What materials are best for industrial roofs?

Does your industrial building need a new roof?

Roofing systems form the first line of defence against the elements, so need to be made from durable materials that will stand the test of time.

Although there are several options available, the best kind of roofing for your industrial building often depends on the pitch (slope) of your roof and the weather conditions.

But to help you make an informed decision, allow us to explain more about the different types and their benefits.

 

Thermoplastic Polyolefin (TPO)

TPO is a single-ply roofing membrane that’s made up of ethylene, propylene, rubber and fibreglass.

Supplied in various sheet sizes, it’s typically used to cover flat industrial roofs.

TPO membranes are usually white. They reflect sunlight in the summer, allowing your business to use less energy to keep your building cool which, in turn, helps you save money on your energy bills.

When installed and maintained properly, TPO roofing systems can last up to 30 years – offering excellent durability and puncture resistance. They’re also capable of resisting fire, wind, UV rays, and chemical exposure.

 

Metal

Industrial roofing contractors often use metal for pitched roofs, particularly tough galvanised steel which is pressed into a corrugated or box profile.

One of the reasons why roofers use metal roofing is that it offers high durability and decades of protection against the elements. And let’s face it, we receive more than our fair share of wet, inclement weather here in the UK!

Thanks to modern advancements, most metal roofing systems will resist indentation and last up to 40 years before they start to rust – sometimes even longer if they’re installed and maintained correctly!

Metal roofing is surprisingly lightweight, meaning it can be installed with ease, without putting too much pressure on the load-bearing roof support structures.

 

Modified bitumen

Modified bitumen is typically installed on industrial buildings with flat roofs or those with a very gentle slope.

This roofing material can withstand harsh exposure to the elements – protecting against damage from rain, hail, snow, ice and UV rays.

Unlike other types, modified bitumen has five layers of protection, making it one of the most reliable roofing systems for industrial buildings.

It’s durable enough to withstand heavy foot traffic, which is ideal for industries that expect to have a lot of people walking on the roof.

 

EPDM

EPDM, short for Ethylene Propylene Diene Monomer, is a synthetic rubber that’s incredibly durable – making it a fantastic choice for flat or low-pitched industrial roofs.

This roofing material is applied in a single piece, meaning there are no seams, which reduces the risk of leaks.

EPDM is heat and weather resistant and comes in black or white. It’s also easy for industrial roofing contractors to install, maintain and repair.

 

Update your industrial roof today

Metal, modified bitumen, TPO and EPDM all have their advantages, but if you’d like an expert opinion on which one is right for your industrial building, then it pays to contact industrial roofing contractors. 

Roofing Consultants Group have vast knowledge and experience when it comes to industrial roofing projects and will gladly share their expertise.