Roll Roofing

What can Roll Roofing do for your Business?

Property owners who are initiating new projects need to know about commercial roll roofing, its applications, and its benefits and drawbacks as well. As someone who is making an investment in the structure’s appearance and/or integrity, it’s important to educate yourself on all options currently available. One such option is called “roof rolling,” and it’s used in numerous practical applications involving the installment, repair or replacement of structural coverings.

What Is Commercial Roll Roofing?

Instead of featuring typical roof shingles which carry a high price for the investor and contractor, many buildings are getting equipped with commercial roll roofing materials in an effort to cut costs and preserve curb appeal. As a more affordable and somewhat equally durable alternative, roll roofing requires a simple installation process and minimal upkeep.

Some might think that installing these types of materials is easy, but that’s just not the case. In fact, it requires much more than simply rolling out a large piece of linoleum or metal to do it right. So, before running out to your local home supply store for some rolls, be sure to properly research the pros and cons to determine whether or not it’s actually something that will work for you.

Essentially, rolled roofing is synthetic construction product that’s being used by commercial landowners and developers around the world. It consists of an oil-based, mineral surfaced asphalt material and it can weigh as much as 75 pounds per roll while measuring up to 100 square feet in total surface area. Although residential supplies are generally sold in almost every home improvement store nationwide, commercial roll roofing materials are usually only acquired through a licensed contracting company that specializes in those kinds of alternatives.

The Pros and Cons

Often referred to as MSR, commercial roll roofing has a wide variety of advantages and disadvantages that need to be carefully discussed before any materials are purchased. Although this alternative is somewhat similar to asphalt shingles, there are several differences to consider, including but not limited to the following:

PROS

  • MSR is significantly less expensive than typical asphalt, ceramic, wood and/or slate shingles.
  • Installation can sometimes be done by the property owner, although a commercial rolled roof is a generally more complex project and therefore more difficult to DIY.
  • It’s an affordable option for low-incline roofing projects.
  • A commercial rolled roof can be installed extremely quickly, sometimes in a matter of just a few short days.

CONS

  • Some property owners find this particular roofing material unattractive, plus many HOA communities won’t allow it to be installed on the properties they manage.
  • There are limited color choices available (typically only black or green).
  • The material and installation process can sometimes reduce the durability of the overall roofing system, often sustaining tears, bulges and discolorations over time.
  • MSR has a relatively limited lifespan by comparison with other roofing materials.

Keep in mind that, despite the pros and cons, it’s important to think about whether this alternative is right for your property. Remember, a commercial rolled roof can reduce the resale value of your structure if it’s not installed properly by a professional.