Roofing Blog | Premiere Roofing & Gutters

Is a New Roof a Good Investment?

May 16, 2022/in Residential Roofing Services /by Garron Lytton

Your roof is the most important part of your home’s exterior, but it’s not always easy to tell when it’s time to replace your roof. Waiting too long to schedule a roof replacement can put your home at risk, which can lead to more costly repairs, storm damage, and leaks.
With so much to gain from a new residential roof, there’s no reason to put off roof replacement. Whether you’re looking to sell your home or make a long-term investment, here’s why a new roof is a smart investment.

#1 – New Roofing Boosts Your Home’s Resale Value

When you’re selling your home, a new roof is always a powerful marketing tool. Prospective buyers appreciate a new roof because it saves them the hassle of residential roof repair after buying a new home.
In some cases, buyers will err on the side of caution and avoid putting offers on homes with older roofs. If your roof is nearing the end of its lifespan or leaking, it’s worth replacing before listing your home.

#2 – Durable Roofing Protects Your Home from the Elements

Even if you’re not selling your home, residential roofing in North Carolina is well worth the investment. Residential roofing services can protect your home from the elements, giving you the peace of mind that you deserve.

If you’re not totally sure what condition your roof is in, schedule a residential roof estimate in North Carolina to see if a new residential roof would be the best option.

#3 – New Roofing Increases Your Home’s Curb Appeal

If you’re looking to find ways to increase your curb appeal, residential roof installation in North Carolina is the answer. A new roof can make your home really stand out from the rest—and your neighbors are sure to notice when they pass by.

After all, a damaged roof isn’t a pleasant sight to see. Your neighbors will be quick to spot broken shingles and weather damage. A roof with missing, curling, or rotting shingles can take a toll on your curb appeal, but Catawba County residential roofing services can restore your home.

#4 – Quality Materials Have an Impressive Lifespan

With incredibly durable roofing materials, a new residential roof is a better investment than ever. For example, metal roofs last significantly longer than traditional shingle roofs. They’re also 100% recyclable and energy-efficient, helping you cut down on energy costs.

At Premiere Roofing & Gutters, our team has in-depth experience with all types of roofing materials. Not sure where to start? Our highly experienced, friendly professionals are ready to assist you in choosing the best roofing material so you can bring your dream home to life.

#5 – You Can Choose the Best Option for Your Home

Every home is unique, and every homeowner deserves a roof that fits their unique needs, budget, and preferences. We offer multiple types of residential roofing, including:

GAF shingles, which feature advanced materials to offer unrivaled protection
Synthetic cedar shake, which is energy-efficient and requires minimal maintenance
Metal roofs, which resist weather damage and lower home energy costs

Count on Premiere Roofing & Gutters for Professional Roof Replacement

Premiere Roofing & Gutters specializes in residential roofing services in Hickory, NC. Our roofing experts will address your questions and concerns so you can choose the best option for your home.

Ready to transform your home with a beautiful new roof? Fill out the contact form below or call us today to schedule a roof estimate in North Carolina.

commercial roof maintenance service north carolina

When Should A Commercial Roof Be Replaced?

May 11, 2022/in Commercial Roofing Services /by Garron Lytton

The roof of your commercial building probably needs to be replaced if you notice any of the following problems:

Water damage to the interior ceiling or attic
Bumps or blisters on the rooftop
Gaps between overlapping seams
Cracked, curling, or missing shingles (in the case of a shingle roof)
Evidence of weather-related damage

At Premiere Roofing & Gutters, we specialize in providing commercial roof inspection, replacement, and repair to the people of Charlotte, Hickory, and the surrounding areas. Get in touch with our office today if you need our help.

A closer look at those five warning signs

You should suspect trouble with your roof if you notice any of these issues:

Water damage to the attic or ceiling – which can take the form of stains, puddles, mold growth, or a strong mildew odor. You may also see sunlight coming through the roof itself.
Blisters or bumps in the roofing membrane – this problem is usually caused by gases that have built up between the roof’s exterior layer and the sub-roofing.
Loose seams – commercial roofing membranes like TPO or EPDM are laid out in sections, with overlapping seams along the edges. If those seams are coming apart, then your roof has probably suffered serious damage already.
Shingle problems – commercial shingles are just as vulnerable to damage as their residential counterparts. You’ll know you have a problem if the shingling is cracked, curled, or has lost its grain.
Evidence of storm or wind damage – like corroded fasteners, dented panels, or exposed sub-roofing.

Why ignoring these warning signs is not an option

The consequences of ignoring commercial roof damage are too great to risk. Here are just some of the problems you may face unless you take immediate action:

Electrical fires: due to rain or melted snow coming in contact with the building’s wiring.
Illnesses or allergy symptoms: caused by germs or allergens spread by contaminated rainwater.
Partial or total roof collapse: not only can this destroy your building, it can also pose a serious hazard to occupants of the building.

How Premiere Roofing & Gutters can help

The best way to deal with these issues is to contact us today for a complete commercial roof inspection. Here’s how we can help:

By diagnosing the cause of the problem: we’ll tell you exactly what’s going on with your building. We’ll also prepare a commercial roof estimate for your review.
By protecting your roof from further damage: we’ll install a commercial-grade membrane over the damaged sections. This will provide temporary relief while we carry out more extensive measures.
By completing the necessary work: this can range from minor repairs to complete commercial roof installation, depending on the extent of the damage.

Our technicians are experts when it comes to all types of roofing materials, including TPO, EPDM, metal panels, synthetic roofing shakes, and tar-based built-up roofs (BURs). You can trust us to do the job right.

Commercial roofing replacement you can trust

For commercial roof replacement in North Carolina that you can depend on to be done right and done right the first time, choose Premier Roofing & Gutters. We have been in continuous operation for more than 20 years. Our rates are fair and our work is guaranteed. Get in touch with us today if you need help with your commercial roof.

5 Compelling Advantages of Metal Roofing

Although asphalt shingles are the most commonly used type of roofing material, homeowners may want to take a closer look at the compelling advantages of residential metal roofing in North Carolina. The benefits of metal roofs are numerous. Plus, with a range of color options to choose from, a metal roof can nicely complement any type of exterior home aesthetic.

Metal roofs have an exceptionally long lifespan

One of the top advantages of metal roofs is their longevity. A standard shingle roof can last about 25 years, depending on the specific type of shingles used and the weather conditions to which their subjected. In contrast, it’s not unusual for a metal roof to last about 40 to 70 years. If you opt for a metal roof made from zinc or copper, it might even last up to 100 years. Although metal roofs do require more of an upfront investment than a shingle roof, they are well worth the cost. A metal roof will pay for itself simply by not having to be replaced often.

Metal roofs can increase the value of your home

The last thing a homebuyer wants to do is replace the roof within a few years of moving in. Homebuyers know that metal roofs have an incredibly long lifespan, and that’s why they are willing to pay more for a home that features one. Increased property values are one of the most compelling advantages of metal roofs.

Metal roofs are fire-resistant

A fire is every homeowner’s worst nightmare. They put families and pets at risk of losing their lives, and destroy homes and the possessions within them. A house fire is a stressful, life-changing event even if everyone makes it out safely. It makes sense to choose building materials that are as fire-resistant as possible. Metal roofs cannot catch fire. In the event of a lightning strike, having a metal roof means having one less problem to worry about.

Metal roofs are incredibly durable and resistant to strong storms

North Carolina sees some pretty strong storms during an average year. It’s not unusual to experience strong wind gusts, hail, and even tornadoes. Fortunately for homeowners with metal roofs, a metal roof is capable of withstanding winds up to 140 mph. Many metal roofs offer superior impact resistance as well, allowing them to withstand the effects of hail.

Metal roofs offer enviable energy efficiency

The cost to heat and cool a home will usually trend upward. Savvy homeowners who are interested in improving the energy efficiency of their homes will want to install a metal roof. When installed properly, it’s possible for a metal roof to reduce cooling costs in the summer by as much as 40% and heating costs in the winter by as much as 15%.

Experience the advantages of metal roofs for yourself

Metal roofs can offer your home a significant advantage, and so can choosing an experienced crew to perform your residential roofing installation in North Carolina. At Premiere Roofing & Gutters, we’ve been installing metal roofs in the Hickory, Wilmington, and Blowing Rock areas for years. We proudly offer both corrugated and standing seam residential roofing in North Carolina. If you’re not quite sure if you’d like to make the switch to a metal roof yet, we also do shingle installations. Call today to schedule your free, no-obligation residential roof estimate in North Carolina.

How Often Do Flat Commercial Roofs Need to Be Replaced?

May 9, 2022/in Commercial Roofing Services /by Garron Lytton

On average, a flat commercial roof won’t last quite as long as a sloped roof because it is more susceptible to the elements. Flat roofs do not readily slough off water, ice, and snow. However, they are still an excellent choice for commercial buildings for several reasons. For instance, a flat roof is the only practical choice for large commercial buildings. That said, these property owners will need to plan on scheduling an inspection for a flat roof replacement more frequently than other types of roofs.

The average lifespan of a flat commercial roof

Different types of flat roofs have varying expected lifespans, depending on several factors. These might include whether it’s been treated with a roof coating (which makes it last longer) and whether small areas of damage have been promptly repaired. On average, flat roofs have the following expected lifespans.

Flat EPDM Roof – 20 to 30 years
Flat TPO Roof – 15 to 20 years
Flat Metal Roof – About 50 years
Built-Up Roof (BUR) – 20 to 30 years

Extensive rips and tears along the seams

Often, the damage due to wear and tear shows up first along the seams of the roofing material. It is the point at which two pieces of material are joined together. In this case, it’s possible to repair minor damage to a flat roof seam. However, if the damage isn’t detected and repaired promptly, a flat roof replacement will likely be necessary.

Persistent and substantial water accumulation

A flat roof appears flat to the untrained eye. However, even a flat roof will have a very slight slope to help prevent standing water from accumulating. Over time, however, the roof deck can become warped. As a result, some areas may sink in slightly, allowing pools of water to accumulate. When water is allowed to accumulate on a flat roof, more damage will quickly follow. At that point, it’s time to schedule an inspection and an estimate for a commercial flat roof replacement.

Blistering and cracking

Blistering and cracking are unique to flat roofs from years of exposure to sunlight and high temperatures. If the roof membrane appears to be cracking or developing blisters or bubbles, it’s time to call the experts.

Schedule an inspection and flat roof replacement in NC today

When commercial building owners notice the warning signs of roof failure, they turn to the local leaders in commercial flat roof replacement: Premiere Roofing & Gutters.

Our experienced crew provides commercial roof replacement in North Carolina, including both flat and sloped roofs. We specialize in EPDM, TPO, BUR, and metal roofs. We also offer flat roof coatings to increase the longevity. Based in Hickory, we proudly serve commercial building owners from Blowing Rock to Wilmington to Boone and beyond. Call today or fill out our form below to schedule your complimentary commercial roof inspection and commercial roof estimate.

residential roof replacement in north carolina

4 Things To Know Before Installing A New Roof

March 28, 2022/in Residential Roofing Services /by Garron Lytton

The average homeowner only needs to replace their roof once or twice during their lifetime, depending on when they bought their first house. Because of this, it’s not unusual to feel a bit uncertain when it comes time to address the issue of a worn-out roof. It’s important to choose a residential roofing contractor in North Carolina who will take the time to answer all of your questions and explain what to expect. The following are a few of the things you should know before installing a new roof.

You Can Choose To Switch Your Type Of Roof

Before installing a new roof, give some consideration to whether you want the same type of roof you currently have or if you’d like to switch to a different material. For instance, if you currently have a shingle roof, you might want to think about switching to metal. Metal roofs have a substantially longer lifespan (about 40 to 70 years, compared to about 20 for shingle roofs). Plus, they are 100% recyclable, not flammable, and can withstand very high wind speeds.

On the other hand, metal roofs are also more costly upfront. If you’re watching your budget, you might be tempted to stick with a shingle roof, or to transition from a metal to a shingle roof.

You Can Opt For A Roof Coating For Added Protection

Some roofing contractors offer the option to add a coating when installing a new roof. The extra expense is typically worth it, since a roof coating extends the lifespan of your roof and enhances its protection against leaks. Plus, roof coatings help your home become more energy efficient.

Your Insurance Plan May Cover Your New Roof Installation

A homeowner’s insurance policy won’t always cover a new roof installation. However, if your current roof was extensively damaged, such as during a storm, then your insurance should cover its replacement. Talk to your roofing contractor about your insurance coverage. Contractors who work with insurance companies regularly should be able to help you decipher your policy.

Some Roofing Contractors Offer Financing Options

Installing a new roof is certainly a major investment, and it can be tough to shoulder the cost when your insurance policy won’t cover it. Not all roofing contractors offer in-house financing. In these cases, homeowners are expected to pay out of pocket or obtain a loan. Premiere Roofing & Gutters DOES offer in-house financing to make roof replacement as affordable and convenient as possible. Be sure to ask about your options!

Installing A New Roof? Contact The Pros In Hickory, NC

Premiere Roofing & Gutters specializes in residential roofing installation in North Carolina. We take the time to thoroughly address all of our customers’ questions and concerns, walking them through the process and explaining all of their options. Our 50-year warranty is unbeatable, and we also offer roof coatings and premium GAF HDZ shingles. We’ll work with your insurance company when installing a new roof, and unlike most roofers, we even offer in-house financing options. Contact us today to schedule a residential roof estimate in North Carolina, and be sure to ask us about our gutter installations, as well!

6 Reasons Why Spring Is The Best Time To Replace Your North Carolina Roof

March 21, 2022/in Residential Roofing Services /by Garron Lytton

Spring is the best time of year for residential roof replacement in North Carolina. Here are six reasons why:

Quicker scheduling – springtime is less hectic for most roofing companies than the ultra-busy summer months. This means we can probably get to your roof sooner.
Tax refunds – what better way to use your tax refund money than to invest it back into your house?
Savings on utility bills – high-quality modern roofing materials are far more energy-efficient than those in the past, meaning you can save on energy and cooling costs in the hot summer months.
Affordability – often, labor and materials are cheaper in the spring.
Ideal weather – once spring rolls around, the weather is ideal for roofing work, with warm temps, longer days, and less chance for delays caused by heavy rain and inclement conditions.
Good sense – last winter’s snow and ice may have inflicted serious damage on your roof, even if you haven’t noticed it yet. Finding and fixing these problems now can prevent endless and expensive headaches later on.

Of course, choosing the right roofing contractor is every bit as important as selecting the right season. That’s why it makes so much sense to get in touch with us here at Premiere Roofing & Gutters. Our 20+ years of experience, combined with our deep roots in the Tar Heel state, make us the residential roof contractor in North Carolina that locals trust.

Contact us today to schedule a free roof inspection and estimate. Below, we’ll take a closer look at the top 6 reasons to replace your roof in spring.

Reason #1: Less Wait Time In Spring

Summer is unquestionably the busiest season in the roofing industry, and customers can usually expect wait times before work on their roof can get started. In springtime, however, you can beat the high-demand period and get work done more promptly on your roof. Avoid long work delays by contacting your roofing contractor as early as possible.

Reason #2: It’s Tax Refund Season

There’s a reason why Americans rush to file their income taxes every year: most of them are expecting a refund. But how should you use that sudden windfall? Investing it in your roof will pay dividends for many years to come. In fact, modern roofing is designed to last for at least 20 years, much longer if you opt for steel panels. What better way to spend the money?

Reason #3: Save Money On Utility Bills

A worn-out roof is not only a hazard to your home, it can also be brutal on your budget. That’s because older roofing materials lack the insulating and energy-efficient features of their modern counterparts.
You may be throwing away money each month on heating and cooling bills, when a new roof can help you keep that cash in your pocket where it belongs.

Reason # 4: Roofing Is More Affordable In Spring

Roofing prices increase in summer due to higher demand from customers and the fact that prices for roofing materials spiral upwards because supplies are dwindling. More work means higher overhead for roofers and more overtime paid to workers. These added expenses are shifted onto the customer. This is another reason to get your roof replaced now rather than later.

Reason #5: Spring Has The Ideal Weather For Roofing Work

Warmer temperatures, extended daylight hours, and less likelihood of long work delays caused by bad weather are all reasons that spring is the ideal time to have roof work done.

Reason # 6: Prevent Last Winter From Coming Back To Haunt You

The cold season can be murder on a residential roof, even here in North Carolina. Frosty winds, ice dams, and snowstorms are all too common in our area. In fact, you may already have noticed problems such as loose or missing shingles scattered around your yard. The best time to address these problems is sooner rather than later.

Leading The Way When It Comes To North Carolina Roofing Repair

If you are considering residential roofing replacement in North Carolina, please contact our friendly, experienced professionals for a free roof inspection and price quote. The earlier you get in touch, the better chance that we can get to your repair or replacement work promptly, before the high-demand summer season.

Get in touch with us today to schedule a complimentary residential roof estimate in North Carolina from one of our experts. You’ll soon have all the facts and details you need to decide which next steps you want to take.

6 Benefits Of Installing A New Roof

March 7, 2022/in Residential Roofing Services /by Garron Lytton

The average lifespan of a shingle roof is about 20 years, although this is often shortened in warmer climates. A metal roof’s lifespan can be considerably longer, but it won’t last forever. If you think it might be time for an upgrade, you can look forward to many benefits of a new roof. These include better energy efficiency, curb appeal, resale value, and many others.

Improves Your Home’s Energy Efficiency

Going green is more important now than ever, both for your wallet and for the planet. When looking to improve their home’s energy efficiency, many homeowners think about replacing their appliances or HVAC systems with more efficient units. But did you know that a new roof can significantly improve your home’s energy efficiency? It’s one of the lesser known benefits of a new roof. Older roofs were built with less energy-efficient roofing materials. The newer roofing materials are substantially more effective at preventing heat transfer. This means your home naturally stays cooler in the summer and warmer in the winter.

Enhances Curb Appeal

You take pride in your home. Why would you want curling shingles or rusted metal roofing panels to detract from your home’s appearance? If your roof is older, chances are it’s starting to show its age. Upgrade your roof to give your home a cosmetic makeover.

Increases Resale Value

The benefits of a new roof include financial perks. Savvy home buyers know that homes with new roofs are worth considerably more than homes with old roofs. By installing a new roof, you can increase your home’s value by thousands.

Protects Your Home From Further Damage

A damaged roof won’t always result in leaks right away. Unfortunately, if you don’t repair or replace your roof quickly, the damage will always get worse. The next time a storm blows through town, you could find yourself looking at considerable water damage in your home. Would you rather replace your roof now, or replace your carpets, drywall, electrical wiring, and personal possessions along with your roof later?

Maintains Your Insurance Coverage

Beyond its impact on the home itself, the benefits of a new roof extend to your homeowners’ insurance. If your roof is 20 years or older, your insurance company may restrict coverage or not cover it at all. Upgrading to a new roof will restore your homeowners’ insurance coverage.

Restores Your Warranty Coverage

If your roof is older, chances are it’s long past its warranty coverage. Upgrading to a new roof installation will give you a new warranty. This protects you financially, and also offers better peace of mind.

Protect Your North Carolina Home With A New Roof Today

Premiere Roofing & Gutters is a leading residential roofing contractor in North Carolina, with a solid reputation and a long track record of satisfied customers. Based in Hickory, NC, we proudly offer our high-quality and reliable residential roofing installation in North Carolina towns surrounding our region—from Charlotte to Wilmington to Blowing Rock and beyond.

Fill out our quick and easy contact form or call us today to request a free roof inspection. If your roof requires replacement, we’ll also provide a free residential roof estimate in North Carolina. Our experienced roofing crew works on all types of roofs and specializes in ensuring their exceptional durability.

4 Signs You Need a New Roof

March 1, 2022/in Residential Roofing Services /by Garron Lytton

Sometimes the signs that you need a new roof are obvious, such as when your home sustains major storm damage. Other times the signs may be subtle, and homeowners may not be sure how many more years they can get out of their roof before having to replace it. If you aren’t quite sure whether you need a new roof installation just yet, consider scheduling a free roof inspection with the trustworthy professionals at Premiere Roofing & Gutters. Our experienced roofers will look for warning signs such as those below.

A new roof installation is an investment in your home. After you schedule a residential roofing installation in North Carolina, you can look forward to an upgraded look for your home, better curb appeal, and higher home value—not to mention the fact that your new roof will protect your home from damage for many years to come. Here are common signs to look for when you suspect your roof is on its last legs:

Roof Leaks

It’s never supposed to rain indoors. When it does, there’s something wrong with your roof. Roof leaks can happen for a number of reasons. Sometimes, the damage to the roof is inflicted quickly, such as during a powerful storm. In other cases, the damage can develop gradually over time. If your roof is older, the roofing materials have likely grown weaker. This increases the chances that water can seep in. It may be possible to repair one or two small areas of damage. However, if large areas of roofing materials have been damaged or you have multiple, persistent leaks, then it’s time for a new residential roof.

Aging Shingles

If you have a shingle roof, one easy-to-spot warning sign is damaged shingles. Shingles should always lay flat on the roof. If they are curling up or buckling, or if they are cracked or otherwise damaged, it’s time for a new roof. Similarly, check your gutters and downspouts for the presence of large quantities of shingle granules. If your roof is shedding granules, it’s toward the end of its life.

Sagging Roof

A sagging roof is a major warning sign. Water damage is one common cause of a droopy roof. However, a roof can also begin to sag simply due to age. Over time, the roofing materials can begin to settle, eventually getting to the point at which the sagging is clearly visible from the ground. If your roof is starting to sag, you need to schedule a new roof installation ASAP.

Shingle Discoloration

These days, shingles come in many different colors, and architectural shingles are particularly aesthetically appealing. Yet, shingles can become discolored over time. If you notice any dark streaks, this could indicate algae damage. You can also check the inside of your home for discoloration that can indicate water damage. Periodically, examine the ceilings to see if any discoloration is present.

Similarly, if you have an attic, go up there to check for discoloration that can indicate water damage. You can also turn the light off and examine the ceiling. If you see daylight shining through, you’ve got a problem and it’s time to schedule a residential roof installation.

Schedule A Free Roof Inspection Today

Premiere Roofing & Gutters provides world-class quality roofing services in Blowing Rock, Wilkesboro, Wilmington, and the surrounding areas. When you choose our crew for your roof installation, you can rest assured the job will get done right the first time. We pride ourselves on integrity and honesty. As a leading residential roofing contractor in North Carolina, we will do a thorough inspection and let you know if your roof requires replacement or if it can get by with repairs. Call today or fill out the easy contact form to request a free residential roof estimate in North Carolina.

Asphalt Shingles vs. Metal Roofs – Which is Better?

February 28, 2022/in Residential Roofing Services /by Garron Lytton

Whether you’re building your dream house or replacing an existing roof structure, it’s important to understand the pros and cons of modern-day roofing materials like asphalt shingles and metal.

Consider the differences between asphalt shingles vs. metal roofing in terms of cost, durability, maintenance, appearance, and energy efficiency so that you can make an informed decision about this long-term investment.

Metal shingles vs. asphalt roof – which is right for you?

As a leading provider of residential roofing in North Carolina, we’ve created a practical guide to help you understand the advantages and drawbacks of metal roofing and asphalt shingles.

Metal Roofing: Advantages

Zinc, aluminum, steel, and copper are the four types of metal used for residential roofing. Metal is lightweight, corrosion-resistant, comes in a variety of designs, and has many options for finishes.

Consider some of these key benefits of residential metal roofing in North Carolina:

Durability: Metal roofs can withstand harsh weather conditions and have a lifespan of 40-80+ years
Appearance: There are formats, designs, and finishes of metal roofs to suit almost every style. Metal roofs can be manufactured to mimic the look of asphalt shingles or real wood.
Energy efficiency: Metal roofs reflect UV rays and heat away from your building. These insulating qualities keep you cooler in the summer and warm during fall and winter.
Low maintenance: Metals roofs are resistant to the elements and require very little maintenance.
Better resale value: Praised for their longevity and energy efficiency, metal roofs can actually increase home resale values.
Lower insurance premiums: Insurance companies tend to favor metal roofing systems because they are less likely to be damaged by fires, hail, or hurricane-force winds.

Cons of Metal Roofing

Upfront Cost: If your budget is tight, be warned that installing a metal roof comes with a higher upfront cost than asphalt shingles. While the investment is more significant, homeowners will not have to deal with costly replacements and may even qualify for tax credits.
More difficult to repair: Metal roofing can get dented and is more difficult to repair than asphalt shingles because of how the panels are connected.

Asphalt Shingles: Pros and Cons

It’s estimated that some 70 percent of U.S. homes are built with asphalt shingle roofing. This traditional material is a top-selling product for a good reason, but it also has its pros and cons.

Appearance: asphalt shingles are available in a number of colors and textures and are now made to look like wood shakes, slate, and tile– giving homeowners a nice array of options.
Low upfront costs: asphalt shingles are less expensive than metal roofing, and they are also much cheaper to install.
Easier to repair: asphalt shingle roofing is easier to install and repair than metal roofing
Heat absorption: This is great in colder weather but a disadvantage when the temperatures rise.
Less durable: when comparing roofing shingles vs. metal for durability, the latter wins. Traditional asphalt will last up to 20 years, while GAF asphalt roofing is covered by a 50-year limited lifetime warranty.
Vulnerable to weather damage: asphalt shingles are more easily damaged by hail, wind, rain, and snow.
Will not impact resale value: conventional asphalt shingles will not increase a home’s resale value

As you can see, both roofing materials have benefits and potential drawbacks. Ultimately, the decision between an asphalt roof vs. metal will come down to your budget, aesthetic preferences, and durability requirements.

Contact Us at Premiere Roofing & Gutters

If you’re local to Hickory, Boone, or anywhere in Catawba County, don’t hesitate to contact Premiere Roofing & Gutters for your North Carolina residential roofing needs. Fill out the contact form or give us a call for a free roof estimate.

7 Best Roofing Materials for a Flat Roof

February 21, 2022/in Commercial Roofing Services /by Garron Lytton

The best flat roof systems may include built-up roofs, coatings, EPDM, metal, PVC, roll roofing, or TPO. However, there is no single right answer to– which flat roof materials work best for a commercial structure. Instead, it depends on a variety of individual factors, such as: what type of look you want, what the rooms below are used for, how long you need the roof to last, and how much you’re willing to invest in your commercial property.

What is the Best Flat Roof Material?

Common commercial flat roof types include the following:

Built-up

Built-up roofs (BURs) layer up asphalt or hot tar topped with rocks or gravel. A strong shield with tight seals– a built-up five-layer roof can last 25 years and is less prone to damage from water, hail storms, or fire.

Pros: Built-up roofs are made to withstand the elements and protect your structure for years to come.

Cons: It is quite heavy, so you’ll need an underlying structure that can handle the pressure. BURs are also more labor-intensive to install and costlier to repair than other types of flat roofs.

Coatings

Several coatings may be applied to commercial flat roofs, including acrylic, asphalt emulsions, chemical solvents, polyurethane, or silicone—but generally speaking, these coatings are quick to install and affordable. Yet, they must also be replaced more often.

Pros: Coatings can be highly reflective, UV resistant, clean, and easy to apply.

Cons: Many coatings do not fare well with pooling water. Some carry a strong odor when first applied and begin losing their protective nature after two to four years.

EPDM

EPDM (ethylene propylene diene terpolymer) is a common commercial application made from black synthetic rubber. Used in other applications as a bulletproof material, its extreme strength lasts 30 to 50 years.

Pros: Unlike white membranes, black EPDM rooftops won’t show dirt and can withstand temperature extremes. This type of installation is easy to repair and more affordable than many types of flat roofing systems.

Cons: EPDM can absorb heat, so it’s most suitable for smaller storage buildings than working spaces. Risks of seam breakage and roll shrinkage increase with larger industrial EPDM installs, so TPO roofing may be preferred in these cases. It also looks akin to weather stripping on a car door, so not the most beautiful roof on the market.

TPO

TPO—short for thermoplastic polyolefin—is a single-ply white membrane. While it’s not as durable as EPDM, you can get 25 years from a TPO roof as long as it’s installed properly.

Pros: Reflective in nature, TPO is a new and popular option for flat roofs, as it keeps the rooms below cooler. The laminated surface prevents algae or fungal buildup, so you won’t have to power-wash, making it relatively low maintenance. The material is also lightweight and well-suited to older structures.

Cons: If you can see the roof from another window, you may notice white gets dirtier quicker. Slightly more expensive than tar and gravel roofing, it also is not as durable in extreme weather conditions. TPO repairs require a heat welder and professional expertise. As it’s a relatively new material, the performance can vary from manufacturer to manufacturer.

Metal

Standing seam metal flat roof systems mechanically lock sheets of metal together, allowing for expansion and contraction– while providing an extremely durable protective layer to your commercial property. With proper insulation, a metal roof system can last 30-50 years.

Pros: Metal roofs are among the most aesthetically pleasing, offering a number of color options.

Cons: Metal is also one of the most expensive materials, though the longevity could make it a worthwhile investment if you plan to hang onto your commercial real estate long-term.

PVC

Polyvinyl chloride (PVC) roofing is a single-ply white material often used over offices, as its reflective color keeps the room below cool. Like TPO, a properly installed PVC roof should last 20-30 years.

Pros: A PVC flat roof installation is very similar to a TPO install, except that PVC is a more flexible material that has been around longer. It is similarly reflective to reduce cooling costs and is resistant to algae or bacterial growth from temporary ponding. White is most common, but darker shades exist.

Cons: PVC is slightly more expensive per square foot than TPO, though labor costs are the same. Removing the old roofing requires more labor and care to prevent puncture-related leaks. In addition, the manufacture of this roofing type releases toxic dioxin into the air, so it’s not the most eco-friendly option if your business engages in values-based investments.

Roll Roofing

Developed in the 1960s, roll roofing—otherwise known as modified bitumen or “mod bit”—involves an asphalt-based flat roof material with special polymers added for performance and pliability. The smooth or granular rolls can be hot or cold-applied or self-adhered. An expert-installed roll can last up to 20 years.

Pros: Commercial roll roofing is budget-friendly, energy-efficient, and durable for its lifespan. Most commercial businesses choose mod bit for the price point alone, but the color variations are as varied as composite shingle roofs.

Cons: The relatively short lifespan is the main drawback, with cracking and blistering possible after the first 10-15 years. Walking on the roof or a fallen branch can be enough to crack modified bitumen roofs. Leaks in the substrate can also be difficult to detect.

Looking for the Best Flat Roof Material for Your Business? Ask a Pro!

Contact Premiere Roofing to learn more about commercial flat roof installation in Hickory, Blowing Rock, or Charlotte, North Carolina. No matter which type of commercial flat roofing you prefer, you can count on the experienced professionals at Premiere Roofing to get it done and make it last.