The industrial roofing you choose for your building will have a big impact on its energy efficiency, aesthetic, and durability, which is why you need to consider it carefully. While there are many options, there are four common materials that are used for a variety of reasons.
Jade-Aden Services has over 30 years of experience building commercial and industrial buildings for a range of sectors. We’re experts on all the roofing materials available and will use our wealth of knowledge to recommend the best material for your project.
In this blog, we discuss the top four common roofing materials for industrial buildings, sharing the pros and cons of each so that you can make an informed decision.
Built-up profile cladding
Built-up profile cladding is a popular industrial roofing option because it provides protection from the elements and is a visually appealing facade.
This material is made from metals (e.g., steel or aluminium) or composite panels and consists of several layers, including an outer weather-resistant surface, insulation, and an inner structural component. The layers are usually built up on-site, hence the name.
Pros of built-up profile cladding
- Durability - this material is highly durable, withstanding harsh weather conditions.
- Low maintenance - minimal maintenance is required.
- Insulation - an insulating layer is included, making the industrial roofing material energy-efficient.
- Aesthetic versatility - cladding is available in a variety of colours, styles and finishes, offering design flexibility.
- Ease of Installation - it is relatively easy to install, saving time and labour costs.
Cons of built-up profile cladding
- Weight - additional layers within the material add weight to the roof, meaning you will need a strong structural framework to support the cladding.
- Potential for corrosion - metal cladding can sometimes be susceptible to corrosion if their protective coatings are damaged. Regular maintenance should prevent this.
- Environmental impact - production and transportation of the materials can have a significant footprint.
Built-up profile cladding offers many advantages, but some considerations should be discussed before choosing it. Call our team on 01202 622252 to discuss this option for your project.
Composite cladding
Composite cladding is another popular industrial roofing option. This cladding differs from built-up profile cladding as it doesn’t have the same layering. Usually, this material is made by combining two materials, normally wood and plastic, to create a strong and durable option.
Pros of composite cladding
- Durability - composite cladding is highly durable and weather-resistant.
- Low maintenance - this material doesn’t need regular painting, staining or sealing, so is easy to maintain.
- Aesthetic versatility - a range of colours, styles and finishes are available so you can choose a look that will suit your brand image.
- Sustainability - many composite cladding options are made from recycled materials, making it an environmentally friendly choice.
- Weather-resistance - composite materials are designed to withstand harsh weather conditions, including UV exposure, moisture, and temperature fluctuations.
- Thermal efficiency - you can include built-in insulation, enhancing the thermal efficiency of the building.
Cons of composite cladding
- Weight - composite cladding can be heavier than traditional wood or vinyl siding, which may require additional structural support and increase installation costs.
- Thermal Expansion - composite materials can expand and contract with temperature changes. If not properly accounted for during installation, this can lead to warping or other structural issues over time.
Speak to our team to learn which type of cladding would be best for your industrial roofing.
Fibre cement
Fibre cement roofing is made up of environmentally friendly, asbestos-free reinforced fibre content sheets. This type of industrial roofing is typically found on agricultural buildings.
Pros of fibre cement roofing
- Durability - it is highly durable and can withstand extreme conditions, such as heavy rain, wind, hail, UV exposure, rot and rust.
- Low maintenance - it requires minimal maintenance compared to traditional roofing materials like wood or metal.
- Fire resistance - it is non-combustible and provides excellent fire resistance, which enhances the safety of buildings.
- Aesthetic versatility - it can mimic the appearance of other materials, such as wood shingles, slate, or even clay tiles, offering flexibility in design.
- Longevity - often lasting 30 to 50 years, fibre cement has a long lifespan.
- Eco-friendly - this material can be made from sustainable materials and has a lower environmental impact.
- Thermal insulation - the material provides good thermal insulation, helping to maintain comfortable indoor temperatures and potentially reducing energy costs.
Cons of fibre cement roofing
- Weight - fibre cement is heavier than other materials, so will require a stronger structural framework.
- Brittleness - while durable, this material can be brittle and prone to cracking if mishandled or subject to heavy impact.
- Limited colour options - the range of colours available is limited compared to other materials.
- Moisture sensitivity - fibre cement can absorb water if not properly sealed and maintained.
Learn more about fibre cement by calling our team on 01202 622252 today.
Rainwater systems
Rainwater systems are the final common industrial roofing option and are often referred to as rooftop rainwater harvesting systems. They are designed to collect and utilise water that falls on the rooftop using components such as gutters, downspouts, filters and storage tanks.
Pros of rainwater systems
- Water conservation - collecting rainwater reduces reliance on local water supplies, conserving resources.
- Cost savings - using rainwater can reduce water bills.
- Environmentally friendly - reducing runoff from roofs can decrease the risk of soil erosion, reduce flooding and minimise pollution in local water bodies.
- Sustainability - it promotes sustainable water use by utilising a renewable and natural water source.
- Healthier plants - as rainwater doesn’t have the chemicals found in tap water, it is ideal for irrigation and promoting healthier plant growth.
Cons of rainwater systems
- Maintenance - regular maintenance is necessary to keep the system functioning properly.
- Water quality - without adequate filtration and treatment, rainwater can be contaminated with pollutants, such as dust, leaves, bird droppings, and other debris.
- Storage limitations - storage tanks have limited space, meaning you have restricted storage for water.
- Climate dependence - the system's efficiency is heavily dependent on rainfall.
- Space Requirements - you need sufficient space for the system’s tanks and infrastructure.
We can install a variety of hard-wearing plastic, aluminium, and metal rainwater systems on your roof, so get in touch with our expert team if you are interested in this industrial roofing option.
Industrial roofing experts
Jade-Aden Services are experts in industrial roofing and buildings. We provide an end-to-end service that includes designing, installing and maintaining buildings and their roofing.
Our teams are reliable and trustworthy, getting the work done efficiently and without hassle so you can focus on other priorities.
Using the highest quality materials and modern installation techniques, you can be confident in our work as we install a functional and aesthetically pleasing industrial roofing solution for your building.
Get in touch with us today by calling 01202 622252 or completing our online contact form to request a callback.
