When talking about roofing options, commercial shingle roofs deserve special attention. These roofs are known for their versatility, durability, and cost-effectiveness. In this comprehensive guide, we will explore everything you need to know about commercial shingle roofs, from their types and installation process to their maintenance requirements, lifespan, cost, and more. We’ll also guide you on how to choose a roofer and the importance of regular roof inspections.
Understanding Commercial Shingle Roofs
What are Commercial Shingle Roofs?
Commercial shingle roofs are roofing systems made up of asphalt shingles designed for commercial buildings. Asphalt shingles are composed of a fiberglass mat coated with asphalt and ceramic granules. The granules provide color options and protect the asphalt from UV radiation. Shingles are available in different styles like three-tab or architectural, offering various aesthetic options for commercial buildings.
Compared to other commercial roofing materials like metal or membrane roofs, shingle roofs provide an attractive, cost-effective roofing solution. The layered installation creates dimensional and textural appeal. Shingles come in a wide selection of colors to complement any commercial building’s design.
Importance of Commercial Roofing
A commercial roof serves the critical functions of protecting the building interior and occupants from exterior elements. A roof must withstand weather conditions like hail, high winds, extreme heat, heavy rain, and snow loads. A quality commercial roof optimizes energy efficiency, reducing cooling costs in summer and heating expenses in winter.
Regular roof maintenance and timely replacement extends the lifespan of the roof. Investing in a durable commercial roofing system reduces lifetime costs compared to low-quality materials that require frequent roof repairs and replacement.
Benefits of a Shingle Roof
Asphalt shingle roofing provides commercial buildings with attractive, durable, and affordable protection. Shingles come in a wide range of colors and styles to complement any building. The layered construction sheds water, insulates from heat and cold, and resists wind uplift.
Shingles stand up to weather extremes, UV rays, and foot traffic better than other roofing materials. The small shingle size also makes for affordable repairs if sections become damaged. Lifetime warranties give business owners peace of mind for decades after installation.
Unlike smooth metal or membrane roofs, shingles have texture that helps camouflage any accumulated dirt or debris. Shingle roofs also dampen noise from rain and hail better than metal or tile roofs, creating a quieter interior space.
Types of Shingle Roofs
There are two main types of asphalt shingle roofs: three-tab and architectural. Three-tab shingles are a more traditional style with three cut-outs creating a tabbed look. Architectural shingles, also called dimensional or laminated shingles, have multiple layers creating extra thickness and a design similar to wood shake.
Three-tab shingles are generally more affordable and easier to install. Architectural shingles provide an enhanced appearance with shadow lines and thickness variations. They also have improved wind and impact resistance. Various colors, textures and designs are available in both shingle types.
Investment of Commercial Shingle Roofs
Installing a new commercial shingle roof is a significant investment for any business owner. High-quality architectural shingles designed for commercial buildings can last over 30 years with proper maintenance. The upfront cost is quickly offset by the durability and protection a new roof provides.
Regular maintenance is crucial to get the most out of a commercial shingle roof. Debris should be cleared from the roof at least twice a year to prevent premature wear or water damage. Catching minor repairs early on avoids more expensive issues down the road. Having a professional inspect the roof every 1 to 2 years can identify potential problems.
The lifespan of a shingle roof depends on factors like climate, roof slope, quality of installation, and regular upkeep. With proper maintenance, a commercial shingle roof will easily last 20-30 years in most regions.
Cost of Commercial Shingle Roofs
A new commercial shingle roof costs $6 to $10 per square foot installed. The total cost depends on the roof’s size, pitch, accessibility, regional labor rates, and choice of materials. Architectural shingles made for commercial applications cost more upfront but provide better durability and warranty coverage.
Asphalt shingle options like three-tab or laminated shingles offer budget-friendly options starting around $3 per square foot. However, these economical shingles last just 20 to 25 years for a business. High-end architectural shingles with enhanced wind resistance, algae protection, and warranty coverage provide the best long-term value.
Professional installation is critical, as incorrect slope or ventilation can void the shingle warranty. Hiring an experienced commercial roofing contractor protects your investment and prevents leaks or other issues down the road.
Installation and Lifespan of Commercial Shingle Roofs
Process of Shingle Roof Installation
Proper shingle roof installation is key to achieving maximum lifespan. First, the old roofing materials are removed and any damaged decking replaced. Leaks are patched and drainage issues addressed. Then a water-resistant underlayment or ice and water shield is installed.
The starter row of shingles goes down first, then the shingles are installed in rows moving up the roof. Shingles are fixed with roofing nails and adhesive strips for wind resistance. Proper alignment, spacing and exposure are maintained. Flashing, vents and ridges are installed, then any final touches are added to complete the roof.
Lifespan of Shingle Roofs
The typical lifespan of an asphalt shingle roof is 15 to 25 years. High-quality architectural shingles generally last 20 to 30 years. Proper installation according to manufacturer guidelines helps maximize lifespan. Additionally, regular inspections, maintenance and minor repairs as needed are key.
Location is also a factor—shingle roofs in areas with moderate weather conditions will last longer than those subjected to harsh storms, extreme temperatures, and intense UV exposure. Adhering to weight limits and avoiding overloading helps prevent premature failure.
Factors Affecting the Lifespan of Commercial Roofing Shingles
The lifespan of a shingle roof depends on several factors:
- Quality of materials: Premium architectural shingles last longer than basic three-tab shingles.
- Local weather: Hail, wind, heat and heavy precipitation reduce lifespan.
- Roof slope: Steep roofs shed water efficiently for longer roof life.
- Proper installation: Following manufacturer instructions for layout, nailing, sealing, and more.
- Ventilation: Good attic ventilation regulates temperature and moisture.
- Regular maintenance: Inspections and minor repairs prevent premature failure.
- Avoiding roof damage: From foot traffic, debris, overloading, and more.
Maintenance of Commercial Shingle Roofs
Like any roof, shingles require basic seasonal maintenance to achieve their full lifespan. Clearing leaves, branches, and other debris prevents premature wear and water buildup. Check flashing, vents, skylights, and other protrusions for damage too.
Catching minor damage early is critical. Resealing small cracks costs just a few hundred dollars, versus thousands for major leaks left unrepaired. Signs like sagging, cracked/missing shingles, or daylight visible under shingles indicate maintenance is overdue.
A professional roof inspection every year or two provides peace of mind. Inspectors check for wear, damage, moss buildup, and other issues not visible at ground level. Timely repairs identified during inspection prevents premature roof replacement.
Are you ready to start planning for a commercial shingle roof replacement or installation project? Contact the experts at Parsons Roofing today to get started with a project quote.
Choosing a Professional for Your Commercial Shingle Roofing Project
How to Choose a Roofer
Hiring a qualified commercial roofing contractor ensures proper installation and long-lasting performance from your shingle roof. Ask potential contractors about their specific experience with commercial shingle roofing.
Request photos of past commercial jobs to evaluate work quality. Reputable companies provide multiple references from business owners they’ve served. Review licensing, insurance status, certifications, awards, and online ratings as well.
Compare bids and material options to make the most informed decision. A roofer who communicates every step of the process will make for the smoothest install and provide the best ongoing maintenance.
The Importance of Regular Roof Inspection
Normal wear and extreme weather events can damage shingle roofs over time. Regular professional inspection identifies issues in need of repair before major problems or leaks occur.
Inspections check for damaged, curling, or missing shingles, obstructed drains/gutters, flashing issues around vents, and overall roof condition. The inspector should provide a detailed report with recommendations for any maintenance needed.
Catching problems early keeps costs down. For example, resealing curled shingles may cost a few hundred dollars versus thousands for leaks left unaddressed. Proper maintenance adds years of life to your roof.
Annual inspections provide peace of mind. Your roofer can advise what inspection frequency makes sense based on your roof’s age, material, and location. Ongoing maintenance ensures you get the full lifespan from your roof.
Partner With Parsons for Your Commercial Shingle Roof Needs
Whether you need a new commercial shingle roof installed on your building or preventative maintenance for an existing shingle roof, get started by contacting Parsons Roofing today.
