Category: Commercial Roofing in Dallas Texas

Which Is Better For A Commercial Roof – Asphalt Shingles or Cedar Shakes?

Cedar roofing is preferred by many over asphalt roofs for its natural appearance and traditional character.

As well-loved as cedar shakes may be, they are definitely at the higher end of the price scale for shingle roofing, causing many to pass on them.

Price aside, is one better than the other?

Here is a quick comparison of the two to help decide if you want to have roofer services install asphalt or cedar on your home or building.

All About Cedar Shakes

Cedar shakes are a traditional wood type of shingle-type roofing adored by many for the classic look they give to any home or structure.

Having stood the test of time, they have been used as a roofing material for centuries if not longer due to the many qualities cedar possesses.

Cost seems to be the biggest deterrent for most people.

  • Durability and Longevity - Rough cut, with a thicker bottom than a standard shingle, cedar shakes will last around 30 years if well-maintained and periodically coated in a protective sealant to keep moisture out. They are durable against most weather conditions and undamaged by ice, snow, hail, and wind, though fire-resistance is a problem.
  • Ease of Installation - Because they must be nailed down individually, cedar shakes can take considerably longer for a roofer service to install.
  • Appearance - The classic, chestnut-colored look of new wood that matures to a soft silver patina over time is the main attraction for those who like cedar shake roofs. Cedar wood offers a timeless look like no asphalt shingle or other wood or material can match.
  • Maintenance Requirements - Like other wood roofing, cedar shakes must be cleaned every few years to keep algae and moss that eat away at the wood from growing on them. These roofs should also be periodically coated with a wood sealant to slow UV damage that can turn them brittle and rot from absorbing too much water.
  • Cost - Cedar shake roofing usually costs about one-third more than a comparable installation of premium architectural or dimensional asphalt shingles.

All About Asphalt Shingles

Asphalt roofs have advanced considerably over the years, with today’s products being much more attractive and long-lasting than the very first iteration of this roofing.

Available in many shapes and styles that mimic other materials, it has become the most popular type of shingle roofing mostly due to the price.

  • Durability and Longevity - Asphalt roofs come in many variations in size, look, style, and quality, so the longevity of each product will differ anywhere between 20 and 40 years. Premium asphalt roofing is fairly durable against most weather conditions and more fire-resistant than wood roofing, but can be blown off easily in strong winds and is easily damaged by hail and ice-damming.
  • Ease of Installation - Asphalt shingles are one of the easiest materials for roofer services to install, so the installations go fairly quickly.
  • Appearance - Though designer architectural and dimensional shingles can mimic other materials including wood shakes and shingles, they still do not compare in beauty to natural cedar shakes that go on bright and slowly age over time and give a traditional look to any structure.
  • Maintenance Requirements – Asphalt roofs are nearly maintenance-free except for a cleaning every so often if there is any algae or mold found growing on it due to moisture.

  • Cost - Premium, longer-lasting dimensional shingles usually cost one-fourth to one-third less than a roof made of cedar shakes.

Cedar Shakes or Asphalt Shingles - Which Is Better?

Taking the different categories into account, it is easy to see that cedar shakes surpass asphalt shingles in durability and preferred appearance, while the asphalt prevails in ease of installation, fewer maintenance requirements, and lower cost.

Premium lifelong products also last longer than cedar shakes.

Which Is Best For You?

Although it seems the answer to this question might be clear, it really depends on your personal preferences and the details that matter most to you.

Ultimately, both are superior options in shingle roofing that will perform well with care and look great on a house or building.

The main factor about cedar shakes is their classic look and the amount of character they add to a building.

If appearance is a prime element for you and you are fine with paying a little more for roofer services and replacing your roof a little sooner, cedar is a great choice.

When a great look at a lower cost is your goal, dimensional shingles including ones that look like cedar shakes are the next best option!

Interested in Premium Commercial Asphalt Roofs in Dallas TX?

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Looking at Commercial Roofing Material – Is Any Really Sustainable?

The earth’s environment is suffering more each year due to pollution, destruction of habitats, and many other practices that are changing the planet forever.

In response to this problem, many manufacturers of building supplies including those producing commercial roofing materials have begun designing products that are more environmentally friendly.

The question is, are those products sustainable, too?

If you’re looking for a truly environmentally sound commercial roof, pay attention to sustainability while choosing your materials.

What Is Sustainability?

Though they are related, sustainability is not the same thing as environmental friendliness to which it is commonly confused with and compared.

A sustainable natural material like on a commercial roof is one that’s sourced in ways that does not deplete a natural source or environment of that material.

It’s a method of harvesting what is essentially an unlimited material as long as the land is left undamaged so that material can continue to replenish itself.

Environmentally-Friendly Roofing Materials Vs. Sustainable Ones

Sustainable raw materials are environmentally-friendly, but not all environmentally-friendly materials are sustainable.

In terms of commercial roofing materials, it has the most to do with natural materials that have to be grown or harvested, how quickly they replenish, and what is being done throughout the world to keep those resources replenishing.

Environmentally-friendly materials used by commercial roofers include those that have a reduced carbon footprint.

Many are more thermo-effective, reducing the utility costs and the pollution made from creating energy while others are made of materials that can either be recycled and used again or buried to decompose naturally and become a part of the soil.

Durability and longer life expectancy, and cleaner production practices all contribute to environmental-friendliness; however, most of these products are still not sustainable.

What Sustainable Roofing Products Are Available Today?

While there are quite a few environmentally-friendly commercial roofing materials available today, the list of products that are truly sustainable is fairly small.

Materials that must be mined for or are made using petroleum products are not sustainable as those are non-replenishable resources.

Products made from cement are also not sustainable due to the pollution generated to produce it.

There is debate over whether shingles made from clay are sustainable and manufacturers claim that since it is a nearly unlimited material, it is as close to sustainable as anything can be.

What truly sustainable materials are available?

Wood shakes and shingles are the most sustainable commercial roof materials out there, since trees can be harvested and then regrown.

Of course, the degree of sustainability depends on the type of wood, where it’s harvested, and whether it’s being sustainably replanted; however, overall wood is considered sustainable.

Other materials that are considered as nearly sustainable due to their ability to be recycled and how they are produced include metals like steel, aluminum, copper, and as mentioned above clay tiles.

Green or living commercial roofs are also considered sustainable, especially when used to reduce utility bills and grow food and other vegetation.

Beyond these options, the higher the percentage of recycled content in a product, the more sustainable it is as it reduces the amount of new resources that must be sourced.

Sustainable Roofing Materials Scarce, But Available

There is more to environmental-friendliness and commercial roofs than just recyclability and biodegradability.

Sustainability is another issue to consider when shopping for the materials used by roofers.

Though truly sustainable materials are rare, sticking with eco-friendly products containing the highest amount of recycled materials is the best alternative for commercial roofing products!

Want a Sustainable Commercial Roof in Dallas Texas?

Contact the Roofing Experts at Comercial Roofers Dallas Now!

Call (469) 677-8677 for More Info!

The Abundant Benefits of Commercial Tile Roofs!

Commercial tile roofs are exceptionally beautiful, adding great character to any home where they are installed; however, they are also expensive, certainly more so than a simple asphalt shingle roof.

So why even consider tile roofing, other than the appearance?

There are actually quite a few reasons why it’s worth the added expense to have a tile roof installed on your home or small building!

1. Energy Efficiency

When properly installed by tile roofers, these tiles can make your commercial property more energy-efficient and reduce your heating and cooling bills because of their thermal properties.

They absorb UV rays and prevent them from passing into the building, releasing them at night after the sun goes down and also absorb interior heat in winter without releasing it into the atmosphere, keeping a home warmer overall.

2. Durable and Long-Lived

Tile roofs are very durable when expertly installed by commercial tile roofing companies and able to withstand storms, strong winds, and some hail without becoming damaged - plus, they are also fire-resistant.

The material is known to last upwards of a century or more, making the investment in commercial tile roofs a very efficient one over its lifetime.

3. Easy Installation and Maintenance

Although most commercial tile roofing companies must follow a specific process to correctly install these tiles, overall it’s a fairly straightforward process that goes reasonably quickly.

Once installed, tiles remain waterproof and require little to no maintenance other than to wash them periodically and check for cracked or chipped tiles and then replace them to maintain the integrity of the whole installation.

4. Environmentally Friendly

Another great thing about choosing a tile roof is that they are all made from natural materials and involve a more environmentally-friendly production process.

In addition, when they are removed by commercial tile roofers, the material can be either ground and recycled or simply disposed of where they will decompose and become a part of the earth once again.

5. Unaffected by Rot or Insects

Unlike most other materials installed by tile roofers that can be affected by mold, mildew, algae, and rot from moisture or damaged by insects or other pests, tile is not affected by any of that.

Made from earthen materials, tiles do not provide a surface on which any of these organisms or creatures can invade.

6. Many Materials and Varieties

Roofing tiles are made from a variety of organic materials including clay, cement, ceramic, and slate.

The first three materials are made using molds and available in various shapes and styles suitable for different architectural styles and can also be coated with glazes that offer a variety of colors.

7. Add Beauty and Character

Last and certainly not least, commercial tile roofs add so much beauty and character to a small building; they can greatly increase curb appeal, raise property value, and make a building really stand out in the neighborhood.

So Many Positive Benefits to Tile Roofs!

When the time comes to for a new roof on your small business location, there are countless materials options for you to choose from.

Because of the great benefits you can get from tiles, it’s definitely worth looking into them and be rewarded with a lifetime roof installation from a commercial tile roofing company that can transform the look of your building!

Want A Beautiful and Beneficial Tile Roof in Dallas Texas?

Talk to the Pros at Commercial Roofers Dallas!

Call (469) 677-8677 Today!

Looking at Roofing Material – Are Any Really Sustainable?

The earth’s environment is suffering more each year due to pollution, destruction of habitats, and many other practices that are changing the planet forever.

In response to this problem, many manufacturers of building supplies including those producing roofing materials have begun designing products that are more environmentally friendly.

The question is, are those products sustainable, too?

If you’re looking for a truly environmentally sound roof, pay attention to sustainability while choosing your materials.

What Is Sustainability?

Though they are related, sustainability is not the same thing as environmental friendliness to which it is commonly confused with and compared.

A sustainable natural material like on a commercial roof is one that’s sourced in ways that does not deplete a natural source or environment of that material.

It’s a method of harvesting what is essentially an unlimited material as long as the land is left undamaged so that material can continue to replenish itself.

Environmentally-Friendly Roofing Materials Vs. Sustainable Ones

Sustainable raw materials are environmentally-friendly, but not all environmentally-friendly materials are sustainable.

In terms of commercial roofing materials, it has the most to do with natural materials that have to be grown or harvested, how quickly they replenish, and what is being done throughout the world to keep those resources replenishing.

Environmentally-friendly materials used by commercial roofers include those that have a reduced carbon footprint.

Many are more thermo-effective, reducing the utility costs and the pollution made from creating energy while others are made of materials that can either be recycled and used again or buried to decompose naturally and become a part of the soil.

Durability and longer life expectancy, and cleaner production practices all contribute to environmental-friendliness; however, most of these products are still not sustainable.

What Sustainable Roofing Products Are Available Today?

While there are quite a few environmentally-friendly commercial roofing materials available today, the list of products that are truly sustainable is fairly small.

Materials that must be mined for or are made using petroleum products are not sustainable as those are non-replenishable resources.

Products made from cement are also not sustainable due to the pollution generated to produce it.

There is debate over whether shingles made from clay are sustainable and manufacturers claim that since it is a nearly unlimited material, it is as close to sustainable as anything can be.

What truly sustainable materials are available?

Wood shakes and shingles are the most sustainable roof materials out there, since trees can be harvested and then regrown.

Of course, the degree of sustainability depends on the type of wood, where it’s harvested, and whether it’s being sustainably replanted; however, overall wood is considered sustainable.

Other materials that are considered as nearly sustainable due to their ability to be recycled and how they are produced include metals like steel, aluminum, copper, and as mentioned above clay tiles.

Green or living roofs are also considered sustainable, especially when used to reduce utility bills and grow food and other vegetation.

Beyond these options, the higher the percentage of recycled content in a product, the more sustainable it is as it reduces the amount of new resources that must be sourced.

Sustainable Roofing Materials Scarce, But Available

There is more to environmental-friendliness and commercial roofs than just recyclability and biodegradability.

Sustainability is another issue to consider when shopping for the materials used by commercial roofers.

Though truly sustainable materials are rare, sticking with eco-friendly products containing the highest amount of recycled materials is the best alternative for commercial roofing products!

Want a Sustainable Commercial Roof in Dallas Texas?

Contact the Pros at Commercial Roofers Dallas Now!

Call (469) 677-8886 for More Info!

Will Your Commercial Roofing Material Last A Long Time?

Commercial roofs are expensive, probably the most expensive single component on any building.

Costing tens of thousands of dollars even for a less expensive version, you surely want to invest in a roof that’s going to last a while.

Do you know how long yours will last?

Though every type of commercial roofing material comes with a suggested lifespan, there is a lot more at stake when projecting just how long yours will continue to protect your house or work building!

Roofing Material Lifespan

Different roofing materials have different lifespans, which is a highly important consideration when you’re having a new one installed by qualified commercial roofers because it really is a case of you get what you pay for.

Less expensive commercial roofing materials in most cases are not going to last as long as higher quality but more expensive materials in their class, so keep that in mind when choosing.

To get an idea of how long your commercial roof could last in ideal conditions, start by looking at the suggested lifespan for different popular materials as suggested by the manufacturers:

  • Various Types of Asphalt Shingles - Ranges from 20 to 40+ years depending on product.
  • Wood Shingles and Shakes - Shingles up to 30 years, shakes up to 40 years.
  • Clay, Ceramic, Concrete - 50 years or more.
  • Slate - Up to 100 years or more.
  • Metal Shingles or Panels - 40 to 70 years, sometimes more.
  • BUR Roofing - 20 to 30 years.
  • Asphalt Roll Roofing - 5 to 10 years.
  • Rubber - EPDM roofing 15 to 25 years, TPO commercial roofing 10 to 20 years, recycled rubber shingles 50 to 75 years.

Workmanship

When guesstimating the lifespan of any type of roof, it’s important to understand that projected lifespans as stated by the manufacturer are how long the material should last under ideal conditions.

For starters, this means that the material was correctly applied by skilled commercial roofers who have followed the manufacturer’s installation instructions so the materials are properly laid and stay secure.

Poor workmanship can significantly decrease the lifespan of any commercial roof, which is why it’s so important to hire a reputable and knowledgeable contractor to install yours.

Maintenance and Repairs

The second important factor that can affect how long your commercial roof actually does last in spite of whatever the manufacturer suggests is how well you take care of it.

All roofs need some maintenance, which varies; some like architectural shingles need very little while others like wood shingles need a lot more.

Keeping up with maintenance will ensure your commercial roofing stays in great condition and lasts its full lifespan.

Regular inspections will detect problem areas if followed by prompt commercial roofer repairs to correct those problem areas to maintain your roof and prevent it from wearing out before its time.

Will Your Roof Last A Long Time?

Other than inexpensive asphalt roll roofing, most commercial roofs will last at least two decades.

While that may seem like a long time, time flies before you realize it and replacing any roof whether a home or a business is expensive.

How long will yours actually last?

That will depend on the materials used, how they were installed, and the kind of care your commercial roof receives throughout its lifetime.

If you choose wisely, work with a qualified commercial roofer, and perform proper maintenance, yours should last as long as its suggested lifespan or even longer!

Need To Have A New Commercial Roof Installed?

Commercial Roofers Dallas Provides Expert Commercial Roofing Services!

Call Them at (469) 677-8677 Today!

A Close Look At Various Flat Roofing Systems!

Roofing in Dallas Texas

Commercial roofing is very different from residential roofing since much of it involves protecting buildings with flat tops. If your building has a flat roof, you need a system that will be watertight, thermally efficient, and long-lasting in all kinds of weather. Today there are three main options for you to have installed by flat roofing services, each with various advantages and disadvantages. Discuss the options with your contractor to determine which one is best for your building.

Built Up or BUR System

BUR roofing is a commercial system that is done by applying multiple layers of roof tar and asphalt gravel to create a watertight layer over the top of the building. This system has been in use for more than 100 years and is one of the simplest and lowest cost methods still in use today.

In addition to ease of installation and relatively low cost, BUR commercial roofing offers a few other advantages that have made it so popular over the years. BUR is very durable in most climates and provides a thick, protective layer that is not easily damaged.

Yet BUR does have a few significant disadvantages, including the fact that it is very messy to install and has reduced flexibility in cold weather. This can lead to cracks that progress to damaging leaks. Additionally, BUR is not very environmentally friendly as it is made from toxic materials and has low thermal efficiency, leading to higher utility bills.

Modified Bitumen System

Modified bitumen commercial roofing is an improvement on the BUR system. This system uses multiple layers of thick fabric made from fiberglass, polyester, and asphalt gravel that are adhered to the top of the building to form a waterproof barrier. When correctly installed by flat roofing services who are experienced with this material, modified bitumen offers the same advantages of BUR, plus a few more.

It is flexible in all temperatures and highly crack and impact resistant. Modified bitumen is also easier and cleaner to install than BUR in most cases.

The main drawbacks with modified bitumen are the need for some type of heat appliance to install it and, like BUR, the lack of thermal efficiency. To avoid fires that could be caused by using torches to seam this material, many flat roofing services now use cold installation techniques or hot air welding machines. Thermal efficiency can be easily improved by applying UV reflective coatings.

Membrane Systems

Single-ply membrane roofing systems are newer systems that are rolled onto the top of the building and then fastened down in a variety of ways. They are available in either EPDM rubber or plastic polymer. These systems offer many benefits over BUR and modified bitumen systems as they are very clean to install and provide a consistent, durable, and lighter weight barrier over your building.

Membrane systems form tight and flexible layers over any flat roof. There are also some options, like white TPO, that offer highest levels of energy efficiency available in commercial products.

Disadvantages with single-ply membrane systems are they can be punctured or torn, making repair necessary. In addition, they can be more costly than other options; however, this is usually offset by lower utility costs and higher durability.

Commercial roofing has come a long way in recent years, with many new products available to handle a wide variety of roofing challenges. While BUR is still in use today, modified bitumen and membrane systems have become more popular due to the many advantages they offer. If it is time to consider a new roof for your commercial building, work with experienced flat roofing services who can assist you in making the right installation choice!

Seeking Flat Roofing Services In Dallas Texas?

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What Is The Value of Single Ply System Roofing?

Roofing in Dallas Texas

Single ply system roofing has become a preferred option in commercial roofing today due to the many advantages it offers. In the past three decades, membrane systems have improved considerably, now providing a cleaner and easier option for your roofing needs. Before you invest in another asphalt-based, layered system, consider the value of single-ply membranes and how they can work for you.

Easier, Cleaner Installation Process

In comparison to BUR systems that require the spreading and curing of multiple layers of odorous, messy, and toxic materials, single ply system roofing is much easier and cleaner to install. It only requires that the membrane be rolled out and then fitting and fastening down. These systems are also more environmentally friendly, requiring few, if any, toxic preparations to adhere and seal them.

Minimal Maintenance Required

When properly installed, membrane roofing requires only the basics in terms of yearly maintenance. Regular inspections to check fasteners and seals as well as observe for leaks is all that is necessary in most cases.

Lightweight and Energy Efficient

Membrane commercial roofing is much lighter than BUR, creating less stress on your building. When installed in white or lighter colors, membrane systems are also more reflective, making them more energy efficient in warmer climates.  

Multiple Types Available

There are multiple single ply system roofing products available today to fit various needs according to climate, building construction, and budget. EPDM membranes are made from rubber products, while TPO and PVC membranes are constructed from thermoplastic and polymers. Each type provides different advantages, such as different seaming and fastening methods as well as varying degrees of UV, acid rain, and wind resistance.

Fully adhered systems may be preferable over mechanically fastened membranes in high wind regions and some ballasted varieties are also available. Your commercial roofing service can help you choose the best option for your building.

More Durable In the Long Run

Membrane roofing can also be more durable than a BUR installation on commercial buildings because it suffers less UV damage. This reduces the chance of leaks caused by cracks in the surface. It is also less likely to blister, is more flexible than many other materials and remains impervious to water as long as the installation remains well-sealed and affixed.

A Cost-Effective Option

While single ply system roofing is more expensive than BUR, its many advantages considerably outweigh the lower price of BUR. Between its lighter weight and minimal maintenance requirements, you are less likely to have to deal with expensive repairs or stress to your building. Higher reflectiveness and greater energy efficiency means lower cooling costs.

The faster and cleaner installation process equates to fewer hours of labor and lower material and cleanup costs. Most importantly, higher weather resistance means less chance of leaks that can cause substantial damage to your building over time.

Of course, getting the most from membrane systems does require installation of the right system and ensuring that all required maintenance is provided; the end result is a more reliable and cost-effective commercial roofing option. Before you settle for roofing based on price alone, look into the many benefits of protecting your building with one of the strong, convenient single ply system roofing choices available today!

Considering Single Ply System Roofing In Dallas Texas?

Talk To The Roofing Experts At Roof Top Services!

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