If you want to have a more efficient commercial building design, membrane roofing materials are a great option. These materials can be rubber roofing systems that are designed to provide a lightweight, energy-efficient, and impermeable surface for commercial buildings. There are options and features that you want to consider before installing a rubber roof, and the following guide will help with this:

• Commercial Roof Drainage Systems—The decking and drainage systems are the first areas that need to be planned before the installation of rubber roofing. Therefore, the decking materials are also going to need to be designed for the watershed. The flow of the watershed should go to the drainage systems to prevent issues with standing water. You want enough roof drainage grates and lines too. This ensures the water can easily flow off the roof when it rains.

• Underlayments and Insulation—The underlayments and insulation are other important aspects of the rubber roof design. The decking can be steel materials that are covered with rigid plywood sheathing. If you are using plywood, it will need an asphalt moisture barrier layer. You may also want to consider spray foam beneath the roof decking for added insulation. Rigid foam board is another option to consider, which will solve problems with insulation and moisture damage that are common with plywood decking materials.

• Different Types of Roof Membranes—If you are planning on installing rubber-like roofing membranes, there are several options. These options include rubber membranes, EPDM materials, and modern membrane materials. They can be a layered design, or they can be single-ply roofs (single layer). In addition, these materials can have a traditional black color or be light-colored. The light colors help to reflect heat to keep buildings cool in warmer climates. In addition, the surface of materials can be coated with a light-colored sealant to protect them and improve the efficiency of buildings.

• Rubber Roofing Maintenance and Repairs—Once the rubber roofing materials are installed, they are going to need minor maintenance and repairs. The biggest part of maintenance is keeping the roof clean and making sure drain systems are clear of any debris that can clog them. You will also want to inspect your rubber roofing annually. When inspecting, look for signs of the materials coming to lose at any seams and issues with punctures that need to be patched.  

When you get ready to add a membrane roof to your business, contact a rubber roofing contractor and ask about these solutions. These materials will give your business a lightweight, durable and energy-efficient solution for the roof design.