Since 2010, Ohio has been exposed to weather conditions that have been declared to be federal weather disasters. No matter where you are, whether that be Canton, Cleveland, Columbus or Akron, every citizen has been exposed.
The damage that severe weather can cause can be incredibly expensive to fix, and one of the components of your commercial building that will probably be hit the hardest is your roof.
To make sure that your building and all of the items inside are safe during the inclement weather that might occur in Akron, OH, it’s imperative that you find the right roofing material that can withstand snow, ice, wind, rain, and hail.
Read on to discover what type of commercial roofing material you should consider purchasing.
Benefits of Metal Roofing Material
Metal is one of the most common roofing materials for commercial buildings. Metal has a lot of benefits for a commercial roof, which is why it’s so often used.
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Withstands a Wide Range of Weather Conditions
Living in Akron means that the material on the top of your building will be exposed to different types of weather. Metal is a great choice because it sheds rainwater easily, and it can also resist dents from hail and other debris that might be blowing in the wind.
Metal also has the ability to retain heat. In the winter, that means it’s effective at melting snow.
Since snow can add extra weight that could potentially lead to a roof collapse, having it melt away as quickly as possible is in your best interest.
Long Life Span
Metal roofing can last for up to 50 years, which is much longer than other commercial roofing options. This saves you a lot of money and reduces the amount of upkeep required for your commercial building.
Aesthetically Appealing
You have a lot of different options when it comes to metal roofing material.
Not only can you choose from the standard seam design, but you can also find metal materials that look like slate or shingles. You can also choose any color you want.
If you’re worried that getting metal for the top of your building means you’re stuck with shiny silver, you are mistaken. Metal roofing materials can add something unique and beautiful to your commercial building while also protecting it from the elements.
Disadvantages of a Metal Roof
No roofing material will be perfect, and metal roofing does come with a few disadvantages. Some of these include the following:
High Cost
Compared to other roofing materials, metal can cost two to three times more. However, the initial upfront cost can be offset by how long the metal will last. Since you won’t be looking to conduct a roof repair or roof replacement on metal as soon, making the investment now could wind up saving you in the future.
Loud Noises
When rain or hail hit the metal on the top of your building, you’re more than likely going to hear it.
If it’s absolutely necessary that your commercial space is as quiet as can be, then metal might not be the best option. You do have the option of adding more insulation to help with the noise, but this will increase the cost.
Potential Rust Problem
When dealing with water and moisture, there’s always the risk that rust will develop. To reduce the chances of this happening, you need to make sure that you are investing in high-quality metal for your roof system.
Benefits of Asphalt Roofing Material
One of the other common commercial roofing options is asphalt shingles. These have the ability to stand up to wind, hail, snow, ice and heavy rain. Some of the other benefits that come with choosing this roofing option include the following:
Affordability
If you are asking, how much does a new roof cost, this will depend on the type of material you get.
On average, the cost of metal is between $7.00 and $9.00 per square foot.
When it comes to asphalt shingles, these typically cost between $3.50 and $7.00 per square foot. This makes them quite a bit more affordable than getting metal.
Available in Different Colors
Black and brown are some of the most popular colors of asphalt shingles, and they can certainly give your business a professional look.
However, if you want to add something extra to the top of your building, it’s also possible to find asphalt shingles in green, blue or even red. You don’t have to settle for common or ordinary with this roofing material. You can make your business stand out by getting a different colored shingle.
Quick and Easy to Install
If you are asking how to shingle a roof, the answer is that it can be incredibly easy—especially if you have roofing experience. If not, then it’s probably best to leave this job to a professional.
This is especially true when it comes to your commercial building. A professional will be able to install the shingles correctly, keeping your building and everything inside safe.
If you decide to go with asphalt, this should be a quick installation process. This could mean that you are able to save some money on labor costs.
Disadvantages of an Asphalt Roof
While asphalt shingles have a lot going for them, there are some downsides to this roofing option as well. These include the following:
Lack of Durability
Asphalt shingles may be able to withstand a wide variety of weather conditions, but they won’t last as long as some of the other roofing options. On average, they last for about 20 years.
This is still a good stretch of time, but when compared to metal, it doesn’t reach the same longevity.
They are also susceptible to high winds. If the wind gets under any of the shingles, it could lift them up and rip them off.
Low Energy Efficiency
Compared to other roofing materials, asphalt shingles aren’t as energy-efficient of a roofing system as other options.
If you decide to get a lighter color, this could reduce the amount of heat that is absorbed by the building. Although, you may still find that this roofing option doesn’t keep your building as cool. This could result in higher utility bills in the summer.
Finding the Right Commercial Roofing Option in Akron, Ohio
We have been in business for 50 years and have more than 100 years of combined experience. We’ve seen just about everything the weather in Ohio can do, and we know how to install commercial roofs that can withstand it.
When it comes to your commercial roof, you want to choose a material that can stand up to the various weather conditions that hit Ohio.
To help with that process, contact us and work with a commercial roofing contractor that will give you the roof that your business deserves. Our service areas expand all over northeastern Ohio, including Akron.
