Choosing the right roofing system for your commercial or industrial building is crucial. The right roof ensures long-term performance, durability, and energy efficiency.
Choosing the right roofing system for your commercial or industrial building is crucial. The right roof ensures long-term performance, durability, and energy efficiency. Selecting a system that fits your building’s needs — like a warehouse, office, or unit— can save time and lower maintenance costs.
In the UK, the main types of commercial roofing systems are:
- Metal Roofing
- Single-Ply Membranes
- Built-Up Roofing (BUR)
- Composite Panel Cladding
- Green Roofs
Each has unique advantages, such as climate resilience, energy efficiency, and ease of maintenance. In this guide, we break down these roofing systems, their benefits, and help you make an informed decision.
With over 30 years of experience, our experts will ensure you choose the best solution for your property’s needs.
Metal Roofing Offers Durable Protection for Your Commercial Building
Metal roofing is often chosen for commercial buildings in the UK. It is particularly suited for warehouses, factories, and retail spaces. These systems use strong materials like steel, aluminium, and zinc. They can handle extreme weather and offer lasting protection.
Metal roofs are known for their exceptional durability and last up to 40-60 years with minimal maintenance. With this in mind, standing seam panels are a trusted choice. They provide excellent protection against water and strong winds. While the initial cost may be higher, the low maintenance and long lifespan make them a cost-effective choice over time.
Key benefits:
- Longevity: 40–60 years of reliable performance
- Fire-resistant with minimal upkeep
- Weather-resistant, ideal for exposed sites
Single-Ply Roofing is Cost-Effective & Energy-Efficient
Single-ply roofing systems, including EPDM, TPO, and PVC, are ideal for flat or low-slope roofs. These lightweight membranes are quick and easy to install. They also provide outstanding protection from weathering. Their reflective properties help reduce cooling costs.
Here’s what makes them a great choice for businesses focused on energy efficiency:
- EPDM (Ethylene Propylene Diene Monomer): This system is rubber-based and UV-resistant. It combines durability with an affordable price.
- TPO (Thermoplastic Polyolefin): Known for energy efficiency, it reflects heat, reducing cooling costs.
- PVC (Polyvinyl Chloride): Ideal for industrial settings, PVC offers excellent chemical resistance.
Key benefits:
- Energy-efficient, especially TPO and PVC
- Quick installation with minimal disruption
- Durable and cost-effective for flat roofs
Built-Up Roofing (BUR) Provides Reliable, Long-Term Protection for Large Commercial Spaces
Built-up roofing (BUR), also known as “tar and gravel roofing,” is a traditional, multi-layered system that has stood the test of time. It consists of bitumen layers reinforced with fabric and finished with gravel. BUR is ideal for large commercial buildings requiring extra insulation and waterproofing.
BUR roofs are highly durable and can withstand heavy foot traffic and equipment placement. Though installation is more time-consuming, BUR offers excellent insulation and long-term performance. Proper maintenance can extend the lifespan to 30 years.
Key benefits:
- Excellent insulation properties for year-round savings
- Resistant to harsh weather and foot traffic
- Long lifespan (20–30 years)
Composite & Profiled Roof Cladding is Strong, Energy-Efficient Roofing for Large-Scale Buildings
Composite and profiled roof cladding systems are popular for industrial and commercial buildings. They offer great strength and thermal efficiency. These systems use metal facings and an insulation core. This makes them great for big commercial spaces, like warehouses and distribution centres.
These systems are quick to install and provide excellent protection against the elements. They also offer a low-maintenance solution, requiring fewer repairs than traditional roofing materials. Composite panels can also be customised with various colours and finishes. This gives businesses the flexibility to match their building’s look.
Key benefits:
- High thermal efficiency and low maintenance
- Ideal for large-scale commercial buildings
- Weather-resistant and versatile, with customisable finishes
Green Roofs Are Eco-Friendly, Sustainable Roofing Solutions for Modern Businesses
Green roofs are becoming increasingly popular for urban commercial buildings in the UK. These eco-friendly systems layer vegetation and soil over a waterproof membrane. This provides benefits like improved insulation and stormwater management. As a whole, they help reduce the urban heat island effect, improve air quality, and offer a natural aesthetic to urban spaces.
Green roofs need a higher initial investment and regular upkeep. However, they lower cooling costs and support sustainability in the long run. Green roofs are a smart choice for businesses wanting to improve their environmental impact.
Key benefits:
- Environmentally friendly, with stormwater management benefits
- Provides natural insulation for energy savings
- Aesthetic and ecological benefits for businesses
How to Choose the Best Roofing System for Your Commercial Property
Choosing the right roofing system for your commercial building involves several key factors. First, consider the purpose of your building; for warehouses or factories, metal roofing and composite cladding provide strength and durability. For office buildings or retail spaces, a single-ply membrane or green roof looks better and saves energy.
Next, think about the climate in your area. In regions with heavy rainfall or snow, BUR or pitched roofs provide excellent drainage. For warmer regions, TPO or PVC membranes improve cooling efficiency and reduce energy costs.
Finally, balance the budget with maintenance. EPDM and single-ply systems are cheap and easy to maintain. Metal roofing and slate need a bigger investment, but they save money over time and require less care. Consider both upfront and ongoing costs when making your choice.
Why Jade-Aden is the Trusted Choice for Your Commercial Roofing Needs
Selecting the right roofing system is crucial for your commercial building. It ensures protection, boosts energy efficiency, and supports long-term performance. With a variety of roofing systems available, it’s important to select one that meets your building’s unique needs and budget.
At Jade-Aden, we offer bespoke roofing solutions designed for reliability and energy efficiency. With over 30 years of experience, we ensure your roof is installed to the highest standards so you have peace of mind for many years to come.
Call 01202 622252 or schedule a professional site assessment and let us help you make the best choice for your building’s future.
