While sloped roofs are not as common as flat roofs among commercial buildings, they’re still a great choice for many different applications. Banks and historic commercial buildings, for example, will frequently have sloped roofs that provide a distinctive look. McDonald & Wetle offers a few different types of options for sloped roofs that come in a variety of aesthetic choices, making it easy to maintain the existing style of your building. If you’re looking to replace the sloped roofing of your commercial building, find out more about your options below.
Asphalt or Composition Shingles
This is the most common type of roofing material that you will find. Asphalt shingles are favored because of their easy installation and low price point. If you need to quickly have your roofing replaced, then asphalt will provide a solution in the shortest amount of time, barring other contingencies. This type of shingle is appropriate for roofs with a slope of 3-in-12 or greater. On average, they are expected to last between fifteen and forty years depending on the quality of materials and local climate.
These shingles are very versatile, with the ability to come in many different colors and shapes. The standard asphalt shingle design is the tree-tab strip shingle, which has cutouts along the lower edge to make one piece look like three separate sections. However, you can choose other types that add dimension and texture to your roof for a touch of style.
Clay Tiles
For a bolder design, consider roofing your building with clay tiles. They are available in several colors and shapes and are commonly used on buildings with Spanish or Mediterranean architecture. Clay tiles are more durable than asphalt and can last anywhere between 75 and 100 years. This durability is due to the fact that clay does not rot and is resistant to rain as well as freezing and thawing cycles. In addition, clay tiles have insulation abilities, helping your building maintain its internal temperature to help you save on energy costs. These tiles are heavy, so your roof must be strong enough to support them, and are best for 4-in-12 slopes or greater. They’re especially eye-popping on large slopes, like those found on churches, museums, and libraries. They do tend to cost more than shingles, so plan accordingly.
Natural Slate Tiles
Natural slate tiles are particularly popular with sloped roofs because of the distinctive texture that complements historical buildings like museums and courthouses. The tiles come in a variety of different colors, grains, and thicknesses to maintain the décor of the building, and they’re ideal for roofs with a slope of 4-in-12 or greater. These tiles do cost more, but the investment is well worth it, given that they can last over 100 years, which means you won’t have to worry about replacing them any time soon.
Their durability is due in part to their fire resistance and their low water absorption rate. This helps prevent damage from freezing and thawing cycles. Besides the long lifespan, natural slate tiles also provide value by being energy efficient. They have insulated properties that help keep your building cool in the summer and warm in the winter so you can lower your energy bills.
Choose the Right Roofing for Your Building
You will have several options available when you are looking to install or replace the sloped roofing on your building. Consult with the commercial roofing experts at McDonald & Wetle to learn more about the possibilities and see what best fits your needs. Contact our office in either Seattle or Portland to get started.