and seepage, unlike simple gutter systems on sloped roofs.
- Aesthetic Appeal: Flat roofs lend themselves to a smooth, modern appearance that is usually preferred in commercial areas. They let property owners conveniently fulfill any aesthetic requirements set by the local area.
- Simplified Maintenance: A flat roof can be accessed easily by a maintenance expert without the use of ladders, so they can safely and conveniently walk around on the flat surface for inspection and maintenance.
- Optimal HVAC Placement: With flat roofs, there is the convenience of HVAC placement and better energy efficiency, as air flows downwards rather than upwards, and protection of HVAC units against vandalism and damage.
- Cost-Effectiveness: Installation and maintenance of flat roofs are very economical, making them a practical choice for large commercial buildings due to reduced material and workmanship costs.
Factors to Consider When Selecting a Flat Roofing System
Selecting the best roofing type of commercial flat roof depends on some factors that a homeowner needs to consider. First of all, climate and temperature determine the type of roof material that can be used to resist extreme conditions. Secondly, your budget also guides the choice, since the roofing materials vary in cost, installation, and maintenance expenses.
Also, don’t forget to consider how your building will be used. Structural load factors such as foot traffic, equipment installations, or recreational decks affect the impact and consequently the durability of the roof. It is, therefore, recommended that property owners seek advice from commercial flat roofing professionals as they are in a position to offer a detailed analysis of these factors and advise on the most suitable roofing material for your building.
Flat Roofing Materials for Commercial Buildings
When it comes to flat roofing for commercial properties in Garden City, there are several material options which include:
TPO
TPO (Thermoplastic Polyolefin) is utilized as a single-ply membrane system in the United States and consists of polypropylene along with ethylene-propylene rubber. It has hot air welded seams and comes in white, gray, tan, or any other color you may desire. A TPO roof should ideally last between 20 and 30 years, although installation costs can range from $3.50 to $14 per square foot.
PVC
PVC roofing is similar to TPO as it includes polyester reinforcing, hot-air welded seams, and multiple color options. It is also UV and chemically-resistant, flexible, and fireproof. PVC roofing is durable and long-lasting, with an expected lifespan of 30 years when maintained well, and within the range of $4 to $12 per square foot.
EPDM
EPDM roofing is manufactured from synthetic rubber and is suitable for application on low-slope roofs. It is influenced by the expansion and contraction of temperature, resisting UV light, and has been used in commercial applications for over half a century. A well-installed EPDM system can last over 30 years, costing between $3.25 and $14.75 per square foot, depending on the brand and quality.
BUR And Modified Bitumen
BUR (Built-Up Roofing) entails the installation of multiple layers of roofing felts that have been covered with hot asphalt to make the roof strong and resistant to heavy foot traffic. With asphalt and chemical polymers, modified bitumen (MB) improves flexibility and temperature resistance. However, maintenance is less frequent due to the layered structure and needs professional intervention to avoid them from drying up and becoming brittle. Modified bitumen roofs can last between 20-30 years, with roofing costs ranging from $9.50 and $14.50 per square foot.
Metal
Metal roofing is one of the longstanding choices and can last for more than 30 years if properly maintained. They require a proper drainage system and should be protected from any falling objects. This type of roofing ranges from $8 to $18 per square foot and is mainly preferred due to its durability and aesthetic appeal for commercial buildings.
Conclusion
Flat roofs are a pocket-friendly solution for commercial buildings but the benefits don’t stop there! However, to ensure it lasts for years, correct flat roof installation and proper maintenance should not be neglected. If you want the best flat roofing service in Garden City, MK Best Roofing has got you covered. We are the most trusted experts in commercial flat roof installation, repair, and replacement in Garden City. Contact MK Best Roofing today to request a free consultation!
by Mottek Group