The overall health of a commercial building, to a large extent, depends on the type of roof installed. While an average commercial roof is designed to last from 10 to 40 years, there are a number of factors which affect its longevity.
Factors Affecting the Life Expectancy of a Commercial Roof
The lifespan of a commercial roof will vary widely depending on the roofing material, the weather conditions it’s exposed to, as well as how well it is maintained.
1. Roofing Materials
Various roofing materials offer varying life expectancies. Here is a list of common commercial roofing materials and their longevity:
- Thermoplastic polyolefin (TPO) – can last between 22 and 30 years.
- Ethylene propylene diene terpolymer (EPDM) – can last between 22 and 35 years.
- Polyvinyl chloride (PVC) – can last 20 to 30 years.
- Metal roofs can last anywhere between 30 and 45 years.
- Asphalt shingle roofs can last between 20 and 40 years.
2. Weather
The integrity of a commercial roofing system is largely affected by inclement weather. Harsh climatic conditions can over time wear down roofing materials, causing the roofing system to degrade. The freezing ice of winter, blistering temperatures in summer, and decomposing leaves in autumn can all wear down a commercial roof rapidly.
However, preventative roof maintenance and timely repairs can significantly lengthen the lifespan of your commercial roof.
3. Type of Roof
Aside from weather conditions, the type of roof will also influence how long your commercial roof will remain functional. You can choose from pitched roofs, low-slope roofs, or flat roofs. Each comes with pros and cons which affect longevity.
Although flat roofs are generally quicker and more economical to install, poor drainage is often a common culprit of rapid degradation. Low-slope roofs offer better drainage, but heavy snow can still add substantial weight to the roof and weaken the structure.
4. Maintenance
Routine inspections and maintenance can prevent small issues from becoming major problems. Always schedule periodic roof inspections and maintenance to ensure your commercial roof remains functional for years before requiring replacement.
Work with a Certified Commercial Roofer!
Other than the factors discussed above, any flaws in the installation process can significantly shorten the life of your commercial roof. When you need a new commercial roof installed or repair work done, choose an experienced, well-qualified roofing contractor to do the job. Contact Red Diamond today for all your commercial roofing needs in the Denver and Fort Collins area. We provide quality work to ensure optimum longevity for your commercial roof.
