What is Commercial Roofing?

Many consumers do not know the difference between a Residential Roofer and a Commercial Roofer.  They think either of them could do the job.  Nothing could be further from the truth!  The commercial roofer that has the ability, equipment, and training to handle the big jobs in the Odessa area that qualify as a commercial project.

Commercial Roofing 101

Generally speaking, a commercial roofing project can include anything bigger than a single-family dwelling or duplex. They range from small strip malls to sports stadiums, factories, and everything in between. This includes new construction, repairs, and re-roofing of large buildings. 

Residential roofing has a limited amount of material choices, and single-family homes do not vary much in terms of roofing structure and configurations. A commercial roof structure in the Permian Basin, however, may come in a myriad of designs, functions, and materials.  In addition, it oftentimes as obstacles such as HVAC equipment and other items on the roof.

Successful commercial roofing companies must, therefore, invest in the equipment required to install or repair the many different types of commercial roofing systems. Metal roofing, membrane roofing, rubberized roof coatings, and built-up roofing all call for different application methods, specialized tools, and proper training.

What Are The Most Popular Commercial Roofing Materials for Odessa Texas?

Commercial roofing contractors in the Permian Basin have a wide range of materials available to them. Among the most popular, and practical, are:

Metal Roofing

Metal Roofing is one of the oldest roofing materials in use.  Sheets of galvanized steel, stainless steel, aluminum, and copper are some of the commercial metal roof types available.  Steel roofs contain a high amount of recycled material and come in a wide range of colors and profiles.  Metal roofs can save on heating and cooling bills. Because they can last up to 100 years, they will save money in the long run over other roofing materials.  In fact, the Kronborg Castle in Denmark had the same copper roof from 1585 until 2009! Commercial metal roofers use this system primarily on roofs with a moderate to a high pitch. Metal flat roof systems with standing seams are used for nearly flat applications.

PVC Roofing

PVC Roofing is a Polyvinyl Chloride sheet that is rolled out over a smooth substrate, such as plywood or foam board insulation.  A self-propelled hot air gun welds the overlapped seams together.  PVC roofs can last up to 20 years and are most commonly installed on flat or very low sloped roofs.  Due to its high fire-resistance rating, this is a good choice if you are in an area where wildfires are common.  Because of its flat profile, PVC roofs have a high wind resistance factor, and its reflective qualities can keep cooling costs low.

TPO Roofing

TPO Roofing, or Thermoplastic Polyolefin, is another membrane roofing system similar to PVC. Both have welded seams, and both have a high reflectivity rating. TPO has a lower chemical resistance than PVC, so it is not a good choice for roofs with vents that may emit oils, like a restaurant grill hood or grease trap. TPO has a reported lifespan of up to 30 years but has only been in use for the past 20 years.

EPDM Roofing

EPDM Roofing is Ethylene Propylene Diene Monomer, commonly called ‘rubber roofing’.  It is among the least expensive materials, and one of the most problematic commercial roofing products.  According to industry experts, EPDM roofs, because of their high UV resistance, can last up to 50 years. However, they are prone to shrinkage and damage from foot traffic and storm debris.  It is easy to install, but seam separation or leaks can be hard to detect until it is too late.  Being made primarily from old tires and sawdust, it is heat absorbent and can lead to higher energy bills, eating into your up-front savings over time.

SPF Roofing

SPF Roofing is fast becoming the choice of commercial flat roofing contractors and building owners who need a new roof, but do not want the expense of repairing or tearing off the old roof.  Spray Polyurethane Foam requires a high degree of training and certification, but the result is a highly energy-efficient roof coating that is easy to maintain, seamless and waterproof.  The chemicals used are non-ozone depleting and environmentally safe.  One drawback, the system must be applied on a clear, windless day, and the underlying surface must be cleaned properly for the material to adhere.

Built-Up Roofing

Built-Up Roofing is probably the most common flat roof system applied by commercial roofers in Odessa TX and can be either smooth or gravel surfaced.  In the application, installers melt ‘kegs’ of tar and pump the tar up to the roof surface, where it is spread by hand. The pea-stone surface on a built-up roof helps weigh down and protect the layers of felt and tar underneath from impacts such as hail.  It also reflects sunlight and absorbs heat that would otherwise penetrate the underside of the roof.  One disadvantage to a tar-and-gravel roof is its inherent weight.  The supporting framework must be strong enough to support the weight of the combined materials.

MB Roofing

MB Roofing is another rolled roofing system for flat or low-sloped roofs that is much more durable than PVC or TPO.  In fact, it is for applications where the roof receives heavy foot traffic, such as rooftop gardens or walkways.  Modified Bitumen is a single layer of asphalt, impregnated with fiberglass or polyester fibers.  It is easy to install and repair, if necessary.  MB roofing can also be treated with a reflective coating to increase its energy efficiency.

Asphalt Rolled Roofing

Asphalt Rolled Roofing is the least desirable of the commercial roofing industry.  This roofing system is not suitable for flat roofs, and difficult to apply on anything more than a gentle slope.  With a lifespan of about 10 years, you lose any savings realized with this roofing system when the material needs replacement.  This roofing material is best suited for open-sided storage buildings or emergency repairs to a damaged roof that does not need permanent repairs right away.