It would be best to have an on-site consultation with a commercial roofing contractor to decide which roofing system suits your unique situation. Building use, local climate, and budget must be considered when selecting the best type of roof. However, here’s a brief comparison of two popular and trusted types: metal vs. built-up roofing.

First, we will give you a brief overview of these two types of commercial roofing systems. Then, we will compare the cost-effectiveness and durability of these popular commercial roofing options.

Metal Roofing Systems

Metal roofs have longevity in the commercial flat roofing industry and continue growing in popularity. Metal systems are used on commercial roofs. They are long-lasting and come in a wide variety of styles and colors.

Attractive architectural metal systems that you would see on shopping malls and customer-facing commercial buildings often require a structural supporting deck underneath the metal with a watertight underlayment.

However, some situations call for structural metal systems, which are attached to a metal framework and are strong enough not to require any supporting deck.

Metal roof systems are used for steep slope and flat roofs. Standing seam metal roofs are popular as they keep fasteners and screws from being exposed to the elements.

Cost-Effectiveness and Durability of Metal Roofs

Metal roofs can last 30 years or more – depending on the quality of the installation process. The systems also must be professionally maintained and inspected to enjoy such longevity.

For pricing on a metal roof system please contact us today at (866) 312-4154.

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Built-Up Roofing Systems

Built-up roofing systems (BUR) are among the oldest systems in the commercial roofing industry. As the name implies, this type of commercial roof is “built up,” so it has many layers. The alternating layers consist of roofing felt and asphalt, which is applied hot.

Even though BUR roof systems have been used for over a century, these systems have been proven effective. Unlike single-ply roofing systems, built-up roofs are redundant systems. If one layer fails, another layer holds strong against penetrations.

Within the BUR roofing family, you’ll find modified bitumen roofing systems. This system is considered “modified” because synthetic rubberized polymers have been added to the asphalt. The polymers provide increased resistance to brittleness in colder temperatures and increased sheet elasticity.

Cost-Effectiveness and Durability of Built-Up Commercial Roofs

BUR systems stand up to foot traffic. And even though BUR systems are durable, they require professional maintenance and inspections.

A modified bitumen system life span typically lasts between 20 and 30 years if the appropriate maintenance is performed.

Discuss Commercial Roofing Systems With an Expert Roofing Contractor

As mentioned earlier, you can only select the perfect roofing system for your commercial building if you discuss building use, climate, and budget.

For more information on metal and built-up roofing systems, contact AAA Roofing.

AAA Roofing is the leading commercial roofer in Riverside, San Jose, and across California and Idaho.

Schedule a consultation today with a member of the AAA Roofing team.

Key Takeaways About Metal Roofs vs. Built-Up Roofing Systems

  • Both metal roofs and BUR roofs have been used for over a century.
  • Metal roofs are attractive and durable.
  • Built-up roofing systems have redundant layers and can handle foot traffic.
  • All commercial and industrial roofs require quality installation and periodic maintenance and inspections.