Commercial Roofs: Balancing Functionality and Aesthetics
Whether you’re looking to upgrade your current commercial roof or you’re starting from scratch, it’s important to consider both functionality and aesthetics. The roof of your commercial property plays a significant role in the overall look and feel of the entire building. While the main role of your roof is to protect what’s inside your building, having both a functional and aesthetically pleasing roof can have a positive impact on how people view your business. In this blog post, we will explore ways business owners can balance aesthetics and functionality when building their commercial roof.
Choose the right materials
In order to achieve total functionality, you must choose the proper materials for your roof. If you don’t choose the correct materials, your entire building structure will be compromised. When determining what type of roof is best for you, you should take into account your geographical location and your business use. Because Cambie Roofing is a Canadian-based roofing company, we know how harsh the climate can be on roofing systems. This is why we have a variety of recommendations for commercial projects.
Modified bitumen
Modified bitumen roofing is a very popular choice for commercial roofs in Canada. Using various layers of polymer and asphalt, this is a cost effective and durable option.
Thermoplastic olefin
Next, thermoplastic olefin (TPO) is an energy efficient roofing material that has grown in popularity. TPO roofs are made of single-ply membranes that are welded together to form a seal. This means no moisture is able to penetrate, allowing for a resistant roofing system.
Ethylene propylene diene monomer
Another popular roofing material used on commercial projects is ethylene propylene diene monomer (EPDM). EPDM is a synthetic rubber which is great at protecting against the elements. Whether it be harsh winds that rip through a city for an afternoon or a scorching week-long heat wave, EPDM will protect your building.
Polyvinyl chloride
Another roofing material we thought we should mention is polyvinyl chloride (PVC). This system is wonderful at deflecting the sun’s rays so if you live somewhere with plenty of sunlight, this might be the best option for you. PVC systems are also very lightweight which makes them easier to install on roofs of all sizes. Take advantage of energy efficiency for your commercial building after installing a PVC system!
Metal roofs
Lastly, if you want a low maintenance energy efficient roofing system, you should consider installing a metal roof on your commercial property. While they can be costly to install, they have a very long lifespan which will save you money on repairs down the line. Metal roofs have become very popular among Canadian business owners because they are great at withstanding harsh environmental conditions. On the other side, metal roofs have a modernized feel and can make your building stylish, energy efficient and functional.
Roofing aesthetics
Once you’ve picked out the right roofing materials and systems for your commercial building, the next step is to figure out how to make it look appealing! Whether your building has a flat roof or a sloped roof, there are simple things you can do to achieve your desired look! Are you going for a sleek and modern design or do you want your building to stick out from its surroundings? Either way, there are ways you can achieve your desired look.
Colours and designs
Do you think your roof is lacking colour? Consider installing tiles or shingles that compliment the rest of your building’s appearance. You can add various accent colours to your roofing scheme to make it stand out or just one neutral colour if you’re looking to achieve a more sleek appearance. If you want to take it a step further, consider adding designs/artwork to the roof. This has become very popular among business owners with artistic backgrounds and companies focused on things like graphic design and exterior decorators. You can search for local artists in your area who might be interested to take on an outdoor challenge.
Solar panels
Solar panels have become increasingly popular among commercial building owners. You can get the panels installed in ways that compliment the look of your building while also showing your potential customers that you care about your carbon footprint. There are plenty of ways to integrate solar panels into your roofing system while also adding style.
Inviting features
If your employees and/or customers regularly access your roof, adding some lighting can make your roof that much more inviting. This includes things like string lights, lantern lights and LED strips. Some other ideas include comfortable seating options, water fountains and greenery. These things will help improve the experience people get when they visit your roof.
Green roofing systems
One of the coolest ways you can improve the aesthetics of your commercial building is installing a green roof. Not only do these systems provide beautiful alternatives to regular roofing systems, they positively impact the environment, promote biodiversity, improve air quality, regulate your building’s temperature and so much more.
Conclusion
Balancing functionality and aesthetics may seem challenging when it comes to your commercial roof. It is important to consult the professionals before making any changes to your existing roof or before designing a brand new roof. The experts at Cambie Roofing can assist you with choosing the most functional materials for your project while also giving you recommendations on how to make your roof look its best. Cambie Roofing makes roofing easy, thanks to more than 75 years of experience in the industry. Contact us today for a free estimate or if you have any questions about your project.