How Long Does Your Type of Commercial Building Roof Typically Last?

The roof is an integral part of the building where you operate your business. But we often overlook it until there’s a noticeable issue. It’s easy to focus on other areas of your commercial building when your roof is in great working condition. However, we believe it’s essential to know how long you can expect your type of roof to last. This info can help you determine if you need to call for repairs or replacement if an issue arises and prepare for the ensuing costs.

Fortunately, First Response Roofing explains the typical longevity of your type of commercial building roof and the factors that affect this longevity. Take a look.

How Long Should Your Commercial Roof Last?

This question doesn’t have a clear-cut answer, as several factors determine the longevity of a commercial roof. These factors may include the materials used, maintenance practices, when the roof was installed, the local weather, and many more.

Generally, however, a commercial roof can last between 10 and 40 years.

Roofing Materials and How They Impact Longevity

Below, we discuss some of the most common roofing materials used in commercial roofs and their expected lifespan:

• Asphalt – Asphalt roofs are expected to last between 20 and 40 years
• Polyvinyl Chloride – Otherwise known as PVC, carries a lifespan of 20 to 30 years
• Metal- Metal roofs typically last between 30 and 45 years
• Thermoplastic Polyolefin – Commonly known as TPO, has a general lifespan of  between 20 and 30 years
• Ethylene propylene diene terpolymer – Commonly known as EPDM, can last for 20 to 35 years.

Roofing materials, though fundamental, are just one aspect determining the overall longevity of your commercial roof. 

Other Factors Determining Your Commercial Roof’s Lifespan

• Slope

The slope of your commercial roof is a vital factor to consider, especially if your area gets lots of rain or snow. Flat roofs encourage water to pour on the surface; where else will it go anyway. If such water doesn’t find a way to flow down your roof and into the ground, it’s bound to settle at a low point on your roof until it evaporates. Such a low point on your roof can succumb to water damage, manifesting leaking problems.

• Installation

We cannot emphasize this enough; Get your commercial roof installed by a reputable and experienced commercial roofing company. Any blunders done or shortcuts taken during your commercial roof installation can ultimately affect the longevity of your roof.

Ask for proof of qualifications, photos of previously completed projects, reviews and referrals. Also, the cheapest option isn’t always the best. It may prove worthwhile to pay a little extra for a roof that will serve you for the next few decades.

• Ventilation

When we’re talking about roof ventilation, we’re referring to the attic space directly underneath your roof. Attic ventilation is crucial to prevent heat and moisture buildup. 

Without proper ventilation during the hot summer months, the heat buildup in the attic could quite literally bake your roofing materials. Built-up moisture in the attic can encourage rot and mold, which can render your building uninhabitable.

• Weather and Climate

While we have no control over the weather and climate, we can consider the weather conditions against the type of commercial roofing materials we use. It’s important to note that adverse conditions such as heavy snow, storms, hail and high winds can damage your commercial roof and cut down on its expected lifespan.

• Maintenance

Regular maintenance is the one proven way to keep your commercial roof in tip-top shape and notice issues before they escalate. You can hire professional roofing cleaners every once in a while. Additionally, some commercial roofing companies offer periodic maintenance visits, which also serve as inspections to ensure problems are caught and resolved promptly.

These are some of the factors to consider when installing a commercial roof, and they impact your roof’s longevity. However, these lifespan estimates are subject to change. Consider the type of roofing materials that can best withstand the test of time and hire a professional roofing company to handle the installation.

Your commercial roof can last anywhere between 10 and 40 years. If you’re experiencing issues with your commercial roof, we recommend talking to an experienced roofer. Don’t overlook roofing problems 10 years down the line just because the roofer promised a 30-year lifespan. And while you cannot help factors like local weather and climate, you can take preventative measures like maintenance and inspections to keep your roof in great shape for longer.