Owners and managers of commercial buildings know that the roof is vital to the building’s structural integrity. But roofs don’t last forever, and sooner or later, you have to replace them. What is the lifespan of a commercial roof?
As expert commercial roofers in Indianapolis, we know how long a commercial roof will last and how you can prolong its lifespan, saving your company or organization tens of thousands by not having to replace it ahead of time.
Factors Affecting the Lifespan of a Commercial Roof
Several factors affect a roof’s lifespan, from local conditions to the material used. A crucial factor is using the best commercial roofing contractors in Indiana to install it correctly, maintain it, and repair it to maximize how long it lasts.
Weather
Winter ice and snow weigh heavily on roofs, stressing them. Meltwater spills into gaps and refreezes, forcing open cracks in the roofing. Summer brings scorching heat and humidity that causes swelling and weakening of the roofing material. Hail also causes damage.
You can’t prevent inclement weather, but you can call on the services of Indianapolis roofing professionals to maintain your roof to maximize its lifespan.
Roof Architecture
Flat roofs are cheaper to install as they require less material. However, they lead to standing water, weakening their structure. Low-sloped roofs promote water runoff and don’t need repair as often or replacement as soon. However, they do come with higher initial costs.
Occasionally, pitched roofs are used on parts of commercial buildings to aid in shedding water and snow. However, they are difficult and expensive to maintain.
Equipment such as HVAC systems can also stress your roof. Still, proper ventilation is essential to prevent the build-up of heat and moisture in the attic space, especially in summer, which can cause damage to your roofing material.
Speak to commercial roofing contractors in Indiana for guidance about the best architecture.
Roofing Materials
Your choice of roofing material has a significant effect on its lifespan. As commercial roofers in Indianapolis, we use and recommend the following three materials:
- Polyvinyl chloride (PVC)
- Thermoplastic polyolefin (TPO)
- Ethylene propylene diene monomer (EPDM)
PVC is strong and durable, lasting 15 to 30 years. It’s fire-retardant and will self-extinguish if a fire starts in your building. It doesn’t require much maintenance and repair, but the up-front cost is high.
TPO is less expensive than PVC and lasts some 20 to 30 years. Proper maintenance and repairs from our commercial roofing contractors in Indiana will prolong its lifespan. It reflects heat, an advantage in hot regions.
Thanks to its durable rubber membrane, EPDM lasts 20 to 35 years, even in areas with harsh weather. It has been available for some 60 years and has proven its worth.
Installation, Repair, and Maintenance
We recommend working with highly-experienced commercial roofers in Indianapolis, as quality service plays a crucial role in your roof’s lifespan. How well it’s installed will significantly affect how long it lasts – any buckling or gaps will weaken it and hasten its demise. Regular, thorough inspections, maintenance, and repair also help prolong its lifespan.
The Takeaway
Your commercial roof’s lifespan depends on various factors, ranging from the material used to the weather it endures. A significant factor is the quality of installation, maintenance, and repair.