Industrial buildings offer unique challenges to the roofing community. With a different focus than commercial buildings, it is even more imperative that the roofing system provided meets the unique characteristics and demands of the business it protects.
The roofing needs of a potato chip company will differ greatly from the needs of a roofing material manufacturing plant. Though there are differences, there are also similarities in terms of desire for longevity, strength, durability, and cost.
This is where the experts truly shine. Working with Sully-Jones, you get the benefit of our decades of experience working with exactly these situations. We will advise you regarding what systems are best suited to protect your particular enterprise, while ensuring maximum return on your roofing investment.
Roof System Considerations
Particularly here in Southern California, flat roof styles are very common in industrial applications. Offering a nice, wide, open area for HVAC units, vents, solar panels, etc., the appeal is obvious. Flat roofs lend themselves to specific roofing systems.
Due to their lack of slope, waterproofing is one of the most important features the roofing system has to manage effectively. Ponding water is a death knell for the roof, so ensuring that water is unable to penetrate into the substructure is key to your protection.
A strong secondary consideration is the amount of sun and UV radiation we receive annually. Using a roofing system that offers a high reflectivity level, UV protection and chemical resistance improve the bottom line by reducing cooling costs within the building and maintaining better overall comfort of your staff.
There are 2 primary roofing system options suitable for a flat roof construction in Southern California – single-ply membrane and coatings. Each offers benefits and drawbacks, depending on the type of business you have.
If your industrial building has a high slope roof, your issues are different, and the recommended roofing systems will be as well. If you meet this scenario, please reach out to us for suggestions and recommendations.
Flat Roof Systems
Each of the 2 primary roofing systems afford different benefits to the building. Though not designed as an in-depth examination of the options, this should serve as a good introduction to the topic.
Membranes. Also known as single-ply or single-ply membranes, these are sheets of rubberized materials that roll out across your existing roofing system. Available with differing chemical compositions, the various types offer levels of protection to UV radiation, chemical resistance, fire resistance, grease, and other contaminants. Almost all are available in multiple colors, for improved aesthetics, as well as highly reflective options to reduce solar heat to the building. The primary membrane choices are PVC, TPO and EPDM.
Coatings. Coatings begin life as a liquid. This liquid is sprayed or rolled onto your prepared, existing roofing system, including the flashings and areas where protrusions meet the roof. As it dries, the coating forms a single, seamless, monolithic layer of waterproofing across the entire roof. That’s right – no seams. Clearly a system without seams is one that is much more resistant to water issues. Like membranes, there are differing chemical compositions, which offer different benefits. The most common coatings are silicone (frequently used as a base-coat) and acrylic (generally a top-coat due to high reflectivity).
For more information on the roofing system most suitable for your industrial business or to schedule your free consultation, call us at 619-444-0150 or 800-611-3110. We offer repair and replacement roofing services, as well as inspections and preventative maintenance programs for your industrial building needs.