Advantages & Disadvantages of a Shingle Commercial Roof

Every type of roofing system has its own unique advantages and disadvantages. When you’re looking for the right roof for your business — whether it’s a new build or re-roofing project — you should compare this information and see if it will meet your needs.

Like every type of commercial roof, shingle roofing systems are unique. They may work great for one business owner but not for another. That’s why it’s important that you look at this information before you order your new roof.

Pros of Shingle Roofing Material

• Low cost
• Eas(ier) to install than other roofing systems
• Resistant to harsh elements
• Variety of materials, colors & textures

The first and maybe the biggest advantage of shingle roofing systems is their cost. Compared to other roofing options, a shingle roof can be a cheaper option. The price will vary depending on the contractor you work with, the type of shingles you install, and where the building is located.

Another benefit of shingle roofs is that they are easy to install. Whether you’re installing them on a new building or you’re re-roofing, the job can be done quicker than if another type of roof were being installed. With a faster installation time, you can get back to business as usual.

Shingles are resistant to several elements, like ultraviolet rays and even fire. But only certain varieties of shingles resist fire. Being resistant to these elements, your shingle roofing system can avoid damage.

If you choose a shingle roofing system for your commercial building, you’ll have a number of different options available. Shingles are made from several different types of materials and are made in all kinds of different colors and textures. These options can give your business the look you want and can have other benefits too. If you choose a lighter color, it can reflect heat.

When you’re looking for the best roofing option for your business, it’s important to know what the disadvantages are.

Cons of Shingle Roofing Systems

• High maintenance
• Less durable
• Short lifespan (~20 years)
• Non-recyclable

Shingle roofing systems need more maintenance than other types of roofs. If you live in an area that sees high temperatures and lots of sunny days, the shingles can be further weakened and eventually crack. Shingles can be broken off by bad weather, are susceptible to moss growth, and can shrink and grow with great changes in temperature. Broken shingles can affect the roof and let in leaks, causing extra damage.

With its higher susceptibility to these effects, shingle roofs require more maintenance than other types. However, those fixes are usually fairly easy. To get the most out of your shingle roof, you need to make sure it’s given the care and attention that it needs. If you don’t have the time to maintain the roof or the extra income, it may not be the best choice for your commercial building.

Shingle roofs have an average lifespan of around 20 years, depending on the climate and maintenance they’re given. Compared to other types of roofs, this is not as long. A shorter lifespan means you’ll have to replace your roof sooner.

Finally, shingle roofs are not as environmentally friendly. When a shingle roof is at the end of its lifespan, the old shingles aren’t easily recyclable. And the process to make the shingles uses more energy, putting out pollution in the process.

Commercial Shingle Roofing Materials

Roofing shingles are made from a variety of different materials. Below are two of the most common types for commercial shingle roofing systems:

• Asphalt: Shingles made from asphalt can be either fiberglass or organic. Asphalt shingles are more waterproof than other types and more affordable as well. This type of shingle comes in a variety of different colors and styles.

• Slate: Slate shingles are more expensive, but they are longer-lasting than other types. It has better fire resistance and environmental friendliness. However, slate shingles require a long installation and are a more fragile material for your shingle roof.

Asphalt and slate are the most common shingle materials for commercial buildings. However, there are other materials used to make shingles that are not appropriate for commercial properties. Cedar is a popular shingle material for residential properties. Homeowners love the look of a cedar roof, but they need to complete thorough, frequent maintenance to keep it looking and performing its best. This is just not realistic for a commercial building.

Even after you’ve chosen a shingle roofing system, you need to select the right type. Each type can give your commercial building different properties and has different needs concerning their installation.

The material used for your shingle roof will have an impact. Since the material can affect the lifespan and other factors surrounding your roof, it’s an important thing to consider. Before you decide on a material, consider the needs of your business and your budget. Will the longer installation for a slate shingle roofing system be too much of a disruption for your business to handle? Would the extra cost of slate shingles be too much for your budget?

Consult with your roofing contractor to make the best decision on the material for your shingle roofing system.

Call David Maines for Your Next Shingle Roofing Project

When you need to install a new roof, call David Maines for a free estimate on a shingle roof for your commercial building. We’re the experienced and qualified experts when you need to find the best option that fits the needs of your business. For an excellent local commercial roofing contractor to help with your shingle roof installation or repairs, please contact us today!

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