A commercial roof replacement in San Antonio, TX, is a big investment. It requires a lot of time and funds. Because of this, it’s crucial that it lasts long enough for you to get your money’s worth. Learn about the different factors that’ll affect its life span of your commercial roof.
Installation
To ensure its longevity, you need to hire skilled and competent contractors to install it. Even the highest quality materials can suffer from poor artisanship, which will lead to early deterioration.
The best commercial roofing contractors are certified by manufacturers. They’re experts in the business and employ highly skilled laborers. It’s also a good idea to hire a company that provides an extensive warranty in case something goes wrong.
Material
Different materials are suitable for various situations. Some work better in certain places than others. It’s essential you pick the right one for your area to ensure that it lasts as long as possible. Here are a few options to consider:
EPDM
EPDM (ethylene propylene diene monomer) is one of the most common types available. It’s made by layering rolls of durable rubber on top of each other. The material lasts for around 20 years. But, the seams can be points of weaknesses, so make sure they’re properly maintained.
TPO
In contrast to EPDM, TPO (thermoplastic roofing) comprises only one piece of rubber, making it easy to set up. The material is also highly resistant to fire, chemical, and wind damage. It’s much cheaper than other options as well.
TPO has a life span of approximately 15 years. The material breaks down after that and loses its water resistance. But, it’ll last longer if you use the right coating and have it properly maintained.
Metal
Metal is one of the longest-lasting options with a life span of 40-60 years. It consists of several panels held together using fasteners. The material is also fire resistant and reflects the heat from the sun, meaning it’s a good choice for high-temperature areas.
Contractors usually coat the seams with a sealant to prevent leaks. And, for further protection, they can also place a piece of fabric over the entire thing.
Weather
Roofs are your business’s first line of defense against extreme weather like heavy rain and strong winds. Most are designed to withstand this, but prolonged exposure may break them. Even the sun’s UV rays can damage them.
While the weather can’t be controlled, you can still prepare for it. Some materials are better suited for certain climates than others. For example, EPDM and metal are resistant to UV rays and are perfect for warm and sunny places. If you’re not sure what to choose, ask your contractor.
Coating
Applying a protective coating also increases your commercial roof life span. It creates a barrier against potential hazards, such as foot traffic and weather elements. And, this’ll help prevent water accumulation, which leads to damage and, eventually, leaks.
A white or reflective coating also reflects the sun’s rays away from the building instead of absorbing them. This prevents UV damage and lets your roof last even longer.
Maintenance
Every roof is subject to wear and tear; they need to be maintained properly if you want them to last as long as they can. Several factors can affect its life span, so have it inspected regularly to ensure it remains in top condition. This is especially important after periods of harsh weather.
Contact Stevan Buren roofing if you have questions. They provide various commercial roofing services in San Antonio, TX. You can call them for installation, replacement, repair, maintenance, and any other task required to make your investment last.