A warehouse roof represents approximately 30% of the structure, but it is responsible for protecting all of the materials, goods, and critical equipment needed to stay in business. An effective warehouse roofing system should protect from the elements, reduce operating costs, minimize ongoing maintenance, boost energy efficiency, and enhance the appearance of the building.

Contemporary roofing systems offer much longer lifespans than in the past, and many appropriate options are available to business owners. Determining which system is best for your business depends on many factors, such as:

available budget
climate and weather conditions
state and local building codes
construction quality
building usage

In this article, you’ll learn more about the five most popular options for warehouse roofing.

1. Modified Bitumen: Also known as mod bit, modified bitumen is a reinforced asphalt membrane mixed with plastic or rubber polymers for maximum malleability. It is delivered in rolls with a smooth or granulated finish which delivers exceptional durability and UV resistance. Mod bit roofing membranes can last for two decades or more. They also possess significant impact resistance, making them an excellent choice for roofs with heavy foot traffic or in regions with severe weather.
2. Built-Up Roofs: BUR roofs have been installed since the mid-1800s, but are not nearly as common today as they once were. Built-up roofs are made of multiple layers of asphalt and ply sheets. with the top layer made of either a reflective aluminum coating (smooth BUR), a mineral cap sheet, or pea gravel (gravel BUR). The roofs are durable and have fantastic longevity, with some roofs lasting up to 5 decades or more. However, this asphalt-based system lacks flexibility and can stress roof surfaces.
3. Single-Ply (TPO, PVC, EPDM): Single-ply roofing systems are made of a single layer membrane that can be fully adhered to roof surfaces with bonding adhesives or plates and fasteners.There are three main types of single-ply, all of which are considered to be cost effective and easy to install:
  - TPO (Thermoplastic Polyolefin): Layers of synthetic rubber and reinforcing scrim.(Lifespan 10–25 years)
  - PVC (Polyvinyl Chloride): Synthetic plastic polymer (Lifespan 15–30 years)
  - EPDM (Ethylene Propylene Diene Terpolymer): Synthetic rubber material (Lifespan 40 years)
  The gleaming white surfaces of TPO and PVC deliver excellent thermal reflectivity and UV stability, making them especially effective for buildings in warm, sunny climates. Black EPDM membranes absorb more of the sun’s heat, better for colder climates.
4. Metal: Metal roofing systems are excellent for warehouse roofs, with durability lasting as long as 80 years. All metal roofs are installed with either a low or steep-slope pitch to ensure drainage. There are several kinds of metal roofing:
  - Steel: Common installation with a reasonable price point. It is usually coated with aluminum or zinc to maximize reflectivity and resistance to corrosion.
  - Aluminum: Durable, lightweight, and easy to install.
  - Zinc: Excellent option those roofs exposed to chemicals, pollutants or saltwater air.
5. Liquid-Applied or Roof Coating Systems: Roof coating systems are installed directly over existing roof surfaces. These coatings create a seamless, watertight membrane that both restores and protects existing substrates from the elements. Silicone is the most popular roof coating available today, best known for its exceptional ponding water resistance. Urethane(polyurethane) is a xylene-based coating utilized for exceptional strength, durability, and adhesion. Finally, water-based acrylic coatings are primarily used on metal roof surfaces for thermal reflectivity and durability. Roof coating systems reduce the harmful effects of the sun on roofing surfaces and extend service life, alleviating the need for total replacement. Another significant benefit of liquid coating systems is its price point, approximately half that of other roofing alternatives. They are warranted to last anywhere from 10 to 25 years per appication, but can be recoated many times during their lifespans, adding to their longevity.

Learn More About Roof Coatings for Warehouse Roofing

If you have a warehouse in need of roof repair or replacement, don’t make any decisions until you speak with the experts at Unicoat Industrial Coating. We will come out to assess the situation, and provide professional recommendations as to how to proceed. Don’t replace your roof unnecessarily – call today to find out if roof coatings are right for your building.