Are you a key decision-maker for your commercial building enterprise? Business owners and property managers must identify issues and formulate effective solutions. Choosing the appropriate roofing material to replace an aging or deteriorated roof can be daunting. There are many commercial roofing materials and products available. Is metal roofing a good option for your building? What factors should you consider when deciding if metal is the perfect fit for your situation?
Choosing Between Commercial Roofing Materials
The Amount Of Maintenance & Upkeep
When choosing a roofing system, business owners and managers should consider how much time and effort it’ll take to keep their roof in good shape. Some materials, like PVC, EPDM and shingles, may need more attention and repairs over time. On the flip side, metal roofing requires much less maintenance, making it a great long-term choice for anyone who wants a durable roof without the hassle.
The Compatibility Of The Local Climate
The climate in the Northeast is tough on roofs. Winters are cold and snowy, with ice and freeze-thaw cycles that can wreak havoc on roofing materials. Summers bring storms, heavy rain, and heat, while fall and spring offer unpredictable weather swings. Metal roofing is particularly well-suited for these conditions.
Metal panels shed snow easily, preventing the heavy buildup that can cause structural issues on flat or low-slope roofs. They’re also resistant to corrosion, so even with the frequent exposure to moisture and humidity common in the Northeast, your roof will stay in great condition.
The Cost Of The Roofing Product
Although metal roofing typically comes with a higher upfront cost than shingles, PVC, or EPDM, its long-term cost-effectiveness makes it a worthwhile investment. The combination of longevity, minimal maintenance, and energy savings helps recoup those initial expenses over the roof’s lifetime. Other roofing materials may be cheaper at first, but their shorter lifespan and higher maintenance needs can lead to frequent replacements and repairs, costing more in the long run. Metal roofs may last up to 70 years, compared to PVC and EPDM which may last 20-30 years, and shingles, which may last 10 years.
The Environmental Impact
How is the roofing material manufactured? What substances are used to create the roofing product? How will the roofing material be disposed of at the end of its service life? Non-renewable roofing materials may not be an option for particular applications, businesses, or industries. Metal provides an eco-friendly alternative.
Energy Efficiency for Every Season
Both metal and rubber roofs offer energy-saving benefits, but they do so in different ways. Rubber roofs, such as EPDM, are excellent insulators, helping to keep your building warm during the colder months. However, they may absorb heat during the summer, which can lead to higher cooling costs.
On the other hand, metal roofs are known for their ability to reflect solar radiation, reducing heat absorption and keeping your building cooler during the warmer months. This can significantly cut down on your energy bills, especially during hot Northeast summers. And while metal isn’t as insulative as rubber, it can be paired with high-quality insulation underneath, providing year-round energy efficiency.
Selecting A Commercial Roofing Professional
Commercial building owners and property managers in Southeast New York, Northeast New Jersey, Connecticut, and Massachusetts deserve the best commercial roofing experience. At Vanguard Roofing, we identify and install the perfect commercial roofing solutions, including metal roofing, for businesses.
Contact us today to learn more about the benefits of commercial metal roofing or to schedule an appointment.
