A man is fixing a shingle on a roof.

Can Asphalt Shingles Be Used For Commercial Buildings?

Asphalt shingles are by far the most popular residential roofing material in the United States, and industry surveys have shown that they’re the primary source of revenue for over 80 percent of roofing contractors.

It is easy to understand why. Asphalt shingles are versatile, low-maintenance, easy to install, and relatively inexpensive. What about asphalt shingles for businesses, though? Is America’s favorite roofing material a viable option for commercial buildings, too?

What Are Asphalt Shingles?

Asphalt shingles consist of three main components — a fiberglass mat, the asphalt that surrounds it on both sides to create a waterproof roofing solution, and stone granules that increase the roof’s lifespan while contributing aesthetic value. They are designed to overlap to provide a watertight seal.

The three main types of asphalt shingles you’ll see on residential buildings everywhere are:

  • Three-tab shingles, also called strip shingles. This most basic type of shingle is cost-effective and relatively plain.
  • Dimensional shingles, also called architectural shingles, are thicker and consist of multiple layers. They are more aesthetically appealing and often designed to mimic the look of slate shingles.
  • Luxury shingles are the most advanced type of asphalt shingles, designed for high-end residential applications.

Asphalt shingles are designed to shed water on sloped roofs, which also offer protection against wind uplift. However, modified asphalt shingles are becoming increasingly popular as commercial roofing materials, especially for buildings with steeper or low-sloped roofs.

When Are Asphalt Shingles an Option for Commercial Buildings?

Asphalt shingles can be a fantastic option for businesses, so long as the roofing system is designed for commercial applications. In contrast to residential asphalt shingles, commercial shingle roofing usually:

  • Features reinforcement to enhance the durability of asphalt shingles in commercial settings.
  • Needs to be installed by a trusted, experienced roofing contractor.
  • Requires specialized underlayment to ensure the roof can drain water as needed.

Having said that, commercial asphalt shingles are a viable option for numerous businesses — and more could benefit from considering this roofing solution. Although asphalt shingles may not be suitable for flat commercial roofs, businesses in buildings with steeper or low-sloped roofs enjoy the same advantages as homeowners when they opt for modified asphalt shingles designed for commercial use.

Asphalt shingles for businesses are economical, easy to install, versatile, and relatively low-maintenance compared to commercial roofing solutions such as modified bitumen, BUR, or single-ply membranes. They are also durable, with high-end options having an expected lifespan of as much as 50 years. The other upside? Commercial asphalt shingles can add curb appeal, as they are available in various different styles and colors — in contrast to the utilitarian commercial roofs we’re all familiar with.

Ready to Explore Your Ideal Commercial Roofing Solution?

Do you hope to add aesthetic value and gain a durable, low-maintenance commercial roof that can serve your business well for decades? Commercial asphalt shingles may be your best option.

The Roof Mentors have been helping homeowners put good roofs over their heads for years. Our experienced roofers would be delighted to assess your commercial building to explore whether commercial asphalt shingles are a viable solution for your business.

Ready to take the plunge? Our 24/7 call center is ready to plan a full roof inspection around your calendar. You’ll get a free quote to boot!

A person in a red glove is holding a metal piece for roof installation.

Top Four Most Common Commercial Roofing Types in Dunn NC

As a responsible company owner, you are in charge of your firm, as well as for the well-being of your staff members. Therefore, as an accountable business owner, you must have a basic understanding of the many different types of roofing materials available. 

There are many different types of roofs you can find on commercial buildings in Dunn, NC, some of which are more durable than others. That being the case, we’ll make sure to cover some of the most common types of commercial roofing so you can have an idea of ​​what to expect.

 

Different Commercial Roof Designs

Before we delve into the most common commercial roof types in Dunn, NC, we have to mention that there are three main commercial roof designs important for understanding roofing types. These commercial roof designs include:

  • Flat roofs,
  • Steep slope roofs, and
  • Low slope roofs. 

Roof designs have a story worth mentioning in a separate blog, but since they go hand in hand with roofing types, we felt it important to briefly acknowledge them here. 

 

Top Four Most Common Types of Roofing Materials in Dunn NC

The following are the most common types of roofing materials: 

  • Single-ply roofing,
  • Metal roofing, 
  • Modified bitumen,
  • Built-up roof.

 

Single-Ply Roofing

The first type of commercial roof we will cover in this blog is single-ply roofing. Unlike traditional roof material types that typically involve many layers, single-ply roofing, as the name suggests, consists of only one layer. These types are considered single-ply:

  • EPDM roofs: EPDM roofs are all about durability and weather resistance. With that said, it’s ideal for flat and low-slope roofs. 
  • TPO roofs: TPO stands for thermoplastic polyolefins, and it focuses on energy efficiency and reflection.
  • PVC roofs: Last but not least, when it comes to durability and resistance to chemicals, PVC roofs are in a league of their own.

 

Metal Roofing

Metal roofing offers two primary types of systems: screw-down and standing seam metal. You might ask yourself what the difference is between the two, and the answer is straightforward: a standing seam uses a hidden fastener approach, while with screw-on metal, you can clearly see the fasteners. 

 

Built-Up Roof

Built-up roofs, commonly referred to as BUR roofs, have a long history of use, dating back to over a century in the United States. Their defining characteristic is the meticulous layering technique, where multiple layers of asphalt are applied between ply sheets over the roof deck and insulation.

 

Modified Bitumen

If the options we provided don’t sound adequate enough, maybe modified bitumen could be fitting for your property. Although they are considered similar to BUR roofs, the main characteristic of this type is that it combines the durability of traditional asphalt, with polymerized rubber or plastic.

 

Types of Roof Covering

There are two different types of roof coating:

  • Silicone roof coating, 
  • Acrylic roof coating.  

If you are looking for a solution that will extend the life of your roof, it wouldn’t be a bad idea to consider applying one of these types of roof coverings mentioned.

 

Give Your Business the Protection It Deserves With Our Various Types of Roofing Materials!

Despite the negative reputation caused by a few, we are dedicated to rewriting the roofing industry narrative. Our simple and clear-cut objective within the roofing sector is to foster trust and amplify awareness among property owners regarding the crucial significance of a roof that stands the test of time.

 

Want to know more about commercial roofing types in Fayetteville? Contact us for more information on roofing, and discover the best solutions for your needs!

A roof installation tool featuring the words "the concrete masters".

Which Roof Coating Performs Best for Fayetteville Building Owners?

Need extra protection on your roof? Consider applying some of the best roof coatings. These unique coatings act as protection, preventing damage to your roof from the weather and other environmental factors. But the best thing is not this! In addition, it lessens energy consumption and provides extra protection against leaks. This means you can rest easy knowing you’ll remain protected from Mother Nature’s elements.

Roof coatings come in a wide variety, each with its own set of advantages and methods of application. Acrylic, silicone, polyurethane, and asphalt coatings are among the best roofing coatings, and they usually come in liquid form. They can be applied using brushes, rollers, or spraying on the roof’s surface.

Acrylic Coatings

Acrylic-based coatings are good at protecting against radiation or hail damage and are also flexible enough to accommodate any changes in the shape or size of the roof membrane. Another benefit of this coating is that it’s entirely acrylic and can be applied in one or more layers.

When applying acrylic coatings, they should not be used when it’s cold outside or if there’s a risk of rain within a specified amount of time after application.

Silicone Coatings

Want to know more about the best silicone roof coating pros and cons?

Silicone roof coating is made from a silicone-based material that offers excellent protection against UV rays, extreme temperatures, and weather damage. They are highly durable and flexible, capable of adjusting to the roof surface. Since this is a reflective roof coating, their reflective properties make them energy-efficient, reducing heat absorption and cooling expenses.

On the other hand, it’s worth mentioning that this coating tends to be more expensive. Additionally, their application requires proper surface preparation to ensure adhesion and they are not suitable for all roofs.

Polyurethane coatings

Another option for roof protection is a polyurethane coating. This type of coating forms a continuous, watertight barrier that stops leaks and extends the life of the roof. You can choose from aromatic or aliphatic polyurethane coatings, both commercially available.

In order to further strengthen their protective qualities, aromatic and aliphatic polyurethane roof coatings are often used in combination with base and topcoats.

Asphalt coatings

Asphalt roof coatings are made from asphalt-based materials and offer excellent waterproofing protection. Furthermore, they provide a cost-effective solution and can help improve energy efficiency by reducing heat absorption.

However, it’s vital to ensure proper surface preparation before applying the coating for optimal adhesion and performance. Also, regular maintenance and reapplication may be required to maintain the effectiveness of the coating. But all in all, these types of coating offer an affordable and reliable option for protecting and preserving roofs.

Need Help With Finding Reflective Roof Coating for Your Business Property in Fayetteville?

At The Roof Mentors, we understand the significance of having a reliable and durable roof coating that will bring many benefits to your business. Therefore, whether you want to improve energy efficiency, avoid leaks, or prolong the lifespan of your roof, our skilled professionals are here for you.

With a firm dedication and years of expertise in the roofing industry, we have earned the trust of building owners in Fayetteville and the surrounding areas. Therefore, it’s our duty to deliver each of our customers impeccable and excellent customer service.

Get in touch with The Roof Mentors to schedule a thorough inspection, and we will help you choose some of the best roof coatings Fayetteville NC.